Death of much-loved OH who wrote of Rousdon at war

by George Hayter

Ralph Harding (Baker 36-43) passed away peacefully at home on the night of 15 October 2025. He was 99 and had been so looking forward to his 100th birthday. A regular at the Sidmouth lunch and other events, Ralph had for many years been the oldest known OH — the honoured father of the club.

Invariably accompanied by his nephew Jeremy Harding (Chudleigh 64-69), Ralph’s enthusiasm, humour and friendly demeanour long delighted old boys and girls at gatherings.

He had been in Swindon Hospital with advanced and untreatable lung cancer. Determined to get home, he made that final journey to Devizes with the support of his two daughters, arriving just one day before he died.

Ralph Durbin Harding entered Allhallows in the summer term of 1936, aged just nine, initially joining the school’s junior section.

His parents were from Honiton but had moved 80 miles to Devizes to farm. “I grew anxious about leaving home for the first time,” he recalled (in an article on page 18 of the 2016 OH Magazine).

“I was also concerned about being worthy of upholding the Harding family name.” At Allhallows before him there had been seven Hardings, and two cousins. “I loved being at school in Honiton because all my relatives were living in the town.”

He excelled at rugby and boxing, earning his boxing colours in each of his final three years. He was a house prefect for two terms before leaving the school in 1943 at age 16.

Ralph remembered headmaster George Shallow coming into class in 1937 and announcing out of the blue that the school was going to uproot and leave Honiton.

Boys were used as labour in the exciting relocation to Rousdon, which was completed the following year. “Working parties were sent over to Rousdon to help remove debris from what were to become sports pitches, and to clear up around the buildings. The stables beneath the bell tower were being converted into classrooms.” Ralph was awed by the size of the clifftop estate, and its isolation compared to the school’s town centre position at Honiton.

His education was disrupted again a year later, when war was declared. “Three masters were called up, along with some boys over 18.” Because of his farming background, young Ralph was put in charge of 200 hens and was expected to double the school’s wartime egg ration.

And there were nocturnal observation shifts in the mansion’s tower, to warn of German bombers heading for Plymouth. “I found I was able to tell Dorniers and Heinkels apart, not by their outlines against the night sky, but by the different sounds of their engines.”

Ralph remained deeply connected to Allhallows and its legacy throughout his life and was devastated by the school’s closure in 1998. “I do not understand the reason why this had to happen to such a great school,” wrote Ralph, whose life was a testament to loyalty.

At a recent West Country Lunch, we recorded an interview where Ralph's Nephew, Jeremy Harding, asked Ralph about his time at Allhallows. You can see the interview HERE.

...

More than 30 OHs gathered in Sidmouth for lunch at the Victoria Hotel on 20 September, with some of their number having dinner at the Harbour Hotel the night before.



'The event was organised to celebrate the 50th anniversary of leaving Allhallows for the last time. That we could get something approaching half our year group together in one place is a testament to organiser John Wong’s efforts and persuasive powers, helped considerably by the attendance of five from Charton House: Jo (nee Grimwood), Rosie (Payne), Alison (Bailey), Jane (Booth) and Fiona (Darbishire).


At the lunch, we were entertained by a number of speeches: John Wong welcomed us all; Gavin Howard (Sh 70-75) told us about his career with the Royal Irish Rangers; Steve Dixon (V 70-75) gave us a hair raising account of his recently completed motorbike trip from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego; Steve de Wild reminisced amusingly and Andy Green gave us one of his famous poems (in the style of William McGonagall).


We were also honoured by the presence of Keith Moore, Allhallows’ last Headmaster.


The event was thoroughly enjoyed by all participants, and it’s hoped that we can meet again in two years' time.'

What a fantastic day it was for the Old Honitonians Golfing Society, who gathered on Thursday, 2nd October, for a wonderful afternoon of golf at the stunning Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club, nestled in the heart of the New Forest. 

Our group of enthusiastic OH golfers were welcomed with bacon rolls and refreshments before teeing off at 2:00 PM for an enjoyable 18-hole round. The autumn weather couldn’t have been better — calm, clear, and perfect for a great day on the course.

The event was made all the more special as players had the chance to experience the home course of OH Bryn Shorey, who was instrumental in helping showcase the very best that Brokenhurst Manor has to offer.

There was some fantastic play throughout the afternoon, with plenty of friendly competition and camaraderie on display — true OH spirit in full swing. 

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us for a brilliant day of golf, laughter, and shared memories, including:

Richard Heard, Paul Selway-Swift, Roddy Wakeford, Jeremy Page, Bryn Shorey, Roger Hopkins, and David Danskin — with special thanks to Charles Pipkin, who joined as a non-playing supporter.

Do keep an eye on our OH Events page for more fantastic OH Golfing Society meet-ups.

We’re delighted to share news of a new publication by Old Honitonian Richard Anderson (Middlemist, 1966–71), whose second book promises to strike a nostalgic and entertaining chord with anyone connected to Allhallows School and Rousdon.

“A History of Rousdon Mansion and Allhallows School - It’s Published!”

Richard recently got in touch to announce the release of his latest book, which he describes as “of interest to OHs generally”. The book is a personal and engaging look at Allhallows, enriched with anecdotes, memories, and reflections from former pupils.

“There is a chapter I love, which is a number of OHs have sent me short stories about an episode when they were at Rousdon,” Richard writes. “I have had to do a bit of editing to make it publishable!”

From humorous escapades to touching recollections, the stories create a vivid picture of life at Rousdon through the decades. Whether you were there in the ‘50s, ‘70s, or ‘90s, there will be something familiar, and perhaps even your own tale in print.

This book has been a labour of love, compiled over six months, with three weeks of intensive writing while on a cruise!

“I was able to spend three solid weeks on a cruise getting it all together,” Richard says. “I’ve also had to learn about websites and get help producing what you are about to see, so please bear with me!”

He’s even created a dedicated website where you can flick through pages, see if it sparks your interest, and place an order.

If you’re attending the upcoming West Country Lunch, Richard will be there, with copies in hand! 

Alongside the OH memories, the book includes a mix of personal insights and reflections, drawing from Richard’s wide range of interests and experiences. And if that’s not enough, book number three is already on the way — titled From Eva to Edwina — covering a variety of topics from Richard’s public talks, including:

• Eva Braun & Edwina Mountbatten

• Wallis Simpson & Christine Keeler

• Kensal Green Cemetery (where Richard is a catacombs guide!)

• His time in Northern Ireland

• A journey to Ukraine

• And even… “Hitler: A Gentleman?”

As Richard notes, “About 70% of the new OH book is general interest, and the stories you’ve written to me fill a whole chapter. There’s plenty to enjoy — and perhaps a little to be blackmailed with!”

How to Purchase a Copy

If you’d like to purchase a copy, it’s straightforward:

1. Visit www.richardanderson.uk

2. Click Contact to access the order form

3. Review the book online

4. Submit the form — and once payment is received, a copy will be sent to you

International shipping is available — Richard will let you know the postage cost if you're overseas.

Help Spread the Word!

If you know any other OHs — from any year — who would enjoy the book, please pass this on. Richard has written this with the entire OH community in mind, and it’s a wonderful way to reconnect with memories of Rousdon and the spirit of Allhallows.

Thank you, Richard, for capturing these fabulous stories and sharing them with us. We also look forward to interviewing you about the book and your stories in the future. We will see you at the West Country Lunch and wish you every success with the book (and book number three!).

What an incredible gathering for this year’s OH Clay Pigeon Shoot!

OHs and guests came together at the Purbeck Shooting School for a fantastic day of catching up and competitive shooting, full of friendly inter-house rivalry. Teams represented Baker, Chudleigh, Lillies, Middlemist, Stanton, and Venning, with a guest team from Millfield joining the action.

A huge thank you goes to Richard Clyst for his invaluable support and organisation, as well as for generously providing equipment and cartridges. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thanks also to Jim Rowe for his vital role in organising, chairing the event, and overseeing the prizegiving.

Attendees included:

• Jim Rowe

• Tim Salter

• Andrew Hughes

• Niel Dowsett

• Nick Taylor

• Claus Andersen

• Mark Turner

• Frederick Andersen

• Mark Sienesi

• Richard Clyst

• James Eyre and his two children

Well done to everyone for making it such a fun and competitive shoot! Venning claimed victory, with Lillies taking second place.

Special congratulations to Andrew Hughes, who won the trophy for Best Shot in the competition – well done, Andrew!

What a day! Thank you again to everyone who made it so enjoyable. We’re already looking forward to our next OH shooting event at The Tunnel Target Sports Centre on Saturday, 4th October.

You can find out more here.

🎯 Our OH Clay Pigeon Shoot returns this Saturday, 26th July.

This fabulous event is being held at the Purbeck Shooting School.

Meet us at 10:00 AM for breakfast before we head out for a fun and friendly shoot.

📍 Location details: Purbeck Shooting School, Puddletown Rd, Wareham BH20 7NG

It’s always a great day out, and we’d love to see as many of you there as possible!
 

As we look ahead to the rest of the year, there are plenty of exciting opportunities to reconnect with old friends and make new ones at our upcoming OH events.

Next up on the calendar: OH Clay Pigeon Shooting

📅 Saturday 26th July

🕙 10:00 AM

📍 The Purbeck Shooting School, Dorset

Whether you're a seasoned shot or just fancy a fun morning out, we’d love to see you there! Take a look at what else we’ve got planned for the months ahead in this video. 

A Truly Historic Gathering at Rousdon

What an unforgettable and historic event it was as we welcomed the largest number of OHs ever back to the Rousdon Estate for the Lyme Regis leg of the OH Golf this summer!

A magical evening filled with laughter, memories, and connection, the spirit of the OH community was truly alive.

A big thank again to Stephen White (Shallow 1981–1985) and his wife Marlene for hosting such an incredible event — your generosity and warmth made this gathering one to remember. And a special thanks to our OHGS President, David Danskin, for his dedication and leadership.

This video offers just a glimpse of the extraordinary atmosphere that evening.

OH Golfing Society: A Triumphant South West Golf Week

This week (17th - 20th June), OHs from across the country—and indeed, the globe—gathered for the much-anticipated OH Golfing Society South West Golf Week. It was a celebration of friendship, competition, and cherished tradition, beginning at Yeovil Golf Club with a friendly yet spirited match against the Fleet Air Arm Officers’ Association, and concluding at East Devon Golf Club, where OHs faced off against The Stand Club.

But it was Wednesday's event at Lyme Regis Golf Club that truly captured the spirit of the week. This special day marked the OH Golf Championship and saw the largest gathering of OHs to stay on the Rousdon Estate since the closure of our school in 1998—a truly historic moment.

The group was based at Coast House, a truly spectacular residence on the estate, nestled just beyond the walled garden. With breathtaking views and a setting full of nostalgia, Coast House provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable midweek celebration of both golf and old friendships.

A heartfelt thank you goes to OH Stephen White (Shallow 1981– 1985) and his wife Marlene, whose extraordinary organisation and warm hospitality made the event at Rousdon a sheer joy, with a private cef and team for the two evenings everyone was their, an amazing selection of fine wines and, of course, the best company—bringing people together and reminding us all why this club means so much.

There was laughter and storytelling, echoing the same energy and joy that filled the air during the much-loved OH Cricket Week. In fact, in a delightful and spontaneous twist, an impromptu game of cricket broke out on the lawn, a truly lovely moment.

From competitive fairways to nostalgic evenings, the week was a vibrant testament to what makes the OHGS so special.

Once again, a sincere thank you to Stephen and Marlene. It is deeply appreciated by all who attended.

A huge thank you must also go to our OHGS President, David Danskin, whose organisation of all the OH golfing events is absolutely fantastic and very much appreciated by all the members and the club.

The OHGS is such a big part of our club, and we look forward to a full write-up of the week and our other OH golfing events in the next edition of the OH Magazine.

You can see all the images in higher resolution here.

There are events… and then there are events to remember.

Last weekend’s Old Honitonians West Country Lunch, held at the beautiful Victoria Hotel in Sidmouth, certainly falls into the latter
category.

With nearly 60 Old Honitonians gathered for the occasion, the atmosphere was filled with warm reunions, shared stories, and plenty of laughter. As two OHs perfectly put it, “we thought it was the most enjoyable West Country lunch we’d been to.” Another attendee captured the spirit of the day by saying, “I caught up with two guys I hadn’t seen in over 50 years, and it was great!”

The lunch itself was delicious, with Roast Beef and Yorkshire pudding a 'hit' as usual and a particularly popular pudding was the Sticky Ginger sponge. Compliments were shared across the room!

A huge thank you goes to Duncan and his exceptional team at the Victoria Hotel for their service and hospitality throughout.

Reflections and Remembrance

A true highlight of the afternoon was a rousing and heartfelt address from OH legend Nigel French, who spoke with his typical humour and conviction about the club and his time and antics whilst at Allhallows. His words also honoured the recent VE Day commemorations and paid moving tribute to the OHs who gave their lives for the freedoms
we hold so dearly today. It was a powerful reminder of the strength and values of our community.

Stories, Smiles & A Surprise Twist

The room echoed with the sound of shared anecdotes and easy laughter — a testament to the enduring bonds formed at school and beyond. It was also a moment to recognise those who make
events like this possible. Huge thanks to Nigel French for his inspiring speech, Victoria Berry, for
her organisation, without which the lunch would not have
happened and David Richardson, the Club’s Treasurer, for all of his help with both financial side of the lunch and of course, the Club as a whole!

And then came the twist…

What started as a lovely afternoon lunch carried on well into the night, with several OHs making the most of a stay in Sidmouth. The post-lunch gathering turned into an unofficial “after-show
party” that went on until midnight, just in time to celebrate Nik Milner’s birthday in true OH
style. A very Happy Birthday, Nik – we’re so glad we could raise a glass (or two!) with you.

Finally, there were a number who couldn’t make it on the day, due to illness and other commitments, may we take this opportunity to say we hope you feel better soon and we will see you at another event in the future; a full list of 2025 events here and save the date for the 2026 West Country Lunch- May 9th!

See this and all OH events HERE.