Remembrance Sunday 2021

Community Gathers to Remember

The Caterham School community, including parents, Old Caterhamians and friends of the school gathered to remember the fallen on Sunday 14 November. It was wonderful to welcome back to school parents and guests to take part in this important market in the school year. The CCF led the service with an impeccable parade.

Recognition must go to musicians and singers who took part in the Remembrance Service. The musical elements bring poignancy and depth to this most important occasion and this year included the introduction of Bag Pipes, played superbly by Mr Chris Sinclair.  Coupled with the sound of the distant drums, the Hymn ‘Amazing Grace’ signalled the start of the service accompanied by the Wind Orchestra. The Wind Orchestra was honoured to accompany the 150 strong parade of cadets with a March by Holst. The fantastic Trumpet Fanfare performed the Last Post- the sound echoed hauntingly across Harestone Valley.

During the Service, Chamber Choir and ETS sing the moving anthem ‘Do Not Stand At My Grave and Weep’ by Howard Goodall in a moving and expressive performance. The service was followed by the annual choral Recital of Reflection and Contemplation in the Wilberforce Hall. Pieces by Tavener, Tallis and Purcell were included in this most beautiful performance attended by parents, families and many Old Caterhamians.

Remembrance Sunday Lunch

We were delighted to welcome back to the School former staff who all taught for more than 20 years at the School and their wonderful contribution was acknowledged at this lunch, as they became Honorary OCs.

Tom Murphy, Catherine Shelmerdine (known as Catherine Clifton at school), Janet Maddren (known as Janet Moy at school), Andrew Taylor, Stuart Barber, Gordon Wilkinson all joined Old Cats and the CCF for lunch. Sadly Rick Mearkle and Howard Tuckett who also accepted honorary membership to the OCA this year were not able to attend the lunch this year.

See photos of the Remembrance Observations and lunch here…