On Sunday 6 July, around 185 Oakeshott OTs and their families, former parents, current parents and current pupils gathered on the Upper Hundred to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Oakeshott House. We were very fortunate to have John Bleakley, current Second Master and former housemaster present, as well as current housemaster, Graham Barnes. Unfortunately Paul Todd, Oakeshott's founding housemaster, was unable to attend at the last minute and was sadly missed. 

The visitors were greeted by a welcome party of Oakeshottians who had become OTs only the day before. The Headmaster, James Priory, Adrian Ballard (Director of the Tonbridge Society), Jess Watson Reynolds (former OH tutor), Sarah Merriman (PAS Relations Manager), Tara Biddle (OT Relations Manager) and Beverley Matthews (Archivist) were also on the Upper Hundred to welcome everyone to the event.

Guests were then treated to a coffee from the Cafe Bueno tuk tuk, before embarking on a trip down memory lane with tours of the School and their old house, led by current Oakeshott boys. 

Tours were followed by a drinks reception in the marquee. Whilst everyone was enjoying a glass of wine or Jim Nolan's (MH 81-86) wonderful craft beers and delicious local sparkling wine, James Priory gave a witty and informative speech about the history of the house.

A delicious hog roast followed, from Dukes Roasters, and guests were then able to enjoy a tub of local ice-cream whilst watching two teams of mixed ages battle it out on the cricket pitch. Sadly rain and lightening prevented the game finishing.

The afternoon was then spent mingling, catching up and sharing stories and Michael Bascom (OH 05-10) treated Beverley Matthews and the rest of the gathering to a wonderful acapella rendition of Somewhere Over the Sea.

Russell Harper, photographer, has shared his photos of the day with us, and you can view them via the gallery below (you will need to be signed up to Tonbridge Connect to access the gallery). 

It was wonderful to welcome so many back to School and reports are that everyone had an enjoyable day.