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Alan Parker Music Student from 1968 to 1971
Came to Bretton from a boys secondary
modern school in Doncaster with my then friend Allan
Morris. Both were instrumental players of a good
standard. I played Clarinet and Sax and Allan the
Euphonium. I came from a 'straight up and
down background' and found it quite difficult to get on
with some of the more 'sophisticated' characters that
came from co-ed schools and colleges. Immediately
took a shine to Wendy Fletcher, Janet Evington, Bob Cook
and Ann, the Women's main rep. Stayed in contact
with all except for Bob Cook. Lost contact with
Wendy and Janet after their weddings in 1970's (big
shame) Back in contact again with wonderful Ann
and her husband Richard again after the reunion 2007.
I played a lot of Hockey at Bretton
and this became a big part of my life after I left.
I ran the formal grace choir from 1969 until its end at
Christmas Formal dinner 1970. Composed about 30
graces and used some very fine ones from my talented
predecessor Arthur Lucas. Started the Bretton Big
Band in 1970 with a grant from the Student's Union.
This kept going for a few years and started again in
about 1980. Heard it again on Sunday night before
the dinner for the 'younger years' at the 2007 reunion.
Much improved from our humble attempts. Sang
solos in Carmina Burana, and at the Leeds institute
recital of the Faure Requiem in York Minster .
Member of Jim Wild's A Cappella Choir, Wind band, and
Orchestra. Got introduced to other music by
influences from the art and Drama students, in
particular Steve Channing, who had a room below me in
King's Head. Got introduced to folk music by many
very talented Kennel Block performers. Loved to
listen to Marcia Corfield. Came second a couple of
times in the Beer Race to a gardener from the hall, who
I never managed to catch. Inspired by Roger
Burrell, who still inspires me now. Did anyone
else see how good he looked at the 2007 reunion?
An image would be appreciated!
Taught at Castleford High School, Don
Valley High until 75. Then worked as Youth Tutor
at Knottingley high until 85. Moved to Scotland
after building a boat. Had a business selling
commercial fishing gear. Taught at Tobermory High
for a while. Stopped teaching in 1990 (too bloody
old) Back to fishing gear,
self
catering properties, and a bit of IT work. Got
married and divorced. Got a son called Tom. Live very happily with
my partner Jackie on the wonderful Isle of Mull in the
town of Tobermory
(Balamory if you have young kids)
Love to hear from all those who were
at Bretton. Discounts for anyone coming to stay at
our cottages, provided they are up for a good blether
(chat) about Bretton and have some images for this
website.
Bretton Hall was an inspiration to my
life. I made it a point to be first one back after
the holidays and last one to leave. That was also
the case at the reunion. Couldn't really say
goodbye to anyone as I was too full of emotion at the
occasion. I feel very very strongly that all this
energy and history should not fade into oblivion.
This website is my contribution to a great bunch of
people and a magnificent location. Love you all!
Till next time!
Alan
Tigh Faire,
Erray Road
Tobermory,
Isle of Mull
PA75 6PS
01688 302075
tobermory at mull.com |
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