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Understanding Environmental Ergonomics Solutions to surviving an extreme planet Innovative Manufacturing How Research Centres are supporting UK industries Please welcome on stage A nostalgic look back at Loughborough’s history of live music alumni magazine issue 24 autumn 2011

Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

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Page 1: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Understanding Environmental

ErgonomicsSolutions to surviving an

extreme planet

Innovative ManufacturingHow Research Centres are

supporting UK industries

Please welcome on stage

A nostalgic look back at Loughborough’s history

of live music

alumnimagazine

issue 24 autumn 2011

Page 2: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

0816

Dear Alumni...A special welcome and congratulations to our newest alumni who graduated this year.

It has been a busy few months here. We’ve held a range of events and it has been really encouraging to see ever-increasing numbers of you in attendance. We thoroughly enjoyed the annual Alumni Reunion Weekend in September, welcoming back to campus the classes of 1971/72, 1981/82 and 1986/87 – our thanks go to everyone who attended.

Our second Alumni Challenge Weekend, held in May, was a tremendous success. Over 200 alumni returned to campus to take on the current student sports teams. We hope this will become the biggest university sporting alumni event in the country. The next Alumni Challenge Weekend is scheduled for May 2012. You can sign up now.

We have been delighted with how Loughborough Sporting Club has taken off: over 600 of you have signed up so far to participate in the events on offer. It has certainly been a busy start with the official launch at the House of Lords in March hosted by Lord Coe, and the unveiling, in May, of the Walk of Fame after which guests attended the Loughborough International Athletics match.

Friends groups for a number of sports have started to become active. We had a great turn out for the Henley Regatta, and eight teams took part in the first Loughborough Sporting Club Golf Day on 29 July at Longcliffe Golf Club.

The Loughborough Sporting Club gives you the best opportunity to reconnect with your former team mates and catch up with old friends. Details on how to join are included in this issue.

The Alumni BOND (Business Opportunities for Networking and Development) series is developing really well, providing you with the opportunity to network and enjoy talks from high profile guest speakers.

Our Alumni Coffee Mornings provide retired alumni and former staff with the perfect environment to keep in touch and enjoy a range of activities. Please visit the alumni website for our full Coffee Morning programme for 2011/12.

Lufbra in London, our regular social event, continues to attract large numbers. If you would like to attend or are interested in setting up a similar event in other city locations in the UK, we would love to hear from you.

Our International Alumni Chapters continue to keep alumni in touch with each other overseas. We are delighted to announce that five new Chapters have been established since the last issue of the magazine.

More information on all of these initiatives – as well as how to register for events – is available in this magazine and on our website.

Finally, I would like to thank Marilyn Johnson for her amazing contribution to the launch and development of the Alumni Association over the past 17 years. Marilyn has been an exemplary ambassador for Loughborough, developing links and relationships with alumni overseas and throughout the UK. We look forward to enjoying her continued involvement with the Alumni Association in the future and send her our very best wishes on her retirement.

I do hope you all enjoy the latest issue of the Alumni Magazine.

Alumni Association, Hazlerigg, Loughborough University, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK Tel: +44 (0)1509 228497 Fax: +44 (0)1509 223983 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni

The views in this magazine are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Editor or the University.

Editor: Matthew Inglesant, Development and Alumni Relations Office. Publisher: Loughborough University. Design and Production: Design and Print Services, Loughborough University

Printed by Sterling. This publication has been produced under the FSC Chain of Custody by a printer certified with IS014001 environmental management system and printed using low V.O.C. (Volatile Organic compounds) processes and vegetable based inks.

With thanks to everyone who contributed to this issue.

T46433 DPS Oct11

RegularsNews from Loughborough 4Alumni news 14Events at Loughborough 22Global networks 25Loughborough sport 26Life after Loughborough 30

FeaturesPresident’s welcome 1Mark Sismey-Durrant talks about his time in office to date and some of the exciting initiatives that have developed during that time.

Innovative Manufacturing Research Centres 2-3How Loughborough is helping drive UK manufacturing.

Cover story 12-13How research at Loughborough is exploring the interaction between humans and their physical environment, providing solutions to the many problems faced.

Appearing tonight 18-19We take a nostalgic look through Loughborough’s live music archives, profiling some of the artists to have performed here.

My Life after Loughborough 28-29Bob Wilson talks about a life in football, broadcasting and his part in establishing the Willow Foundation.

28

Jim Overend Head of Alumni Relations

Page 3: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

An update from theAlumni Association PresidentWelcome from the Alumni Association President

I visited campus during Fresher’s Week as I prepared this update for alumni and friends. It was unseasonably warm and sunny in Loughborough and the Freshers were becoming oriented to the Best Student Experience in the UK, as voted by all British students for the fifth consecutive year. Recall the best features of your years at Loughborough, combine them with the outstanding improvements that have been made and the student experience just keeps getting better and better.

My term as Alumni President is passing as quickly as the Loughborough experience will for the incoming Freshers. I first reported my objectives as President two years ago in this publication:

● To build more effective links with alumni

● To ensure a mutually rewarding relationship between the University and alumni

● To assist the University in achieving its aims to sustain its leading position among British universities for research, teaching, and overall student experience

I am pleased to report that we have made considerable progress. The Alumni Association has created opportunities for alumni of all ages to participate in events from networking, lectures, dinners and reunions. In fact, I attended my own reunion in September. It was my task to speak briefly at dinner and I was delighted to have my facts and figures from the different eras represented duly amplified and brought to life from word perfect enthusiastic renditions of the songs of the times, including 1944!

It was great fun and I hope that when you receive notice of your reunion you will contact your friends and return to campus. Whether you come alone or in a group, Alumni Association staff ensure that there are activities for a variety of interests—departmental visits and lectures, campus tours, down-time for socialising, and outstanding accommodation on, or near, campus.

An innovative and exciting alumni initiative is the Loughborough Sporting Club. Available to all alumni, it offers access to events and information regarding the many sports available at Loughborough as well as updates on the progress of the University teams. Details of the first inductees to the Loughborough Sport Hall of Fame, along with photos and biographies, can be viewed in the Sir John Beckwith Building foyer and the newly refreshed JC’s in the Students’ Union – and yes, John Cooper was amongst the first group of inductees.

Elections for members of the Alumni Advisory Board took place at the Annual General Meeting held during September’s reunion weekend. I am delighted to welcome Gemma Godfrey, Chris Hallam, Mark Jackson, Ralph Powell and Wei Shen to the Board. Full details about the Alumni Advisory Board, including how to stand for election are given in this edition of the magazine (page 19).

It is indeed an honour and a pleasure to represent you by serving as the President of your Alumni Association. I hope to see you at a University function in the coming year.

All new alumni websiteFollowing months of planning, consultation and design, we are delighted to announce that the new alumni website was officially launched on 30 September.

The site has an improved look, with easier navigation and new functionality. We have improved content for our events pages, with footage from previous functions and an online booking system to secure your place.

You can have your say on our alumni forum, or contact former classmates through our search facility – maybe organise a long overdue reunion in the process.

We have also included electronic versions of the alumni magazine, plus links to our social media sites.

Have a look today by visiting

www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni

Mark Sismey-Durrant (Banking and Finance, 1981) President of the Alumni Association

Page 4: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Intelligent AutomationIn partnership with colleagues at Cranfield University and industrial partners including Rolls-Royce and Airbus, Professor Mike Jackson and his team are developing advanced automation for high value manufacturing. Until now, these industries have used limited automation because of the highly skilled nature of the finishing, inspection and assembly work inherent in the manufacturing process. Work at the Centre will look at improving synergy between humans and their automated counterparts: new systems will deliver the precision of computer-controlled machinery with the adaptability of a human operator, with round the clock capability and 100 per cent quality performance at a reasonable cost and operational speed.

Research focusInitial research projects will focus on four key themes: understanding human contribution, virtual modelling, close location and cooperation of the human-automation system, and intelligent manufacturing machines.

Research outputs will feed into the £40m Manufacturing Technology Centre in nearby Ansty which has been designed to bridge the gap between university research and the commercial market.

Centre leaderProfessor Mike Jackson

FundingEPSRC £4.8m Industrial partners £3.34m

Loughborough is playing a central role in supporting the UK manufacturing sector. To remain competitive and to retain its position as an important component of the UK’s economy in a challenging global environment, it is important that the manufacturing sector can access and adopt new technologies. The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the most significant funder of manufacturing research in the UK, has created a network of Innovative Manufacturing Research Centres to maximise the impact of new research for the UK, supporting existing industries, and importantly, opening up new industries and markets in growth areas. Loughborough is leading three of these important initiatives and playing a significant role as a partner in a further two – more than any other university.

Additive ManufacturingSometimes described as ‘3D printing’, Additive Manufacturing (AM) has matured to the stage where it is now routinely used for the production of component parts directly from a 3D CAD model in a range of industry sectors spanning specialist lighting, customised hearing aids and automotive / aerospace components. Until now, this technology has focused on producing products in single materials that are then combined with other components to realise the finished product. This new Centre will further investigate these technologies and associated design systems for printing multi-material, multi-functional parts so that entire systems can be printed in a single operation.

Research focusThe focus of the research will be to investigate the printing of electrical, optical and potentially biological interconnects within a component as it is being additively manufactured. The Centre will investigate new multi-functional manufacturing processes based on jetting, powders and solid-state approaches to enable the production of complex, optimised electro-optical / biological devices in one operation.

The Centre will also explore the potential for ‘scaling down’ where the prospect of the direct manufacture of micro-level devices will be explored. A key aspect of the research to be undertaken will concern the underpinning design systems that will generate the complex 3D data required for the ‘printers’.

Centre leaderProfessor Richard Hague

FundingEPSRC £5.2mIndustrial partners £3.2m

Continuous Manufacturing and CrystallisationThis multidisciplinary Centre will conduct research into crystals and powders and the challenges presented by their industrial manufacture, properties and use. It will develop new continuous manufacturing approaches for products such as medicines, foodstuffs, dyes, pigments and nano-materials as an alternative to traditional batch methods, leading to more consistent levels of quality, lower costs, reduced energy requirements and more sustainable production.

Research focusLoughborough’s contribution to the project, which is being led overall by the University of Strathclyde, will be in the area of robust control of continuous crystallisation processes, using state-of-the-art process analytical technologies. A combination of small scale experimental investigations and numerical modelling will be used to provide engineering designs that are amenable to adoption in commercial plants and robust to scale-up industrial volume production.

Centre leaderLead university: University of Strathclyde Loughborough leaders: Professor Chris Reilly and Professor Zoltan Nagy

FundingEPSRC £4.9m Industrial partners £1.8m

Innovative engineering at Loughborough is driving UK manufacturing

Page 5: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Regenerative MedicineExperts at Loughborough’s Centre for Biological Engineering are working on new technologies to improve product development and scale-up manufacturing processes for regenerative medicine (RM) so that it can be used to effectively treat patients sooner. RM covers a range of therapies designed to enable damaged, diseased or defective skin, bone and other tissue to work normally again. It will have a huge impact on tackling chronic, debilitating conditions like arthritis and heart disease that not only have a terrible effect on people’s lives, but also have a significant economic impact.

Research focusCellular therapies can be used to treat cancers of the blood. Current methods of extracting and isolating cells to use in treatment are costly and inefficient. One of the Centre’s major projects aims to create enabling technologies to both increase the efficacy and reduce the costs of these methods. Patients, physicians and the healthcare system will all benefit.

Centre leaderProfessor David Williams

FundingEPSRC £5.3mIndustrial partners £3m

Industrial SustainabilityLoughborough’s Centre for Sustainable Manufacturing and Reuse / Recycling Technologies (SMART) is playing a vital role as the new national EPSRC Centre on Industrial Sustainability. It addresses three challenging issues: eco-efficiency, eco-factories and sustainable industrial systems.

Research focusSMART is leading three projects under the banner of ‘eco-factories’. The projects will look at the design of the factories of the future, minimising the use of energy, water and materials in manufacturing, and extending the functionality of existing manufacturing decision support systems to incorporate environmental considerations such as CO2 levels and the cost associated with the generation of waste.

Industrial partners include IBM, Toyota, General Motors, Unilever, Adnams, Marks & Spencer and the Carbon Trust. Overall the Centre is lead by the University of Cambridge and Loughborough is a significant academic partner.

Centre leaderLead university: University of Cambridge Loughborough leader: Shahin Rahimifard

Funding EPSRC £4.59m

The award of these Centres is a significant endorsement of the excellent quality of engineering research that Loughborough maintains across many disciplines. It is also further evidence of Loughborough’s longstanding ability to conduct research that matters – a fundamental characteristic of Loughborough’s work throughout its long history. This research will help to shape our future economy and have a lasting and significant impact on our lives and the lives of future generations.

This article has been adapted from the article ‘Innovative Engineering’ which first appeared in Issue 70 of News@lboro.

Page 6: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

New Chief Operating Officer appointedFollowing a national selection process, Caroline Walker has been appointed as the University’s new Chief Operating Officer, replacing Will Spinks who took up post with Manchester University earlier this year.

Caroline, who holds a Loughborough MBA, is already widely known within the University, having served as Director of Finance since June 2008 and Acting Chief Operating Officer since Will’s departure.

Caroline formally took up post in August.

news from loughboroughUniversity appoints new Provost Professor Chris Linton officially took up the role of Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor in August, replacing Professor Neil Halliwell who has retired after more than 20 years at Loughborough.

A Professor of Mathematics, Chris joined Loughborough in 1993. He led the School of Mathematics for six years before becoming Dean of the Faculty of Science two years ago.

Chris has been heavily involved with the design and implementation of the new School structure introduced in August 2011, and will oversee the transition and help drive its success.

“My main job initially is to make sure the new structure works,” he explained. “To have designed something that will ultimately make the University more robust and to be in a position to make sure it delivers is hugely important.

“It’s exciting to have this new challenge and be working with a new team. In this role, I need to know about all sorts of things, many of them non-academic. The environment for HE is changing rapidly and every day something different comes up, so you never know what you’ll be dealing with.”

University launches Distinguished Alumni AwardsTo build a society of its most accomplished alumni, the University launched its Distinguished Alumni Awards at the 35th Annual Water Engineering Development Centre (WEDC) International Conference, held at the University in July.

The Awards recognise the significant achievement of alumni in their chosen field and complement the existing Honorary Degree Awards, made each year in recognition of the outstanding contribution made by prominent figures in all areas of society, from business to the arts.

Alumni from WEDC were chosen as the first recipients of the Award to mark the first time the International Conference has taken place in the UK in 34 years.

In future, all Schools across the University will have the opportunity to nominate exceptional alumni for an award, which will be submitted and approved by an awards committee. Criteria for selection includes alumni who have shown inspiration, merit, achievement or commitment in a particular role, profession or field of work; or who have made a contribution to society, education, scholarship, knowledge or research, the University and its advancement or the local community.

The Awards also supplement the University’s creation of a Sporting Hall of Fame which saw its first 21 inductees inaugurated in a

ceremony that took place at the Loughborough International Athletics match in May.

The recipients of the first Distinguished Alumni Awards are:● Quratul-Ain

Bakhteari (PhD in Geography, 1987) for her vision and dedication to multi-cultural peace and development

● Sottie Bomukama (MSc in Water and Waste Engineering, 1983) in recognition of his instrumental work reforming and transforming the water sector in Uganda

● Dermot Carty (MSc in Water and Environmental Management, 1990) for his outstanding contribution to the development of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people

● Hamad Masoud Hamad (MSc in Water and Waste Engineering, 1984) in recognition for his outstanding commitment and achievements in engineering and infrastructure in Tanzania

● Melvin Tebbutt (MSc in Water and Waste Engineering, 1995) for his outstanding practical contribution and commitment to humanitarian relief

Full details of Loughborough’s distinguished alumni, are available at www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/distinguished

Picture left to right: Andy Cotton, Director of WEDC; Sottie Bomukama; Melvin Tebbutt; Quratul-Ain Bakhteari; Hamad Masoud Hamad; Dermot Carty and Ken Parsons, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)

Page 7: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

news from loughborough | 05

‘Best wishes on your retirement, Marilyn!’As many of you will be aware, after 17 years of exceptional service, Marilyn Johnson announced her retirement from the Alumni Office in July. Marilyn wanted to thank and say goodbye to you all. Here, she looks back on some fantastic experiences and the wonderful people she has met.

“I started working for the Guild of Past Students, alongside Professor Tony Evans, in 1994. Having done sterling work over the years, the Guild volunteers were running out of funds and momentum, so they asked the University to take on its management and running costs. The University agreed, Steve Gorton was elected President, and the Guild became the Alumni Association.

“Since then, I have become good friends with alumni volunteers involved in the Guild of Past Students and, more recently, the Alumni Association. These dear friends – Peter Davenport, Max Maxwell, Noel Brewer, the late Bob Ashby, Martin Catton and Mike Charleston – have long given me their support and encouragement and I would like to offer them my sincere thanks. I would also like to mention Victor Hugo, now in his 90s, and his wife, Jean, who have also been great friends to me.

“Many of our alumni come from overseas and, during my career, I had the pleasure of meeting many of you. In particular, I would like to mention Nelia and Mike Daniel from Bermuda; Wilfred Chan, Lau Teng Chuan, Peter Goh, the late Tan Eng Yoon and John Yong from Singapore; Sam and Mina Sussman, and Brian and Maureen Young from Canada – not forgetting those who attended the amazing Lagos reunion in 2005.

“I would also like to thank the students whose support and hard work launched the first Chinese Alumni Association, and its fabulous inaugural reunion on a riverboat in Shanghai. It was fantastic to be involved with so many young, enthusiastic alumni.

“My most poignant memory is of the Honorary Bachelor Degree Ceremonies held in 2009. They were truly amazing occasions – I still feel emotional when I think of them. It was humbling to meet so many remarkable alumni who said that their Loughborough years were the best times of their lives, and that they were thrilled and proud to be awarded their honorary degrees.

“Another enduring memory is of Anton Freud – grandson of the psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud – who studied at Loughborough during and just after the Second World War. As Editor of the Alumni Magazine I was lucky enough to interview him at his home in 2003, and spent a wonderful afternoon in the company of this remarkable man who regaled me with many, many stories.

Be part of Loughborough’s Olympic endeavoursPreparations for TeamGB and Japan are well under way, and the University is currently recruiting over 1,000 volunteers to assist in delivering an exceptional service for these athletes on Campus ahead of London 2012.

Our volunteering programme, Medal Makers, has been awarded the 2012 Inspire Mark and registration is now open until February 2012 for those wishing to support our Olympic efforts.

Our Volunteer Medal Makers Ambassadors – from the University and wider community – are helping us with the recruitment and development of volunteers. We have been inundated, and are well on the way to achieving our 1,000 volunteer target.

If you would like to be a Medal Maker, please contact a member of our Medal Makers Team at [email protected] or visit www.lboro.ac.uk/london2012

“One of his most daring adventures started somewhat dramatically during a maths exam: he was arrested for being an enemy alien. Following his arrest he was deported to Australia, but was soon returned to the UK and conscripted into the dangerous Special Operations Executive for the remainder of the war. He then served with the War Crimes Investigation Unit, after which he returned to Loughborough to study Chemical Engineering. Sadly, Anton passed away in 2004, but his grandson continued the family tradition, following him to Loughborough.

“Before I finish, I would like to thank all of my Loughborough colleagues, particularly Lyndsay, Matt and Jim. It was a pleasure to work with you all, and I shall miss everyone dearly. However, I do plan to drop in for the monthly Coffee Mornings, just to see what it’s like “on the other side”!

“I am so proud of my Loughborough years. It has been the best job in the world and given me the opportunity to meet so many interesting people. Former Vice-Chancellor Sir David Wallace once said to me, referring to the events I organised and attended, “Marilyn, you really are the University’s good-time girl!”

“He was right. I’ve certainly had the best time at Loughborough.”

An alumni reception will be held for Marilyn in February 2012. If you are interested in attending, please contact us at [email protected]

Page 8: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

06 | news from loughborough

Past and present Olympians open landmark sport facilitySportPark is the state-of-the-art home to many of the country’s top national governing bodies including swimming, volleyball, and wheelchair basketball. They share the space with a number of national sports partners including Sport England and the Youth Sport Trust.

The £15m complex was funded by the University with support from Sport England, the East Midlands Development Agency, Leicestershire County Council and Charnwood Borough Council.

During the ceremony, Sport England Chair, Richard Lewis, said:

“SportPark provides the perfect environment for national governing bodies and other sports deliverers to work alongside one another to get more people playing sport. As both a funding partner and resident, Sport England is pleased to be part of a sporting hub that is providing state-of-the-art sport facilities to the Midlands.”

Tim Garfield, Deputy Director for Sport at Loughborough University added:

“SportPark resident bodies employ over 1,000 people nationwide and there are nearly 400 jobs based here at SportPark. In and around Loughborough, there are over 700 posts with nationally significant roles in sport. Loughborough is a thriving and growing knowledge economy for sport.

“We have national performance centres based here in a range of sports and they are all now pushing the boundaries in the use of science and technology in the quest for ultimate performance.

“Loughborough is at the heart of sport in this country and SportPark is building on this. Increasingly, we are demonstrating that putting heads and hearts together is a powerful force for innovation and change. SportPark is at the very epicentre of that strategy.”

Loughborough University is the official preparation camp headquarters for Team GB and Japan. Find out more about the University’s activities in the build up to the London 2012 Games at www.lboro.ac.uk/london2012

Happy 30th Birthday, Pilkington LibraryThis year, the Pilkington Library celebrates its 30th Anniversary with a series of events and activities.

Although officially opened by Lord Pilkington, the University’s first Chancellor, on 19 December 1980, the building’s first full academic year was 1981.

As part of the celebrations, library users – past and present – were given the opportunity to add their memories of the Library to a video, now available on You Tube, as well as to ad-Lib, the Library’s blog. The archives were scoured for memorabilia and photographs, dating back to 1981, to create an entertaining exhibition in the Library foyer. Staff and students were also invited to enter a photography competition to capture the essence of the iconic building, and Illustration student Rebecca Hall was appointed Artist in Residence.

Alumni were treated to a rare insight into the Library’s history at September’s Coffee Morning. Following a tour of the Anniversary Exhibition, University Archivist – Jenny Clark – addressed the group with an account of how Pilkington has evolved over the years to accommodate new technological developments.

If you would like to submit your memories of the Pilkington Library, please contact Charlotte Greasley at [email protected] or on 01509 222361.

For details on library services available to alumni, visit www.lboro.ac.uk/library/services/alumni.html

With the start of the London 2012 Games fast approaching, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games Chairman and alumnus Lord Sebastian Coe, returned to Loughborough to open a landmark building for sport.

Former Olympian Lord Coe was joined, in June, by current Olympian and world diving champion, Tom Daley, to officially open SportPark.

FACTBOX● The Pilkington Library covers 7,777 square metres over three floors

● It has 900 study places, including 140 workstations

● It holds over 500,000 books, 90,000 bound serials and offers access to approximately 19,000 e-journals

Page 9: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

news from loughborough | 07

Become a Loughborough Career ContactWe are looking for alumni to join our Career Contacts database which offers advice to current students, staff and alumni. Alumni Career Contacts can help by providing:

● advice on getting a job in their area of work ● a presentation to students or graduates about their occupation ● a short-term or one-year work placement ● an unpaid work-shadowing opportunity ● a research project for a postgraduate student ● advice to prospective international students

By joining the database and volunteering your involvement in other career development activities at Loughborough, there is also scope for you to gain personal and professional development, such as mentoring, honing presentation and networking skills and even designing skills sessions.

Show us your profile!The CEC Team has published a series of 80 Graduates Profiles for alumni from the Classes of 2009 and 2010. These success stories convey positive messages to current and prospective students about the range of careers graduates have entered and the paths they have taken to get there. The resource will be expanded to include profiles of postgraduates, undergraduates who have moved on to further study and those further on in their career.

The profiles can be viewed in the Resources section of the CEC website at www.careers.lboro.ac.uk

Advertise your vacancies for FREELoughborough attracts a wide range of employers who want to market their companies and opportunities to current students. If you are involved in recruitment and would like to harness the talent of Loughborough’s future graduates, you can advertise your vacancies for free at Loughborough. If you would be interested in raising the profile of your company or business on campus in other ways, the CEC Employer Liaison Team can offer a number of suggestions for doing just that.

To find out more about the initiatives described in this article or if you wish to contribute in some other way, visit the CEC website at www.careers.lboro.ac.uk

Alternatively, if you think you could benefit from information or advice from the CEC team, either as a recruiter or for your own personal career development, contact Gill Clarke on 01509 222052 or by email at [email protected].

Careers and Employability Centre

Contact your future...

...through Alumni Career ContactsKeen to support current students, Loughborough graduates

offer free advice to help you find the job of your dreams. Find out more in Advice and Guidance on www.careers.lboro.ac.uk

Are you getting the most from Loughborough’s Careers and Employability Centre?The University’s Careers and Employability Centre (CEC) supports students and alumni in the pursuit of their career goals in more ways than ever before. We provide information, advice and guidance online, in person and by telephone throughout the year. Some of our most successful initiatives have been made possible by the involvement of Loughborough alumni and their continuing enthusiasm to give something back to the University.

There are a number of ways in which alumni can benefit and provide help to the next generation of graduates. Both home and international alumni have a great deal to offer by sharing their experiences, career success and through mentoring.

Alumnus Steph Lui (Automotive

Engineering, 2010) works

for Aston Martin as a

Graduate Engineer in Vehicle

Aerodynamics: “Without the

work experience placements

I enjoyed at Loughborough

University, I would not have

got the job I have today.

Competition for graduate jobs

with the top employers is tough

and you need to make yourself

stand out from the crowd.”

Page 10: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

GradGift 2011 is paving the way to a better Students’ UnionThe Development and Alumni Relations Office in conjunction with the Students’ Union launched the second annual GradGift programme in May. This year GradGift is raising money to re-landscape the lawn area in front of the Students’ Union, improving the Student Experience for all.

To encourage support for the scheme any donor giving £20.11 or over has the opportunity to have their name engraved on a brick that will be laid in the courtyard. There has been excellent support from graduating students, staff and alumni with over 400 bricks purchased so far.

Building work is expected to take up to 8-10 weeks, and we hope that the development will be completed by the start of the summer term 2012.

The campaign is currently on-going, so if you would like to leave your mark on Lufbra and get your own brick, please visit www.gradgift.co.uk

Alternatively, please contact Kerry McCollum at [email protected]

08 | news from loughborough

Alumni in advisory roleThe recently formed School of Business and Economics has recruited a number of alumni to take part in its new Strategic Advisory Board.

The Board will provide an invaluable external perspective on the strategic direction of the School to ensure that its activities are informed by best practice and remain relevant to the communities the School serves.

Board members are drawn from leading figures in business and policy communities. Acting as both national and international ambassadors, they will harness opportunities for corporate engagement and identify avenues of financial support to facilitate the continuing growth and success of the School.

Ian Stopps CBE, Chair of the new Board commented: “This is an exciting time for Business and Economics education at Loughborough and I am delighted to be involved with the new Advisory Board. As a former student, I now have an opportunity to give something back to the University that gave my career such a great start.”

The Advisory Board will meet three times a year – on campus and in London – to discuss issues around the development of teaching and research programmes, and provide a critical but supportive external perspective.

Professor Angus Laing, Dean of the School, reiterated the importance of alumni involvement: “We have alumni working in senior positions in business all over the world, and I am really delighted that we now have some of that experience and expertise available to advise and support us.”

For more details please visit the School of Business and Economics website at www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/sbe/about/advisoryboard.html

Alumnus sets Design Week brief for studentsEach year, the Loughborough Design School invites local and international companies to get involved in Design Week.

Participating companies are asked to set real-life product design briefs for students to respond to, giving them invaluable experience of work in a commercial environment whilst enabling companies to benefit from some fresh thinking on current problems impacting their business.

This year, Loughborough alumnus and businessman Taha Ebrahim (Production Engineering and Management, 1984) took part in the challenge, tasking students with a design brief for the Housewares division of the Hong Kong based Abdoolally Ebrahim Group. Taha is now the fifth generation of his family to run AEG.

Taha was delighted to take part in Design Week: “The quality of the students’ work was very impressive with a number of students bringing forward viable concepts. AEG will certainly be participating in Design Week again next year.”

Dean of the Design School, Professor Hodgson commented: “Design Week is a great opportunity for our students to gain very

valuable experience of working with companies and, this year, working with AEG has led to one of our students being offered a fantastic opportunity to complete a year’s work placement in Hong Kong. This is just the sort of partnership that the Design School is keen to develop.”

Page 11: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

news from loughborough | 09

Management education tailored for professionals

www.lboro.ac.uk/sbeSchool of Business and EconomicsLoughborough UniversityT: 01509 223140 E: [email protected]

What we can offer you and your businessn Accredited Certificate, Diploma and Masters qualificationsn Bespoke company training and short coursesn Part-time delivery for minimum disruption to your businessn Work-based assessments for immediate return on investment

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At Loughborough, we have the experience to empower you or your business colleagues to drive business performance, whatever the economic climate. We develop leaders with the skills and vision to make a lasting positive impact – from line managers through to director level.

Inaugural Loughborough Students’ Rag Alumni Dinner The inaugural annual Loughborough Students’ Rag Alumni Dinner was held on 6 May, coinciding with the Alumni Challenge weekend, Freefest and the Rag Beerfest.

The Dinner was held in Hazlerigg’s beautiful Council Chambers which, one guest reminded us, played host to the National Rag Conference many years ago.

Around 70 alumni from across the decades were present to catch up with old friends, pore over photo archives and hear about Loughborough Rag’s progress. Alumni in attendance dated from 1989 through to the present – current Rag volunteers were thrilled to meet and compare notes with their predecessors.

Guests enjoyed speeches from Rag Administrator Jane Turner and 2010/11 Rag Chair, Maddy Buckley, as well as a fascinating and entertaining presentation by Paul Rushton and Richard Turner, Rag Chairs 1994/96 and 1989/90 respectively. The accompanying images and video montage charting Rag’s history as far back as the 1960s were supplied by alumni – and featured the much-loved Rag Double Decker.

The evening was kindly supported by the Alumni Association with Vicki Unwin attending on their behalf to unveil the Rag Honours Board, now on display in the Rag Office. It features the names of Rag Chairs and their fundraising totals, dating back to the first sabbatical officer in 1979.

An excellent opportunity for old friends to catch up and for new connections to be made, the evening celebrated our shared passion for Loughborough Rag and its outstanding charity work over the years.

For more information about Rag and the annual Rag Alumni Dinner, email [email protected] or join the Loughborough Students’ Rag Alumni Group on Facebook.

Page 12: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Tana Utley

Pehin Mohammad Yasmin Umar

10 | news from loughborough

Loughborough experts to reinvent the toilet A multi-disciplinary team, led by Professor M Sohail (pictured), has won a prestigious £250,000 grant to reinvent the toilet.

The team are delighted to have won the award in what was a very tough international competition organised by The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Indeed, Loughborough is one of only eight institutions worldwide – and the only British university – to receive a grant in the Reinvent the Toilet Challenge.

Loughborough’s experts are tasked with designing an innovative toilet which will convert human waste into useful material for energy generation or soil conditioning – including water for hand-washing and other ablutions – but will not dispose of waste hazardous to human and environmental health. The toilet must also be able to function in both single-family and community environments and should cost just pennies a day per person to run.

Lack of adequate sanitation facilities affects around 40% of the world’s population, with 1.1 billion people worldwide defecating outdoors. Poor sanitation is the major cause of diarrheal disease and the second largest killer of children under five, claiming around 1.5 million lives each year.

Commenting on the award, Professor M Sohail said: “We are extremely delighted to have won. The challenge will be to make the toilet more user-friendly and accessible, environmentally friendly, socially acceptable and financially affordable on a global scale.”

For more information about Loughborough’s Reinvent the Toilet Challenge, please visit www.lboro.ac.uk/news/reinvent-the-toilet

During this summer’s Graduation ceremonies, the University was proud to confer honorary degrees upon 11 distinguished people in recognition of their outstanding contributions to academia, the arts, business, industry, society and sport.

We are delighted to announce the University’s newest Honorary Graduates.

In recognition for his outstanding contribution to broadcasting and journalism, and to Leicestershire and England cricket, English broadcaster and former professional cricketer, Jonathan Agnew, was made an Honorary Doctor of Letters (HonDLitt).

The Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive of CMC Markets, Peter Cruddas, was made an Honorary Doctor of the University (HonDUniv) for his innovation and outstanding achievement in the world of finance, and exceptional philanthropy.

Maureen Duffy – author, playwright and poet; President of Honour of the British Copyright Council; Fellow of King’s College London; and Vice-President of the Royal Society of Literature – was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters (HonDLitt) in recognition of her outstanding contribution to literature and equality law reform.

For his outstanding and sustained support of the Business School for more than 10 years, Manny Fontenla-Novoa – Chief Executive Officer of the Thomas Cook Group – became an Honorary Doctor of the University (HonDUniv).

Professor Ghauth Jasmon – Vice-Chancellor of The University of Malaya – was made an Honorary Doctor of Technology (HonDTech) in recognition of his contribution to the field of Electrical Power Engineering and achievements as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Malaya.

In recognition of his contribution to education, scholarship, knowledge and research, Professor Shige Peng – Professor of Mathematics, Member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Director of Mathematics Institute and Dean of School of Economics at Shandong University – was made an Honorary Doctor of Science (HonDSc).

For her outstanding contribution to promoting environmental awareness, Dame Fiona Reynolds – Director General of The National Trust – received an Honorary Doctor of Science (HonDSc).

Minister of Energy, Brunei Darussalam, Pehin Datu Colonel (Rtd) Seri Paduka Awg. Mohammad Yasmin Bin Haji Umar, received an Honorary Doctor of Technology (HonDTech) in recognition of his outstanding role in developing the Energy Strategy of Brunei.

Lord Robert Winston – Professor of Science and Society and Emeritus Professor of Fertility Studies at Imperial College London – received an Honorary Doctor of Science (HonDSc) for his outstanding contribution to Science.

Tana Utley – Chief Technology Officer at Caterpillar Inc – was made an Honorary Doctor of Technology (HonDTech) for her outstanding contribution to the leadership of engineering in a multi-national company.

Honorary graduates 2011

Professor Ghauth Jasmon

Jonathan Philip Agnew Peter Andrew Cruddas

Maureen Duffy Manny Fontenla-Novoa

Lord Robert Winston

Dame Fiona Reynolds

Professor Shige Peng

Page 13: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

news from loughborough | 11

Celebrating Rutherford’s 50th Birthday

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In 2012, Rutherford Hall celebrates its 50th Anniversary as a student residence.

To mark this momentous occasion, the Hall Warden team and current Student Committee are asking alumni to help track down former Rutherfordians to join in the celebrations – and help to compile a history of the much-loved hall of residence.

Having consulted the University archive and Hall documents, Hall Warden Doctor Matthew Frost (Civil Engineering, 1992) found disappointingly little about life in Rutherford. With the help of the Loughborough University Development Trust, he hopes to address this by introducing three honours boards for the Hall dining room.

One of the boards will list the names of Hall Chairs dating back to 1962. Unfortunately, there are gaps in the roll call: if you have the name and contact details of any former Rutherford Hall Chair, please get in touch.

A second board will be combined with a trophy to create an annual award to commemorate the student who has made the biggest contribution to hall life.

The third and final board will mark key milestones in the Hall’s history, including successful years in inter-mural sport; details of alumni who have

taken up posts with the Students’ Union or University; and those who have achieved great things following graduation. Once again, your help is needed to compile this record.

In addition to contributing to the three boards, you are encouraged to submit photographs and memorabilia of your time at Rutherford to an exhibition of hall life through the years.

To celebrate in true Rutherford style, you are invited to an Anniversary Party on Campus in May 2012.

If you can to contribute to the history of Rutherford or would like to attend the Anniversary Party, please contact Doctor Matthew Frost at [email protected]

Page 14: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

managing the

forces of natureThe University’s Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre (EERC) is playing a vital role in trying to understand how we are affected by our environment and how we can improve the space around us to benefit everyone.New laboratories and facilities provide our academics and research staff with the perfect platform to increase their knowledge and create exciting, new technologies to enable society to continue to interact in an increasingly complex and unpredictable environment.

Earlier this year, we met up with Professor George Havenith to learn more about the Centre and discover what environmental ergonomics is all about.

He explained that ergonomics is “the study of optimising the interface between human beings, and the designed objects and environments they interact with”, and that “environmental ergonomics concentrates specifically on the interaction between the user and his or her physical environment.”

Professor Havenith and his co-workers consider ways in which we can adapt to the conditions we live and work in, through the implementation of research, design and technology.

“We work in four key areas: the thermal environment – from comfortable temperatures to extreme heat and cold; noise and vibration exposure; and lighting and vision. We also explore healthcare ergonomics and patient safety.”

In spring 2010, a full refurbishment of laboratory facilities at EERC was completed, providing an advanced research environment. Professor Havenith and his team are delighted with the upgrade.

The new Environmental Stressor Suite facilitates the recreation of the environmental conditions of most working and living environments across the world. It comprises a bespoke patient safety laboratory for the simulation of ambulances and treatment

rooms; and two climate chambers which can expose subjects to extremes of temperature (-30ºC to +50ºC), humidity (10% to 95%), altitude (up to 7,000m), noise, and lighting.

Researchers also have access to two sophisticated thermal manikins to evaluate the effects on the human body of varying thermal conditions in, for example, office, factory and domestic environments. A multi-axis vibration rig allows them to simulate whole body motion stimulation, whilst the cutting-edge light and vision laboratories support 3-D research, as well as studies across virtual reality, visual discomfort and dark adaptation.

The EERC has excellent links with a wide range of industries, spanning transport, clothing, defence, healthcare, and computing. The Centre also enjoys close links with other internationally renowned research groups and universities across the UK and abroad.

“This investment by the University has brought our facilities to an internationally leading level. We are all very excited about the potential of our future work and our ability to develop our international position of research excellence.”

To find out more about the work of the Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre, please visit www.lboro.ac.uk/eerc

Page 15: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

“We work in four key areas: the thermal environment – from comfortable

temperatures to extreme heat and cold; noise and vibration exposure; and lighting

and vision. We also explore healthcare ergonomics and patient safety.”

Page 16: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Keep on runningLoughborough alumnus Sean Allen (Politics with Communications/Media, 2004) is taking the Eddie Izzard approach to long-distance running this year, attempting to run 21 marathons in three weeks. Unlike Izzard, who ran 43 marathons

in 51 days, Sean’s incredible attempt will be completed on consecutive days.

Tagging himself the “Running Teacher Man” on both his blog and website, the 28-year-old primary school teacher from Wales started his attempt in late September and will hopefully have successfully achieved his goal as you read this.

Two of the marathons are scheduled to take place in Loughborough, including one to be completed around the University’s athletics track.

The inspiration for the attempt was close friend and fellow alumnus, Andrew Mills, who tragically lost his long battle with brain tumours earlier this year. The pair met at Loughborough, and Andrew supported Sean through some tough times, particularly during their early days as Freshers.

Sean wanted to do something in memory of his friend whilst also helping to support Andrew’s widow, Anna, and son, Alexander. Money raised by Sean’s herculean endeavour will be put into a community trust account, to provide for Alexander in later life.

To follow Sean’s progress, visit his blog at www.runningteacherman.com

alumni newsWest End success for Loughborough’s Jon Breaking into London’s West End musical circuit is notoriously difficult – so we are delighted to introduce an alumnus who has managed to do just that, landing a role in one of the biggest musicals currently showing in London’s West End.

Jon Stokes (Drama, 1998) – who works under the stage name Jon Boydon – plays guitarist Tommy DeVito in the hit show Jersey Boys. The show tells the often dark and troubled story of the remarkable rise to fame of 1960s pop legends Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, featuring many of the band’s greatest hits, including “Can’t take my eyes off you”, “Sherry”’ and “Oh, what a night”.

Having started his career in several fringe theatre shows in his hometown of Birmingham, Jon made his West End debut in 2001 in the world premiere of All You Need Is Love – a journey through the songs of Lennon and McCartney. He followed this with a part in We Will Rock You, the musical tribute to the rock giants Queen.

Whilst appearing in We Will Rock You, Jon was invited to audition for Jersey Boys:

“The casting director of Jersey Boys came to watch me with a couple of roles in mind, and called my agent to say she would like me to audition for the show. I was on holiday at the time, so spent time sitting on the beach, learning the script before flying back at midnight to attend an audition the next morning.”

Enduring a gruelling eight audition schedule, culminating in a performance for the American production team, Jon finally landed the role of Tommy DeVito.

The show is a massive success, enjoyed by over four million people worldwide. Accounting for this, Jon says:

“People go to the show not really knowing what to expect. Whilst many may know the music, the fascinating story of the band’s life and rise to fame is less well known. It’s quite a dark tale: music provided a viable alternative to a life in the army or the mob. I think it’s a mix of the two elements – the music and the story – that makes it so popular. Having worked in stage musicals for 10 years, I can say without hesitation it is by far the best thing I’ve been involved in. The script is so sharp and well-crafted.”

Whilst at Loughborough, Jon was joint recipient of the University Drama Prize along with friend Rachel Hogg. The award recognised the pair’s commitment to the Drama Department and their efforts to increase

interaction between the different year groups on their course. With the prize money they formed a theatre company, Alternative Division, which they ran together for a year before pursuing new interests.

Of his time at Loughborough, Jon commented:

“I really enjoyed it. I lived in Butler Court for three years and was heavily involved in campus life – I was Hall Chair and Freshers’ Rep. My course, unusually academic for a drama programme, gave me a great grounding for my career, covering all areas of theatre work including lighting and set design. They were the best years of my life.”

What’s next for Jon?

“I’m contracted to Jersey Boys until March 2012. I feel that I have reached a high point in stage musicals and would like to try TV – given the opportunity. Not soap opera though, I’m not a fan. I’d love to be involved in a contemporary cutting-edge drama or something like Camelot – the perfect excuse to grow a beard and wave a sword around.”

Jersey Boys is currently showing at the Prince Edward Theatre, London. Further details can be found by visiting www.jerseyboyslondon.com

Jon, second from right, with other ‘Jersey Boys’ cast members

Page 17: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Commenting on the victory, a delighted Ali Lindsay said:

“The money will help us to invest heavily in marketing and concentrate on raising awareness in the student market, whilst hopefully enabling us to expand our team. But more than that, winning this competition gives us a credibility and confidence that leaves us feeling really excited about the future.”

To find out more, visit RateMyPlacement.co.uk

alumni news | 15

The Atlantic Four: Rowing Challenge

Recruitment specialists scoop Barclays awardRMP Enterprise Limited, student recruitment, placement and internship specialists – the brainchild of Loughborough alumni Ali Lindsay (Accountancy and Financial Management, 2007), Chris Wickson (Management Science, 2007) and Oliver Sidwell (Geography and Management, 2007) – were celebrating after being named one of the nine regional winners of Barclays Take One Small Step competition in July.

The competition, aimed at budding entrepreneurs, received a total of 5,000 entries. Having secured a place amongst the final 27 on the judges’ shortlist, RMP won the public vote for the London area.

The company, which provides a list of blue-chip clients with a range of tools and services to help them engage with and recruit talented students in the UK, has enjoyed uninterrupted commercial success, having doubled their revenue in each of their first four years in business. In the same period, the team has expanded from the three founders to eleven full-time staff.

They put their success down to recognising the shifting focus amongst employers from simply recruiting graduates to earlier engagement and recruitment through work placements and internships.

Winning their regional final, RMP received a cash prize of £50,000 plus free support and advice from Barclays to ensure the business continues to succeed.

Steve Backley OBE with, l-r, Ali Lindsay, Oliver Sidwell and Chris Wickson

In December, Loughborough alumni Hugo Turner and Ross Turner (Industrial Design and Technology, 2011), along with current students Adam Wolley and Greg Symondson will attempt to row across the Atlantic Ocean in the world’s toughest rowing race in aid of Spinal Research, setting the world record for the youngest four man crew ever to have done so.

The Atlantic Four are busy juggling their time between their studies, training for the event and some considerable fund raising efforts.

Since its launch in 1997, just over 200 people have completed the punishing Woodvale Atlantic

Rowing Race – far fewer than the intrepid adventurers who have reached the summit of Everest or experienced the weightlessness of space.

Starting in the Spanish Canary Islands and finishing in the Caribbean island of Barbados, the race is 2,552 nautical miles. When bad weather and adverse conditions are factored in, most teams row well over 3,000 miles during their Atlantic crossing, taking between two and three months to complete the challenge.

The Four will attempt the crossing in an 8.8m (29ft) open hull transatlantic rowing boat.

Conditions on board will be extremely cramped and uncomfortable with little protection from the extreme weather conditions and colossal mid-Atlantic swells. During their time on-board, they will have no home comforts, no washing and limited cooking facilities, will drink desalinated seawater, and sleep in a space no bigger than a single bed.

We wish them well!

To find out more about the Atlantic Four and their epic journey, please visit www.theatlantic4.com

Page 18: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

16 | alumni news

Design alumnus in world firstA Loughborough alumnus has made design history with a cardboard-constructed vacuum cleaner.

Jake Tyler (Industrial Design, 2011) developed his design during his placement year with cleaning giant Vax whilst investigating ways of minimising the amount of waste generated by the manufacture of vacuum cleaners.

The prototype for Jake’s Vax Ev was constructed using corrugated cardboard packaging from another model. It consists of cardboard panels that are both waterproof and flame retardant, and those parts that cannot be constructed from cardboard are made from recyclable pure nylon plastic. As well as being environmentally friendly, the cost of replacing broken parts is a tenth of their plastic counterparts.

Vax were so impressed with the Vax Ev that they are hoping to put it into production and have offered Jake a permanent position at the company where he will have the opportunity to see production of his design through to the end.

Jake has high hopes for the commercial success of the Vax Ev, particularly in Asian markets, due to the low costs involved in the product’s manufacture.

His design not only won him a University prize, but also gained him a place at the New Designers exhibition held at the Business Design Centre in London during July.

For more information, visit www.carboardvax.com

Loughborough Alumni win Prestigious Financial Services AwardLoughborough Alumni Georgina Partridge (Business Economics and Finance, 2001) and Ross Yiend (Retail Management, 2004) established independent financial advice company, Plutus Wealth Management in 2009 alongside four other co-founders. Now, just two years later, they have been recognised by the financial industry, winning the Small Firm IFA of the Year category at the Money Marketing Financial Services Awards 2011.

Georgina attributes the company’s success to their unique approach to providing financial advice:

“The average age of our staff is just 31 years old and our clients are young too. We’ve deliberately targeted that market because not many financial services are working with the young professional market.”

Another unique characteristic of Plutus is that all staff are involved in playing sport of some kind, many at national level. Both Ross and Georgina still pursue sports they enjoyed while studying at Loughborough: Ross plays semi-professional rugby at National League 3, and Georgina plays Netball for Cumberland Netball Club in the National Premier League 2.

So, does this amazing sporting endeavour make any difference in the work place?

Ross said: “We didn’t deliberately set out to create a company where all staff played some kind of sport, but we think it definitely adds to the personality of Plutus. The sport mentality means we are great at team working, staying focused and striving for success.”

The Plutus team are working hard to build on their achievements in the city and continue to strive for success in their life outside work: Georgina recently completed a cycle ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise money for Diabetes UK.

Our congratulations go to Georgina and Ross.

Page 19: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

alumni loughborough | 15

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Honorary ceremony recognises contribution of cadetsOn Wednesday 27 July, Engineering Cadets from the 1940s returned to campus to attend a special lunch hosted by the Vice-Chancellor, Shirley Pearce, and the Dean of Engineering, Steve Rothberg.

Those present were awarded an honorary degree, in recognition of the invaluable contribution they made as students of Loughborough Colleges to the future success of Loughborough University.

There was also the opportunity for family and friends of cadets who had sadly passed away to attend the lunch and collect a posthumous award on their behalf.

Mr Philip Holbrook reflects on what being an Engineering Cadet at Loughborough meant:

“In April 1943, I arrived with the first wave of Loughborough Engineering Cadets to train for commissions in the technical arms of the armed services.

“The course was originally designed to be 24 months, but Doctor Schofield considered this was not enough time to teach the cadets all they needed, particularly with the amount of practical work. So, he successfully requested an extension to 40 months.

“The course was intensive and days, which included study, practical work and physical exercise, often didn’t end until seven o’clock. We had only four weeks holiday per year; lodgings and dinners were paid for; and we only had 4 shillings and 9 pence a week for ourselves. It’s surprising how well one could enjoy oneself on a Saturday night for about 23 pence!

“On Sundays, we were obliged to take part in the activities of the ATC, the STC or the Home Guard. We grumbled of course, but it was some time later we realised that staff also had to work in what was normally their spare time.

“We do consider ourselves as having charmed lives: at the end of our studies, we all joined the Armed Forces – though, due to the course extension, the war was mostly over.

“After the war, some stayed in the Forces, serving with distinction in Korea and other conflicts. They produced a Brigadier or two and many senior officers. In civilian life, there were CEOs, the odd Professor, Senior Managers and even a TV Producer. We remained a close knit group, meeting regularly for over 60 years – thanks to the efforts of Alan Talbot, Tibs and Ken Bardsey.”

We would like to congratulate all those who received the degree. A slideshow of images from the event is available to view at www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/cadetlunch

Page 20: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

The Class of 1962-65 invites you to the Big Five-Oh!Harry Buxton (Physical Education, 1965) reports on the warm up to his reunion group’s 50th Anniversary celebrations and invites you to the big event next year.

“At a special dinner in 1991 to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the awarding of the University Charter to the Loughborough College of Technology, a small group of Physical Education alumni from the intake of 1962 met and decided to hold a regular group reunion. Although small in number, our group have continued to meet and last year we began preparations for our 50th Anniversary to be held in 2012, marking half a century since we took up our places at Loughborough.

“This year, as part of our preparations, we decided to hold a dummy-run event. With the help of the Alumni Team, we managed to contact several additional alumni from the 1962 intake with whom we had lost touch.

“So, during the weekend of 11-12 June, 15 old boys attended the LCPE 1962-65 Reunion 2011. Having assembled at the Ramada Hotel, the band of 15 set off for a stroll along Memory Lane, aka Ashby Road, to revisit the Campus and view the recently installed Walk of Fame.

“Feet were rested and stories swapped during dinner which ended around 3:15am – it’s getting earlier and earlier, chaps: where has the old stamina gone?

“Details for the Big Five-Oh in 2012 are yet to be finalised, but the weekend of 12-14 October seems most likely.”

If you are interested in attending, please contact Harry Buxton at [email protected]

18 | alumni news

Reunion group return for International meetingThe annual reunion of the PE Classes of 1961 and 1962 took place in May this year to coincide with the Loughborough International Athletics Match.

Many of the group arrived in time for a Friday night out, visiting some old haunts in Loughborough ahead of the main event – a special reunion celebration on the Saturday evening.

Everyone enjoyed a fantastic dinner on Saturday, with great after-dinner speeches from John Leavold and Wyn Oliver. Following the dinner, many of the group adjourned to Loughborough town centre, with others remaining in the hotel bar. Some revellers stayed up until 3.30am, reliving the happenings of 50 years ago.

On Sunday, guests were invited to attend the Opening Ceremony of Loughborough Sporting Club’s Hall of Fame which took place in the Sir John Beckwith Building. They witnessed the induction of the inaugural group of 21 alumni – including Robbie Brightwell, John Disley, Dave Moorcoft and Andy Robinson – whose pictures and plaques will grace the Hall of Fame for years to come.

Everyone agreed that it was a wonderful weekend. If you would like to join classmates at the 2012 reunion, please contact [email protected]

Creative Scholarship imagesOn page 10 of the last edition of the alumni magazine, we featured images to support our article on the Creative Scholarship Fund, kindly supported by alumni. Unfortunately, we omitted to credit Sam Whittle (Fine Art, 2009) for allowing us to use these.

Our apologies go to Sam for this. If you would like to find out more about Sam’s work, visit www.samwhittle-artist.co.uk

please keep us

up-to-date with

your news...

email us at

[email protected]

Athletics coach raises funds for cardiac charityFormer international athlete and Loughborough alumnus Mike Fleet (Physical Education, 1961) has been raising much needed funds for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

As an 800m runner, Mike topped the UK rankings from Junior to Senior level and reached the final of the event in the 1962 Commonwealth Games in Perth. He later went on to serve as the athletics coach for Croydon Harriers Athletics Club, training many young athletes including Olympian and fellow Loughborough alumnus Martin Rooney.

It was after the sudden death of one of his athletes, Cecilia Barriga, at just 15 that he came up with the idea of charity bookmarks, signed by and including photographs of famous sports stars including Loughborough track and field legends Robbie Brightwell, David Moorcroft and Lisa Dobriskey.

The bookmarks have been produced in conjunction with CRY and have so far raised over £1,800 to help fund much needed research.

In addition, Mike’s book I Also Ran by Mike Who – charting his life in athletics and the extensive travels he enjoyed along the way – is helping to raise additional funds for CRY.

For more details, please contact Mike at [email protected]

The Reunion Party of 2011 pictured. Standing, left to right: Adrian Guarella; Dave Robley; Harry Buxton; John Forster; Stuart Storey; Bob Reeves; Hamilton Bland; Pete Davies and Dave Burge. Seated, left to right: Keith Oliver; Rog Smith; Stuart Ager; Ron Tennick and Jim Blyth.

Page 21: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

alumni news | 19

Introducing the Alumni Advisory BoardIn April, the University Council approved a new Constitution for the Alumni Association, completing a transitional process which started in 2010.

The new Constitution introduces some significant changes. The Alumni on Court and the Alumni Board have now been replaced with one body, the Alumni Advisory Board. The new Board works with the University to represent all alumni in the development of alumni relations and in supporting the strategic development of the University.

The Constitution also includes a revised mission statement which more accurately reflects the increased scale and scope of the Alumni Association and highlights its key objectives.

The first 15 elected members of the Alumni Advisory Board are: Bridget Blair (Library Studies, 1980), David Bunker (PE, 1964), Mike Charleston (Production Engineering and Management, 1970), Christine Fisher (PE and Sports Science/Recreation Management, 1981), John Freeman (Chemical Engineering, 1961), John Gillespie (Handicraft, 1959), Paul Glover (Information and Computing, 1994), Gemma Godfrey (Systems Engineering, 2006), David Goss (Politics, 2007), Chris Hallam (Banking and Finance, 1984), Mark Jackson (Computing and Management, 1996), Mallika Neale (Management Sciences, 1980), Ralph Powell (Handicraft, 1957), Wei Shen (Geography, 2010) and Jock Wright (Materials Engineering, 2005).

If you are interested in standing for election to the Alumni Advisory Board, please visit www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/advisoryboard where you will also find profiles of the current Board members. Alternatively, please contact the Alumni Office on 01509 228497 for further details.

Copies of the Alumni Constitution can be obtained from the Development and Alumni Relations Office, and it can be viewed online at www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/constitution

Alumni Advisory Board Two member profiles

David Goss Politics, 2007 Researcher, House of CommonsDavid Goss lived in Rutherford Hall for three years (2004-07) and graduated in 2007 with a degree in Politics. He then served two years on the Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU) executive team, firstly as Vice-President with responsibility for Communications and Democracy (2007-08) and then as Union President (2008-09). During this time he championed alumni relations and was made an honorary affiliate of both Faraday and Royce Halls of Residence.

David’s role on the Alumni Advisory Board is to support and promote events for recent graduates, including Lufbra in London, the annual May Bank Holiday Alumni Challenge Weekend, and LSU’s annual Hey Ewe in London each August. He also works with LSU to support communication with the Alumni Association.

David Bunker Physical Education, 1964 Director of Undergraduate Programmes, School of Sports and Exercise Sciences, Loughborough University (Retired)David left Loughborough in 1964 to take up an appointment to teach Physical Education and Geography at Alleyn’s School in Dulwich, London. After three highly enjoyable years, he accepted an offer of a Teaching Assistantship at the University of Iowa in the United States.

On returning to the UK in 1968, David joined the staff at Brighton, Hove and Sussex Grammar School as Head of the Physical Education Department. During his time there, he completed an Advanced Diploma in the Psychology of Education which led to a successful application for a lectureship at the Loughborough College of Education in 1972.

David has remained in Loughborough ever since. He considers the time spent working with colleagues and students – not to mention 13 unforgettable years as Warden of The Holt – an absolute privilege. He retired in 2009 and spends much of his time trying to meet the requests of six children and nine grandchildren. He continues to be critically involved with the on-going development of the Loughborough Sporting Club and supports the work of the Alumni Advisory Board in any way that he can.

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Page 22: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Continuing our series focussing on legendary moments in the University’s rich history, we delve into the folklore of its

musical heritage and take a look at the talent which has taken to the stage in venues across Campus over the years.

So, Pop-Pickers, join us for a rummage through Loughborough’s musical archives. We’re sure you’ll recognise many of

our featured artists – and hope you managed to see a few along the way.

Criminal billIn hindsight, one of the most astonishing stories concerns rock legends The Police who

appeared not as sell-out headliners but as support to the now sadly neglected Albertos y

los trios paranois (“Heads Down No Nonsense Mindless Boogie”) who have since lost their

way in the mists of time. Guy Griffiths (Government and Language, 1979) reviewed the gig

back in the late 1970s.

Albertos y los trios paranois

6 December 1978

“Most gig reports give the support band a polite mention in the first few lines and then devote

the rest to the headliners. This may usually be justified, but not in the case of The Police. Their

clever blend of reggae and new wave did much more than just warm up the audience, and

it would all have been better were it not for a couple of lighting failures and a frustrating 15

minutes’ loss of power.

“Their fine set of songs, particularly the three singles to date – “Roxanne”, “Can’t Stand Losing

You” and “So Lonely” – were all treated in the same energetic and enthusiastic way and the

high pitched reggae-style vocals of bassist Gordon Sumner were outstanding. It’s a pity they

couldn’t have played longer.

“Onto the Albertos who were a bit of an anti-climax. They were very funny in places, but at

times got a bit monotonous – particularly when you couldn’t make out the lyrics of what

was meant to be a humorous song.

“They had to contend with a power failure as well – maybe Ents hadn’t put enough in

the meter.”

Page 23: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Are you experienced?

Rumours that Jimi Hendrix graced the stage at EHB circa 1967 appear

to be unfounded. Hendrix was part of a multi-band tour that skirted

Loughborough at the time, but we have no evidence to suggest he actually

performed here. If you were there and are able to confirm his rumoured

appearance, we would love to hear from you: but as they say – if you

remember the 60s, you weren’t really there…

However, it is true that Loughborough’s Ultimate Frisbee Team did dub

themselves “Purple Haze” in homage.

Here, There and Everywhere

– except Loughborough

Efforts to secure big name acts during the 1960s were not always

successful. In an effort to quell disgruntled grumblings, the Ents Chairman

explained why popular new groups like The Beatles were not appearing

at Loughborough:

“Unfortunately, due to circuit concert tours and attractive engagements

abroad these groups [like The Beatles] were not the slightest bit interested

in one-night stands as it commits them to an isolated engagement.”

Student fans had to leave their splendid isolation and travel to Leicester’s

De Montfort Hall and Nottingham’s Odeon to catch up with the Fab Four.

Who sponsored research

at Loughborough The Who’s Who Put the Boot In tour of 1976 was notable for its early use

of laser lighting. The band’s lighting manager, John Wolff, worked with the

late Nick Phillips (1933-2009) – Loughborough physicist and pioneer in

holography – developing lasers to enhance the group’s stage show.

Along with set designer Anton Furst, Wolff and Phillips masterminded the

Light Fantastic exhibitions at the Royal Academy, in 1977 and 1978,

with support from Loughborough’s Physics Department.

Remember a DayFriday 14 February 1969 was a very special day in Loughborough – not

just for lovers, old and young: Pink Floyd headlined the Valentine’s Dance.

The line-up in the EHB featured David Gilmour, Nick Mason, Roger Waters

and Richard Wright – Syd Barrett having left the band the previous year.

Fans were treated to a return visit later that year, just before the release

of the band’s fourth album, Ummagumma, in October.

Eighties revisitedSue Missin (Human Geography and Economics, 1986) remembers some

of the bands she saw:

“As a student in the 1980s, Loughborough didn’t perhaps reach dizzy

heights as a venue, but we were treated to many of the up and coming

bands including Tears for Fears and OMD. Paul Young was the first concert

I attended at the Student’s Union at the end of my first week in October

1983 – he’d had a Number One hit that summer. Other gigs I got tickets

for included Squeeze and Slade. I remember getting excited when Howard

Jones was announced, but that concert was cancelled – he was becoming

too famous!”

First-class line-upEven though some artists seem to have considered themselves too

famous to visit Loughborough, many renowned international acts have

enjoyed one-night stands on campus. Acts to have rocked the house over

the years include:

Georgie Fame (1966), Rod Stewart (1966), Procul Harum (1968), Joe

Cocker (1968), Mott the Hoople (1970), The Kinks (1972), Ian Dury

(1977), Elvis Costello and the Attractions (1977), Joy Division (1979),

Madness (1979), The Cure (1980), and U2 (1981).

FinaleThe compilation of a comprehensive list of bands to have played at

Loughborough is a massive undertaking. Our thanks go to Library archivist,

Jenny Clark, for her tremendous work, trawling through hundreds of

University publications. To date she has logged details of the bands that

played during the 20 year period, 1963-82.

If you were an avid Loughborough gig-goer, particularly in the years

following this era, we would love to hear your tales of crowd-surfing and

lighter waving. Email us at [email protected]

Page 24: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Alumni Coffee Mornings

events at loughborough

Alumni Challenge Weekend 2011

We have enjoyed a fantastic year of alumni events, and have been thrilled to welcome so many of you to gatherings both on Campus and off. We continue to develop opportunities for you to stay in touch with Loughborough and each other, launching new initiatives and improving our existing programme.

Here is a flavour of 2011’s alumni calendar. If you haven’t already attended an event – we hope to see you soon.

After a hugely successful launch in 2010, Loughborough’s Alumni Challenge Weekend returned over the weekend of 6-8 May this year. Over 350 students and alumni flocked to campus to compete for the Alumni Challenge Cup and, this year’s new addition, the Alumni IMS Challenge Cup.

Following a special alumni FND (Friday Night Disco), the athletic action began on Saturday morning with 11 matches played across seven sports. Despite their best efforts, alumni lost out to the students, who retained the Challenge Cup by seven matches to four.

It was a different story in the Alumni IMS Challenge Cup, however. Student and alumni halls football teams battled it out, with Faraday alumni claiming the victory.

The presentation of trophies was made by former SU president David Goss at a special Hey Ewe, where alumni and students had the chance to celebrate their success.

A big thank you to all alumni who made the special effort of returning to campus – you helped to raise nearly £2,000 for the participating Halls and Athletic Union Sports Clubs. We look forward to seeing you all again next year.

Alumni Challenge Weekend

Alumni BOND

Alumni Lufbra in London

Page 25: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

for more information about events at loughborough, contact the events team at [email protected]

events at loughborough | 23

Alumni Coffee MorningsHosted at Burleigh Court, these monthly gatherings provide opportunities for retired staff and local alumni to meet up and enjoy a programme of activities, including presentations and tours conducted by senior members of University staff that give a unique insight into the various academic departments at Loughborough.

Our 2010/11 Coffee Morning programme culminated with almost 50 alumni enjoying a grand day out to Consall Hall Landscape Gardens in Staffordshire. Former Loughborough student and the Gardens’ creator, William Podmore OBE, welcomed the group and spoke on the history of the venue – and shared some fond memories of his time at the University.

Alumni Reunion WeekendDuring the weekend of 9-11 September, we once more welcomed alumni back to campus for the annual Reunion Weekend. This year, we were delighted to celebrate with so many of you your 25th, 30th and 40th anniversaries since you graduated from Loughborough.

Many guests arrived on Friday evening and took full advantage of the facilities at Burleigh Court Hotel and Spa, based on campus. On Saturday morning, the weekend’s activities kicked off with a lively rugby World Cup breakfast. Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shirley Pearce then welcomed everybody and gave an update on recent developments across the University, before handing over to the Director for Sport, Chris Earle. He gave a fascinating insight into Loughborough’s involvement and preparations for the 2012 Olympics.

After lunch, guests had the opportunity to take a tour of some of the University’s academic departments, including the Department of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering, the Design School and Sports Development Centre as well as the Pilkington Library. The weekend culminated with a drinks reception and gala dinner on the Saturday evening.

Looking ahead, the Alumni Reunion Weekend for 2012 is scheduled for September, and will welcome the classes of 1961/62 and all preceding years. However, all alumni wishing to come back to campus are welcome to join the celebrations and take advantage of one of the many packages available.

Alumni Lufbra in LondonThese twice-yearly social events have steadily grown in popularity. The latest, held in October, had a new look and venue: The Marquess of Anglesey in Covent Garden proved very popular, with record numbers attending. Former students from all years spent an enjoyable evening catching up with each other and the latest developments at Loughborough.

To register your attendance and find out more about alumni events during 2012, visit www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/events

20 March

AprilM

ayJuly

September

Alumni BOND Speaker – Lord Professor Robert Winston

A great opportunity for business networking and chance to hear from one of the UK’s most engaging speakers.

Alumni Lufbra in London Marquess of Anglesey, Covent Garden

Our long-running social evening returns to the capital.

Alumni Challenge WeekendCome on – let’s try and defeat the student teams this time round. Get your squad together and join hundreds of others for this fantastic weekend.

Loughborough Sporting Club Golf TournamentTeams compete under the Stableford system for the annual trophy. Simply register your interest and we will organise the rest.

Alumni Reunion WeekendIf you are a member of the class of 1961/2 or before, join friends and colleagues for our Annual Reunion Weekend.

Coming up in 2012

If you were unable to attend an event this year, we have plenty planned for 2012 and hope you will be able to join us. Full details will be confirmed soon, but highlights of the

programme include:

Alumni BONDJust one year on from its successful launch in November 2010, we have hosted three more Alumni BOND (Business Opportunities for Networking and Development) events around London, providing alumni with a forum to meet, network and discuss business matters whilst listening to guest speakers and catching up with each other.

Our BOND speakers have included alumni Baroness Sue Campbell (Youth Sport Trust), Daryl Jelinek (Coca Cola), James Sproule (Accenture) and Sarah Jackson (Waitrose). They have covered a diverse range of fascinating topics, including the 2012 Olympics, corporate legacies, and the challenges facing the future of our economy during the current recession.

April

Loughborough Sporting Club official launchThe first annual dinner for members of Loughborough Sporting Club with guest speakers to be confirmed. For more information, visit www.loughboroughsportingclub.co.uk

Page 26: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

LOUGHBOROUGH SPORTING CLUB EvENTS PROGRAMME KICKS OFFThe launch of Loughborough Sporting Club in March was tremendously successful, with hundreds of you signing up to continue your involvement with Loughborough’s rich sporting heritage.

A number of events have celebrated our first year, and there are many more planned. Details are listed below – if you haven’t already signed up, please visit www.loughboroughsportingclub.co.uk

LSC inaugural Golf DayOn Friday 29 July, eight teams – comprising alumni, staff and current students, aged 19–77 – met at Loughborough’s outstanding Longcliffe Golf Club for the inaugural Loughborough Sporting Club Golf Tournament.

The day started with breakfast in the clubhouse, before players headed off to take on what is described as “one of the premier golf courses in the East Midlands”. A highly competitive morning followed, with each team striving for greatness.

LIA 2011Alumni enjoyed performances from European Athletics Champions Jessica Ennis and Dai Greene at this year’s Loughborough International Athletics (LIA) match, despite difficult windy conditions.

The annual event showcases sporting talent from GB Juniors, British Universities, as well as England, Scotland, and Wales Senior squads, with many Loughborough Athletes past and present competing. It was an exciting day with some tremendous performances: the England team regained the Loughborough International title.

To coincide with the match, the University unveiled its sporting Walk of Fame. This series of bronze pavers, set in the piazza between the Sir John Beckwith Centre for Sport and the Performance Centre, honours the inaugural members of Loughborough’s Sporting Hall of Fame.

The Walk is accompanied by a new wall display in the foyer of the Sir John Beckwith Centre that contains a plaque for each of the 21 inductees. The unveiling event was led by the University’s Chancellor Sir Nigel Rudd, and was attended by over 100 people.

Henley RegattaLoughborough alumni gathered on the banks of the Thames at Henley Regatta, to cheer on the Loughborough rowers and catch up with old friends. It was a very pleasant day: we enjoyed beautiful weather and the opportunity to reconnect with established alumni as well as meet and welcome new members.

We will be at the Regatta again next year. Details will be available on the Sporting Club website closer to the date.

“We had a lovely day – it was good to meet and chat with other alumni from across the years. We also enjoyed the most delicious lunch.”

Neil and Cathy Fletcher (Class of ‘79 and ‘80, respectively)

After dinner Director of Sport, Chris Earle, made two individual awards, recognising the longest drive (Henry Dziuba) and closest to the pin (Josh Hill). The overall winning team trophy was deservedly presented to Nick Holland, Dave Rogers, Josh Hill, and Rodney Hussey.

Details of our next Golf Day will be on the Loughborough Sporting Club website shortly.

Director of Sport, Chris Earle (second left) and team about to tee off

Page 27: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Welcome to our new AmbassadorsOur Alumni Ambassadors do invaluable work, acting as our first point of contact with alumni in their home country, and keeping alumni connected with the University and each other. We’re delighted to welcome five new Alumni Ambassadors who have signed up since the last edition of the magazine. For the International Alumni Ambassadors contact list see page 33.

To find out more on our international alumni groups, contact us at www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/international

DenmarkDouglas Langley (Sports Science and Recreational Management, 1988; PGCE, 1990; MSc Sports Science, 1992) moved to Denmark in 1994. He worked for the Danish Rugby Union between 1996-2008, and now serves on the International Rugby Board. He lives in Stoevring with his wife, Mette, and their two children, Lawrence and Sophia.

To find out more about our alumni group in Denmark, contact Douglas at [email protected] or on +45 40159945 (mobile) or +45 7079370 (home).

FranceTony Farmer (Aeronautical Engineering and Design, 1988) has recently relocated to Paris, having set up

a management consultancy. Tony is keen to establish regular meetings and events with alumni based in France.

If you would like to get involved, please contact Tony at [email protected]

GermanyKate Clift, a former member of the Development and Alumni Office, has recently moved to Berlin with her family. Whilst Kate is not a Loughborough graduate, she worked at the University from 1994-2011, and was one of the original team which launched the Alumni Association.

Kate would be happy to hear from alumni living and working in Berlin to perhaps co-ordinate a couple of get-togethers. You can contact Kate at [email protected]

Republic of IrelandJohn Mangan (Retail Management, 1995) has worked extensively in Ireland and the UK since graduating from

Loughborough, holding several senior management positions. He currently works as General Manager for one

of Ireland’s leading independent fashion businesses. He lives in Galway with his wife, Angela, and their three children.

A keen sportsman, active in local business and the performing arts, John looks forward to developing links with all alumni members based in Ireland.

You can contact him at [email protected] or on 00 353 91 850136 or 00 353 87 4180459.

Republic of South Africa Hugh Fynn (Physical Education, 1971) enjoyed a teaching career spanning almost 40 years at schools across Africa and Europe, before he settled in Cape Town where he taught at the prestigious Bishop’s School and served as head teacher at St Joseph’s Marist College for 12 years.

As an Alumni Ambassador, Hugh hopes to strengthen ties amongst local alumni by organising social events and facilitating meetings between alumni and Loughborough University staff visiting South Africa. You can contact Hugh at [email protected]

global networksglobal networks | 25

Alumni gather for Thai reunionPrompted by the Honorary Degree ceremonies – held to celebrate 100 years of education at Loughborough – alumni in Thailand decided to host a reunion for former students of all ages.

The event, which coincided with the older group’s biannual get together, took place at the My Choice restaurant in Bangkok on 11 May and marks the start of what will become a regular calendar of alumni events. The reunion, organised by Thanavat Lilabhan (Mechanical Engineering, 1961), gave those present the opportunity to catch up and chat about their time and experiences at Loughborough.

With over 140 alumni based in Thailand, the group are keen to welcome as many of their fellow classmates along to future events as possible.

If you would like details of future alumni events in Thailand, please contact Nat Petpaisit (MSc International Management, 2002), our alumni ambassador for Thailand, at [email protected]

Raising swimming standards in Sri LankaSteve Bayley, Assistant Coach of Loughborough University Swimming, has supported Director of Swimming, Ian Armiger, in nurturing Loughborough’s swimming talent since 2004. During this time, he has also held significant international coaching roles, including Head Coach for Team GB at the University World Games.

However, Steve’s latest venture was something of a novel departure. In April, he spent a week coaching young swimmers at Visakha Vidyalaya School, Colombo. As well as working with the youngsters on key areas and techniques, Steve trained local coaches to ensure that they can effectively support and challenge their students.

Alumnus Sumith Jayasekera (MSc Construction Management, 1988) made the initial link with the school. Swimming is a developing sport in Sri Lanka, and Sumith felt that Steve’s expertise and coaching would enhance the talent amongst young Sri Lankan swimmers.

During his time in Colombo, Steve experienced fantastic hospitality from both parents and teachers of the school, and was hugely impressed by the young people he worked with:

“The children’s enthusiasm and dedication was incredible. They really wanted to listen and learn and made a lot of progress. The huge smile lighting the face of an eight-year-old enjoying learning how to swim properly was the highlight. I certainly came back very positive, and very happy with the job we did.”

A long-term plan for swimming, developed in partnership between the school and Ian Armiger, will be put in place to ensure the future progress of the coaching staff and young swimmers.

Page 28: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

loughborough sportNew Campus Sports DevelopmentsLoughborough’s reputation for sporting excellence remains unchallenged. In recent years, a £36m capital investment has enhanced our sports facilities and we now enjoy one of the highest concentrations of top-class sports training facilities found anywhere in the world.

We are delighted to announce two current projects: PowerBase and Holywell.

PowerBaseOn 26 September work commenced on extensive alterations to PowerBase and the English Institute of Sport Performance Centre. Funded jointly by the University and Sport England, the project will ensure that Loughborough remains at the cutting edge of strength and conditioning for elite athletes, and that teaching and research elements are fully integrated. The work will also ensure that we continue to attract national sports bodies and the best elite athletes to campus.

As well as improving the overall health and fitness offer on campus, staff and students will enjoy a convenient and competitive gym experience superior to those offered by commercial operators.

Holywell development The University is developing the Holywell end of campus with an enhanced rugby and football facility, that includes changing rooms for both the new and six existing pitches.

Planning permission was granted for the project in June 2011 and work commenced on site at the start of the autumn semester. It is anticipated the facility will be complete by late spring 2012.

The pitch will primarily be used by Loughborough University Football Club, the University’s first team. The development will include a perimeter fence, floodlights and turnstiles, together with 300 permanent covered seats and stand accommodation, creating an enclosed 3,000 capacity venue.

Thanks to a generous grant of £100,000 from the Football Foundation, the new facility will meet the requirements set out by the Football Association for the club to play in their current league, the Midland Alliance. The facility will also meet league standards should they achieve promotion within the amateur football league.

The development will also allow the University to hold a limited number of showcase events including the annual Varsity and England Under-20 rugby matches.

Page 29: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

loughborough sport | 27

Olympian memoirs Robbie Brightwell MBE (Physical Education, 1962), an inaugural member of the University’s Sporting Hall of Fame, has published his athletic memoirs.

Robbie Brightwell and his Golden Girl recalls the Olympic 400m silver medallist’s journey to Olympic fame at the 1964 Tokyo Games alongside his wife and fellow medallist, Ann Packer.

It is as a tale of extraordinary sporting adventure. Anchored in the days of doctrinal amateurism, when aspiring hopefuls dreamed more of inheriting the Olympic crown than pots of gold, it reveals the luminaries who shaped the pair’s lives and the daunting challenges they overcame before seizing the highest sporting laurels when all seemed lost.

Ann Packer became the first British woman to win an Olympic track Gold medal – in circumstances reminiscent of Eric Liddell’s dramatic victory in Chariots of Fire. After finishing a disappointing second in the 400m, she entered her second-string 800m novice event and won a Gold medal, setting a world record to boot.

Equally memorable is the author’s tale. His youthful discovery that the modern Olympic Games was resurrected a few miles from his Shropshire home inspired him to win a Silver medal but not before, as captain of the British Olympic team, he led a rebellion against the sport’s governing body, threatening its departure to the XVIIIth Olympiad and challenging the edifice of amateurism. It subsequently became the most successful Great Britain team.

These fascinating memoirs are published on Amazon Kindle at www.amazon.co.uk/kindle

Rocktape comes to Loughborough Earlier this year, Simon Bunyard (Politics with Communication and Media, 2003) and three partners bought the UK and Ireland rights to distribute ROCKTAPE: they now supply Loughborough’s Physiotherapy Department.

Rocktape is a kinesiology tape – the brightly coloured strapping that many sportsmen and women apply to their hamstrings, calves and backs. It offers three key benefits – helping to lift the skin, relieving the pressure associated with swelling; and accelerating blood flow to the injured area to speed up healing. Importantly for top-flight athletes, it stabilises the injured area without restricting movement so that they can remain active.

In addition to Loughborough, Saracens, Tottenham Hotspur, Middlesex County Cricket Club, and Tour de France team, Champions Garmin-Cervelo are all using the tape. Simon and his partners also support Loughborough alumna and top-ranked UK skiercross racer, Emily Sarsfield, who is thrilled with Rocktape:

“Following recent surgery, it has made all the difference to my summer training – my one-legged squats are now back! Rocktape provides the stability my muscles need to work properly.”

The team at Rocktape is delighted to be working with Loughborough, and hope that the relationship continues to develop, with many more Loughborough alumni joining their list of clients.

For more information, please visit www.rocktape.net

Loughborough pays tribute to sporting personalities It is with sadness that we have to inform readers of the passing of two sporting greats.

Idwal Robling (Physical Education, 1952) died on 9 June 2011 following a short illness. Idwal enjoyed a long and successful career as a football commentator, starting during the1960s with BBC Radio Wales.

His big break came when he commentated at the 1970 World Cup Finals,

but he is perhaps best remembered for his commentary during Cardiff City’s historic 1-0 victory over Real Madrid at Ninian Park during the European Cup Winners’ quarter final first leg in 1971. An outstanding amateur footballer, he was part of the Great Britain squad at the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, and won 13 caps as an amateur international for Wales.

In October, former England international cricketer and Head Coach of Loughborough University Cricket, Graham Dilley died after a short illness.

The former Kent and Worcestershire fast bowler played 41 Test Matches and 36 One-Day Internationals for England during a 10 year international career which encompassed two Ashes wins in 1981 and 1986-87. He was an outstanding coach. He contributed significantly to Loughborough’s development as an MCC Cricket Centre of Excellence and played a key role in its unparalleled success over recent years.

He also saw many of his Loughborough students progress to county and national cricket, including alumnus and England international, Monty Panesar.

Chris Earle, Director of Sport at Loughborough University said: “We are devastated to hear that Graham has passed away. He made his mark on the world of cricket, not just with his success as a player, but through his contribution as our cricket coach over the past 11 years.”

Our thoughts are with the families of Idwal and Graham.

Page 30: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

life after loughborough

Bob Wilson (DLC Physical Education, 1965; D.Litt.1989; BSc (Hon), 2009)

Football fans will recognise Bob Wilson with affection – legendary Arsenal goalkeeper, football presenter, philanthropist, teacher and coach. We recently spoke to Bob about his memories of Loughborough, his sporting career, media success and the national charity he and his wife Megs founded.

Can you tell us a little about your student days at Loughborough?I only have good memories of my student days. Our time was packed with activity and it wasn’t unusual to play several sports in a single day. I graduated with a great education and developed the confidence to make the most of the opportunities that life has thrown my way. I met many inspirational athletes and made some life-long friends.

I have fond memories of playing football for a fantastic Loughborough team coached by Allen Wade. Allen was a big influence on me. When I arrived at Loughborough, I lacked confidence, but Allen’s example and encouragement really helped me.

Ironically, I hadn’t wanted to go to Loughborough. I had been ‘on the books’ at Manchester United, but my father didn’t think that was a proper career and insisted that I choose between joining the police or getting an education. I am glad he insisted: Loughborough’s influence has helped me to achieve so much, both professionally and personally.

When you return to the University today what are your impressions? All I can reply is – amazing! I visited this year for the UK Corporate Games and was lucky enough to tour campus. I recognised the track and Victory Hall, prompting fond memories of the Victory Hall dances, but there are so many new and fantastic facilities. The University is truly a centre of

excellence for sport in Europe. I think the biggest change in Loughborough sport is the shift from the purely practical to the integration of sports science and technologies into sporting practice.

You have been involved in professional football for your entire career both on and off the pitch – what are the biggest changes you have seen?Today’s football is very different. The rules have changed and not always for the better, the ball is different and we don’t have end of season bald patches at the goalmouth as pitch maintenance has been transformed. Perhaps the biggest change has been on the commercial side with the dominance of television and the astronomical rise in player salaries. When I retired from Arsenal in 1974, I was earning just £130 a week with a £4 bonus for a win and £2 for a draw.

Football still has a few changes to make, and I think technology should be introduced to assist referees – controversial I know, but something I feel the game needs.

I am pleased that I personally brought about one change by introducing specialist coaching for goalkeepers. It is something that I developed at Arsenal and which has spread throughout the game. I also think that the game has benefitted from the application of sports science, something that Arsène Wenger successfully pioneered.

Top image: Bob with the League Division 1 Champions trophy and FA Cup, when Arsenal won the Double in 1971Bottom image: Bob with a beneficiary of the work of the Willow Foundation

Page 31: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

life after loughborough

Throughout your career, you have inspired people both with your sporting achievements and your charity work. Who do you find inspirational?The Second World War was a big influence on my early life. I was only a small child when the war ended, but tragically two of my older brothers died in active service. I admire Churchill for his inspirational leadership at this very difficult time for the country.

In sport, former German prisoner of war and brilliant Manchester City goalkeeper, Bert Trautmann is a hero to me. He was a big influence on my own playing style. I am also an admirer of golfer Jack Nicklaus, not only for his skill but also for his sportsmanship – he is a real gentleman.

What aspect of your life after Loughborough are you most proud of?I can roughly split my adult life into three phrases – playing football, my television work and the Willow Foundation. There have been achievements in all of these phases that I am proud of, but what stands out the most is being able to turn something that was catastrophically negative into a strong positive in my life.

When our daughter, Anna, died of a rare cancer just before her 32nd birthday, my wife Megs and I were devastated. Looking back, it may sound strange, but the five years that Anna was fighting cancer were the most enriching of my life. From day one, Anna insisted that we must not let her illness destroy us as well. We shared some great times together as a family and remembering those special times has been a comfort to us.

In her final weeks, Anna encouraged us to use what we had learnt from creating those special memories together to do something positive. A nna died on 1 December 1998, and during that sad first Christmas without her Megs came up with the idea of The Willow Foundation.

Can you tell us a little more about the Willow Foundation? My nickname when I was playing was Willow and Anna was known as Little Willow: hence, The Willow Foundation. We wanted to give people aged between 16 and 40 suffering from life threatening illnesses something good to look forward to and to help them create special memories to share with their families, in other words a little psychological and emotional support. So far, the Foundation has provided over 8,000 memorable occasions for people across the country.

life after loughborough | 29

The real driving force behind the Foundation, especially in its early days, has been my wife, Megs. My public profile helps to publicise the Foundation and to raise funds, but it is Megs who should really take the credit for developing the Foundation into a national organisation able to help thousands of people. When I was offered my OBE in 2007 for charitable work, I was reluctant to accept it at first. I felt it should have gone to Megs. In the end, I was persuaded to accept on behalf of the Foundation and everyone who has contributed to its success.

I am 70 this year and wanted to celebrate in a way that would help the Foundation. Megs thought I was mad when I decided to go on a sponsored bike ride that would take me to each of the 20 Premier League Clubs. Being a Loughborough graduate, I knew I would have to do some serious training to be able to complete the 528 mile route, but I did it. With the help of the Clubs, many of my friends in football and the media, and the support of the public we raised the profile of the Foundation and well over £300,000. The most moving part of the journey was meeting some of the people and their families the Foundation had helped. It made it all worthwhile.

How are you spending your time now and do you have any ambitions left?Megs and I are still working hard for the Foundation but, with great support from the Foundation’s staff, we are hoping to find some time to enjoy our retirement. Our ambition now is to make sure that the Foundation has a secure future and that it can continue its work after we are gone.

What advice would you give to someone graduating from Loughborough today?I have thought hard about this and I have several ideas to pass on, the most important of which is – trust your instincts. You will hear advice from all sorts of people in life, listen to them, but don’t ignore your own instincts. Continually challenge yourself and learn to accept the highs and lows you will experience in both your professional and personal lives. Above all, enjoy your life and value your friends and family.

What does being a Loughborough alumnus mean to you?I am proud to be a Loughborough alumnus. It’s wonderful to still feel part of the University. I remember standing recently in the Loughborough Sport Hall of Fame, looking at my name on a plaque and feeling amazed, proud and happy to be counted as one of Loughborough’s people.

The Football Legend● Born in 1941, Chesterfield in Derbyshire

● In 1963, signed for Arsenal

● Made 308 first team appearances in his 11 years as a player

● Named Arsenal’s player of the year in 1971, when the Club won the Double, and made his international debut for Scotland

● Retiring from the pitch, he became Arsenal’s first goalkeeping coach

● Served as a football presenter and pundit on both BBC and ITV

Willow Foundation● Founded in 1999 by Bob and Megs Wilson

in memory of their daughter, Anna

● Provides special days for seriously ill 16–40 year olds

● To date, the Foundation has helped over 8,000 people and their families

● For further information, please visit www.willowfoundation.org.uk

Bob with wife and co-founder of The Willow Foundation Megs Wilson

Page 32: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

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Rod Cooper (Geography and Physical Education, 1966) married Gill Walker on 2 July 2010 at Down Hall Country House Hotel, Hatfield Heath, Hertfordshire. Loughborough alumni at the wedding included Rod Dunn (Physical Education, 1966), Mike Kirkham (Physical Education, 1966), John Milner (Physical Education, 1966), and Rod Turner (Physical Education, 1966). The celebration was followed by a honeymoon in St Lucia. Rod and Gill live in Gwynedd, Mid-Wales.

Bryan Mason (Physical Education, 1965) is Executive Director of the charity Higher Sports which seeks to encourage churches and schools to impact their communities in the lead up to the London 2012 Olympics and make a real difference. For further details visit www.highersports.org Bryan’s second book, Beyond the Gold, was published in June 2011 and is a practical guide to sports ministry. His first book, Into the Stadium, is used as a university text in both the UK and USA.

Aberglasney Gardens and Carreg Cennen in the Black Mountains as well as holding a Gala Dinner.

Three alumni (pictured below) who are members of the same church at Sewerby, Bridlington were delighted to discover that each of them had a Loughborough pedigree. Having completed their professional careers at different times and in different places, Derek Boyland (Civil Engineering, 1965), John Hilditch (Physical Education, 1952) and Tony Huntington (Physical Education, 1961) are now able to devote some time to assist in the running of the church. All three treasure their memories of Loughborough and are delighted to observe that the student experience is as good, if not better, than their own just a few years ago.

life after loughborough

Stephen Appleby (Handicraft, 1944) celebrated his diamond wedding anniversary to Pamela (née Chell) who also studied at Loughborough at the Senior College of Art. They married at Woodhouse Eves on 24 March 1951. Their grandson Anthony McGrath (Production Design and Manufacturing, 1999) is also an alumnus of Loughborough.

40sThis July, for the 16th successive year, a group of Physical Education alumni from the 1950s met for an annual golf match at Headingley Golf Club (pictured below left). Hedley Atkin, Ray Griffiths, Geoffrey Lee, Clive Bond and George Grime all graduated in 1955.The group, all members of the 1952-55 soccer team, enjoyed a nostalgic day –

50s 60s

Gill Walker and Rod Cooper

(L-R) Hedley Atkin, Ray Griffiths, Geoffrey Lee, Clive Bond and George Grime

(L-R) Tony Lucas, John Hanford, John Chick, Michael Marwood, Ian Gaudin, Peter Howard and David Eddelston

Bryan Mason

putting the world to rights over evening dinner, where they were joined by their wives.

John Hanford (Civil Engineering, 1955) met up with a number of fellow alumni at the Henley Regatta in July: Tony Lucas (Civil Engineering, 1955), John Hanford (Civil Engineering, 1955), John Chick (Civil Engineering, 1955), Michael Marwood (Mechanical Engineering 1957), Ian Gaudin (Mechanical Engineering, 1955), Peter Howard (Civil Engineering, 1959) and David Eddelston (Civil Engineering, 1955).

Early September saw the annual reunion of the 1949-1952 PE alumni in Swansea. Superbly organised by Ray Williams, the group visited

(L-R) Derek Boyland, John Hilditch and Tony Huntington

1949-1952 PE alumni in Swansea

Page 33: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

90sChris Knowles (Computing and Management, 1999) served around the world with 814 Naval Air Squadron and for two years in Iraq with 78 Squadron. He is a qualified instructor and recently graduated from the Empire Test Pilots School at Boscombe Down, winning the Westlands Trophy for the best pilot on course. This has led to his current position as UK Project Pilot for the Merlin Mark 1, 2, 3 and 3a helicopters. Recently promoted to Lieutenant Commander, he lives in Wickham, Hampshire with partner Lucy who is also an officer in the Royal Navy. Chris remains in touch with several alumni from Loughborough including Lt Cdr Steve Prest (Electronic and Electrical Engineering, 1999), Colin Aspinall (Accountancy and Financial Management, 1997) and Meriel Aspinall (Psychology, 1999).

Tina Bodell (Accounting and Financial Management, 1997) and Rob Keates (Management Science, 1999), both from Elvyn Richards Hall, were married on 5 February 2011 at Wroxall Abbey in Warwickshire. They are pictured with their son, Joshua, who was born in February 2010. Many past Loughborough students were present on the day.

80s 00sThe wedding of Craig Bowley (Politics with English, 2005; MA International Relations, 2008) to Laura Jane Cahill took place on 18 December 2010 at Holyrood Church in Packington, followed by a reception at Quorn Country Hotel.

Victoria Clark (Retail Management, 2004) and Tom Boneham (Computing and Management, 2004) married on 11 June 2011 at Grim’s Dyke Hotel, Old Redding, Middlesex. They met through fellow alumnus Sean Moran (Geography, 2003) in the first week of University in 2000, got together a year later, and are now married after 10 years together. They had many alumni as guests, including Laura Presland (Retail Management, 2004); Rebecca Snow (Retail Management, 2004); Dawn Sewell (Retail Management, 2004); Jacqui Bark, née Pain, (Retail Management, 2004); Charlotte Pain (Management Science, 2002); Matthew Negus (Accounting and Finance, 2004) Sam Akinluyi (Accounting and Finance, 2004); Simon Tucker (Retail Management, 2004) and Michael Lyons (Sports Science with Management, 2003).

Emma Commons (Management Science, 2005) and Alex Porter (Mathematics, 2003) married on 28 May 2011 at Quorn Country Hotel, Loughborough. Amongst the guests was fellow Loughborough University graduate, Gavin Helmore (Chemistry, 2003).

Gillian Edwards (Library Studies and English, 1986) and Jenny Fay (Library Studies and History, 1986) appeared on the BBC1 daytime quiz Pointless at the end of July, narrowly missing out on the cash jackpot. The show, hosted by comedian and actor Alexander Armstrong, asks competitors to give the lowest scoring or pointless answer in a series of public surveys. Gillian and Jenny managed to defeat the competition, but were unfortunately unable to secure the jackpot by giving a pointless answer. They did, however, both receive a trophy for their efforts.

70sProfessor Russell Bowden (Library and Information Studies, 1974) was recently awarded an MPhil by Kelaniya University in Sri Lanka, where he is working towards a PhD in Buddhist Studies. He retired as Deputy Chief Executive of The Library Association in 1994 and was elected First Vice-President of IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations) in 1995. He continues his involvement in LIS as UGC nominee on the Board of Management of the National Institute of Library and Information Sciences (University of Colombo). He is also a Fellow and Council member of the Sri Lanka Library Association and is the elected Honorary Librarian of the Royal Asiatic Society of Sri Lanka. He can be contacted at [email protected]

Jenny Fay (left) and Gillian Edwards

Chris Knowles Tina Bodell and Rob Keates

Victoria Clark and Tom Boneham

Alex Porter and Emma Commons

Laura Jane Cahill and Craig Bowley

life after loughborough | 31

Page 34: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Jonathan Cooper (Computing and Management, 2003) and Kate Maplesden (Information Management and Computing, 2006) were married on 9 April 2011, having met eight years earlier whilst at Loughborough.

Kevin Earing (BSc Maths and Financial Management, 2003; MSc Mathematical Modelling, 2005) and Catherine Cooper (BSc Ergonomics, 2006) married on 29 May 2011 at Chilford Hall in Cambridge. They met at Loughborough, in 2003, when Catherine was a fresher and Kevin, a finalist. Kevin returned to do his masters and they lived together in Falkner Eggington Court. They were joined on the day by many fellow alumni, including Best Man Matthew Kilgarriff (Aeronautical Engineering, 2003) and bridesmaids Carrie Service (English, 2007) and Natalie Wetton (Mathematics, 2005).

Laura Gallop (Sport Science and Management, 2005) married Phil Stocker (Sports Technology, 2005) in the Dominican Republic on 18 May 2011. They met while playing water polo at Loughborough and their relationship flourished on a sports tour to Lloret de Mar in 2004. In a small wedding party of 24 guests, Loughborough graduates included Becky Turner (Sport and Exercise Science, 2005); Lucy Smith, née Clark (Sport Science and Maths, 2005); Brad Watson (Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying, 2005); Bruce Hutchison (Banking and Financial Management, 2006); Kim Bartholomew (Sport Science and Social Science, 2005); Jonny Stillwell (Graphic Communication,

2007) and Ollie Mead (Accounting and Financial Management, 2005).

The wedding of Lee Gzyl (Aeronautical Engineering, 2005) and Sarah Gonzalez (Social Policy and Social Issues, 2006) took place at St Mary’s Church, Worlingworth on 3 September 2011, followed by a reception at Athelington Hall. Craig Bowley (Politics with English, 2005; MA International Relations, 2008) was best man.

Will Hamley, who lectured in Geography at Loughborough between 1972-98 has recently published a novel. The story follows the fortunes of an indecisive candidate in a parliamentary by-election. The cast of characters and their activities are described with sympathetic understanding and offer much humour in a panorama of 1950s life, love and politics in a Welsh mining community. The Candidate is available from Llanerch Press. Find out more by visiting www.llanerchpress.com

Karl Jones (Automotive Engineering, 2010) won the Bentley Award for Best Mechanical Engineering student of the year at the annual Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) Awards in 2010. He is currently working as a Finite Element Analyst on the graduate scheme at Bentley Motors Limited.

Steven Morris (Information Science and Computing, 2006) and Heather Morris, née Smith (Sociology, 2004) were married on 23 April 2011 in Alderley Edge. Steven and Heather met at Loughborough and lived in William Morris Halls. Loughborough alumni

guests included Best Man, Depal Patel (Mechanical Engineering, 2006); Groom’s Man, Andrew Ross (Sport and Leisure Management, 2006); David Morris (Information Science and Computing, 2007) and Matthew Boyns (Mechanical Engineering, 2006).

Kirsty Southwell (Graphic Communication, 2006) married Stuart Jones (Product Design and Manufacturing, 2007) at St Peter’s Church, Pedmore on May 7 2011. They met in Harry French in 2003 and have enjoyed an amazing eight years together, including living in New Zealand for a year.

Anne-Marie Brownlee (Publishing with English, 2004) married Robert Jarvis (Computing and Management, 2006) on

Laura Gallop and Phil StockerJonathan Cooper and Kate Maplesden

Catherine Cooper and Kevin Earing Lee Gzyl and Sarah Gonzalez

Kirsty Southwell and Stuart Jones

Heather Smith and Steven Morris

Anne-Marie Brownlee and Robert Jarvis

2 July 2011 at Rothley Court, Leicestershire. Bridemaids Karen Quarterman (Multimedia and Textiles, 2001) and Annabell Goode (Publishing with English, 2004) were also Loughborough alumni, as was the Best Man Paul Edwards (Manufacturing Engineering and Marketing, 2006). Other alumni in attendance included usher Dan Harrison (Mechanical Engineering, 2005), Edward Perkins (Information Management and Business, 2004), Paul Trimmer (Information Management and Business, 2004), Henry Taylor (Economics, 2004), Nicola Binks (Computing and Management, 2005), Martin Earl (Computing and Management, 2005) and Jonny Salisbury (Printed Textile Design, 2006).

32 | life after loughborough

Page 35: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

obituariesBrian Beaver (Civil Engineering, 1953) passed away on 22 July 2011. His daughter, Marion Beaver (Materials Engineering, 1986) would like to hear from anybody who studied with or resided in Maplewell Hall with her father. You can contact Marion at [email protected]

George Bragg (Physical Education, 1957) passed away on 7 February 2009 in Southwell, Nottinghamshire.

Ben Bird (Design and Technology, 1992) passed away on 8 May 2010.

Robert Cousins (General Engineering, 1936) passed away on 8 April 2011.

Derek William Devitt (PGCE, 1988) passed away on 15 March 2011.

Paul Duggan (Chemistry, 1983) passed away on 26 August 2010.

Doctor Sam Ferris (Physics, 1953) passed away on 5 May 2011.

Alan Harpley (Human Biology, 1989) passed away on 21 March 2011.

Jim Hodgeon (Computer Studies, 1990) passed away on 22 January 2011. He was married to Sandra for 12 years and worked mainly in the telecoms and healthcare industries.

Jacqueline Howard passed away on 9 June 2011. Jacqueline worked as a technician in the Chemistry laboratories for many years.

where are they now?Alumni regularly ask for help in contacting former Loughborough friends and colleagues they have lost touch with over the years and would like to be reunited with.

Can you help? If so, please get in touch.

Robert Cummings (Economics and Social History, 1973) would love to hear from alumni who may have known or studied with him during his time at Loughborough. If you would like to contact Robert, you can do so at [email protected] or by calling 01423 869629.

Robert would also like to hear from anybody who knows the whereabouts of Doctor Ian Keil, Professor Swan (Head of Economics) and David Arthur (Academic Registrar) who he had contact with at the time.

Stephen Appleby (Handicraft, 1944) would love to hear from any alumni who graduated in Handicraft between 1942-44. You can contact Stephen by telephone on 01539 725449 or by email at [email protected]

Charles Bristow (Electronic and Electrical Engineering, 1974) would like to hear from anybody who is in touch with or knows the whereabouts of Graham Bell (Auto Engineering and Design, 1975).

He would also like to be kept informed of any reunions being held by classes of 1970-74.

You can contact Charles at [email protected]

Keith Kennerley (Handicraft, 1945) passed away on 5 March 2011.

Ronald Lynch (Production Engineering, 1962) passed away on 6 June 2011. Ronald had a distinguished career in engineering and later became involved in property development.

Doctor Thomas Moss (Mathematics, 2000) passed away on 14 September 2010.

Philip Newell (Aeronautical Engineering and Design, 1973) passed away on 8 June 2011. He would have been married to wife, Kate, for 38 years in August 2011.

Derek John Parkyn (Electrical Engineering, 1960) passed away on 17 April 2011.

Alan Talbot (Mechanical Engineering Cadet, 1946) passed away on 22 July 2011.

Lisa Marie Taylor (Sociology, 1994) passed away on 12 February 2011. She met husband Martin Taylor-Smith (Civil Engineering, 1994) whilst they were both students at Loughborough. Lisa and Martin married in 2005.

Eileen Warren (Printmaking, 1998) passed away on 28 February 2010.

David Welch (Physical Education, 1969) passed away on 29 June 2011.

John Alfred Wright (Civil Engineering, 1947) passed away 23 July 2010.

International Alumni AmbassadorsArgentina Manuel Costa E: [email protected] T: +54 11 42524475M: +54 911 54661371

AustraliaMelbourneJamal Kadir E: [email protected] T: +60 3 9534 0845M: +61 408 05 26 25

New South WalesJames Scott E: [email protected] M: 61403399011

Bahrain Deya Towfiqi E: [email protected]: 973 17 822006M: 973 39663999

Canada Sam Sussman E: [email protected] T: 00 1 519 858 0023

ChinaJulia ShenE: [email protected]: 00 86 13428902545

Cyprus Dino Loyides E: [email protected] T: 00357 233 8646

GreeceGeorge Tzogopoulos E: [email protected]

Hong KongPatrick Lee E: [email protected] T: 852 9186 6326

India Delhi Gaurav SegatE: [email protected]: 91 011 221 52193

IndonesiaWimboh SantosoE: [email protected]

ItalyIrfan KhanE: [email protected]: 00 39 328 2060 214

JapanPreparatory Committee for The Japan AlumniDr Kazuki OkaE: [email protected]

JordanDr Ammar NatshehE: [email protected]: +962 6 5236765

Kenya Lucas KilembaE: [email protected]

MauritiusDeerajen RamasawmyE: [email protected] T: 230 790 7154M: +230 790 7154

The Netherlands Ralph N R van OsE: [email protected]: (+31) (0)6 24240644

New ZealandAj AliE: [email protected]: 6421 781 333

NigeriaHakeem OtitiE: [email protected]: 07783 790251

Norway Scott RönnesE: [email protected]: +47 66847070M: +47 900 49 145

OmanK Pawan KumarE: [email protected]: +968 95755826

PakistanQasim BashirE: [email protected]: +92(0) 333 9626670

Philippines John Lee CreaseyE: [email protected]: (63)-2 567 4129M: (63) 908 8720377

SingaporeChristopher SeeE: [email protected]

Sri LankaMervyn GunasekeraE: [email protected]: 00 94 11 2561275 M: 00 94 77 3045344

TaiwanVince ChenE: [email protected]: 886 988 621 748

ThailandMs Nat Petpaisit E: [email protected]

USAIan LinkE: [email protected]: 01 914 948 2707

life after loughborough | 33

Page 36: Loughborough University Alumni Magazine - Autumn 2011

Exclusive Benefits for Loughborough Alumni

Take advantage of our exclusive bursaries for discounts on Postgraduate Tuition Fees

Many schools/departments offer a £1000 bursary towards your Postgraduate tuition fees.

Make the most of the funding that is available to you and further your studies at Loughborough.

ContactE: [email protected]: +44 (0)1509 222496 www.lboro.ac.uk/funding