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Not an old boy but a new boy who lives in the Abbey(converted 1985). The porn/sex studios some of you report were under the control of one Jean (pronounced Gene as he was a bloke!)A (in) famous photographer who fell foul of the Obscene Publications Act when he has studios in Soho! When he decamped to Ashurst Wood he promptly formed the 'Ashurst Wood Academy of Arts'. He was a hell of a character1 He bought the school when the Abbey school went bust around 1969. The lady reported selling eggs out of the lodge house was either his mother or his wife. He used to travel round the village in a pony and trap wearing a big sheep skin overcoat with nothing on underneath, except his wellington boots! I am involved with the local historians and am currently writing up the history of the Abbey, which has been known as The Yews, Yewhurst, Ashurst Wood Abbey. Any photos old mags. memories will all be gratefully received. If anyone is interested I will send them copies of the history,for a small fee! Look forward to hearing from some of you old boys.
regards,
Keith
It sounds a lot more fun that when I was there (1952-5)
Hi - I am probably a contemporary of yours (Michael), although I do not recall your name. One name that I do remember - because it's often in the news, is that of Michael (and Pieter?) Morpurgo - who has achieved quite a bit of fame. I have never been back to the Abbey - do you know if the current owners allow visitors to the house/grounds?
Many years back, whilst in England briefly, I decided to make a short detour and show my wife my old Prep' school. Jean Straker was there, and invited us in. After a very short while he asked what I did, and when I replied that I was a painter, he immediately suggested I hold painting courses there. I think he must have been desperate.
I remember a John Banks, dayboy from Lingfield, and Richard Hunter and his brother David who died while riding his bike. Also remember Michael Cole, MacIntosh, Hellyer, Geddes, Keith and John Major, Kinsella, John Glass, Vaughn and Maskell.Not to mention most of the staff in the 50's.
Hello Godwin. I've never been known as John... always Roger. Yes, those you mention were all good friends. Michael Cole, and I, have re-visited The Abbey together a couple of times, and will probably do so again. Otherwise I don't see, or am in contact with, any Old Abbians; other than John Glasse, who lives in New Zealand. It's a shame that more don't use this site. Any news of Richard Hunter? Best wishes, R.
Hi John,
I was wondering: back in the history of the Abbey/Yewhurst(1880/90), there was a family shown as being at Yewhurst / The Abbey with your family name. Do you think they may have been relatives? I believe there was a naval connection.
It would be good to hear from you.
Anyone out there remember the white bull falling into the cesspit and the fire brigade being called upon to get him out?! He was 'revived' with a gallon of beer and taken to Beeches Farm but sadly died later!
Regards,
Keith
Hello Keith Andrews
Very interested to read your posts. I was at The Abbey School at the same time as Roger Banks, circa 1953 - 1960.
I have some Abbey memorabilia which include magazines, photographs, cap, tie, blazer, scarf, swimming trunks with red, green & white stars sewn on, etc. I would be happy to photograph these items to make a contribution to your planned book project. Drop me a line on mikecole@dircon.co.uk and copy your email onto this forum ?
Michael Cole
bravenet.com