One of the many half tone reproductions by Mr. F. Sheppard of the Verney Hostel
One of the many half tone reproductions by
Mr. F. Sheppard of
the Verney Hostel
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After 1945 Mr Miller the then head of the printing department put in place a seven year apprenticeship for the boys in the Printing department. This ensured they would be accepted as craftsmen at the end of their "time" as it was known. It also meant that they would need to find alternative accommodation away from Goldings. A property in the local village called Waterford House had come up for sale, but was a little run down. (read below bottom winter 1950 notes) The Verney which unofficially was called The Country House opened in 1950 with the first party of printer apprentices arriving in May of that year on their leg into the big wide world. The Verney in Waterford would give them a different status and more independence, plus having to look after themselves. The apprentices were then expected to find accommodation locally, some apprentices found themselves in the tower at Goldings as rooms at The Verney were needed.
Over the years many people came to look after the Verney after the first Landlords Mr. and Mrs. Corbett. Then In 1952 Mr. and Mrs. Embleton agreed to take charge of the Verney and for six years, they made the Verney into a real home for the boys. Then in 1958 Mr. and Mrs. Newton took over till 1965 when Mr. and Mrs. Tordoff took over the running of the house. Jack Cooper also looked after the cooking for the poor starving apprentices for a short time. Who remembers the local vet Mr. Silcock who used to live in the house on the green? The Verney remained as accommodation for the apprentices for a few years after Goldings closed. The Verney was then used by Barnardo's to house their senior management. The last being Rodger Singleton. For some information on Waterford that includes Goldings click here |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. F Tordoff Although the Verney may well be carrying on with its service as a hostel for apprentice printers, we are all aware that this will be the last edition in which we shall be able to contribute. It is due to this that there is some uncertainty in my thoughts as to what theme to use for this Piece, de resistance of all past editions. May I be allowed first of all to say on behalf of all at The Verney that like all others involved, the closure of the School will be a great loss. We, the printing apprentices, are perhaps the most fortunate in this whole affair, for as many of you know the Printing Department is to remain. As this is the last chance of saying farewell, may I wish all boys and staff a happy and successful future wherever they may go. Since our last edition the following boys have departed, not only from The Verney but also from the Printing Department. Ray Merrifield, who has joined the Army, David Oliver left to take up other employment, Roy Harding who has also gone into other fields, and Gordon Hughes who has moved into lodgings. In our last notes it was stated that Derek Hammond, John Foote, and Robert Buggs had moved into lodgings. It would seem that the 'outside world' is indeed hard, because these three 'prodigal sons' have now returned home and are once more resident in The Verney. Our new additions have been Ray Hillier, who only stayed a short while before transferring to lodgings in Hoddesdon, Angus McGeoch and Michael Tilbury. On October the 29th there was a social evening at The Verney which was well attended by members of staff and apprentice. A big 'thank you' to all concerned in making this evening possible, There was also the Party at the School to which all apprentices were invited and accepted, and which turned out to be good fun for all who were there. We are all making good use of the 'Old Windmill' restaurant in Waterford, which has become quite a night spot in our simple village life. It is also very noticeable that many bicycles are coming into existence again. Robert Acton ('Ackers') has made a very good attempt at producing a road-worthy model from a battered old crock. On the other hand Angus ('Hermoine') took the easy path and had his own cycle transported from home. He tells us that it is insured (doesn't he trust us?). In February Mr. and Mrs. Tordoff were away on a course, and we had Mr. and Mrs. Hooper looking after our domestic interests for a while. We still have Miss Wilson working as hard as ever to satisfy the ever hungry 'inner men' of all of us, and Mrs. Ephgrave doing her best to keep the house like home. We all hope that the 'wheels' of the Verney will continue to turn for many years to come. Robert Buggs |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. F Tordoff How time flies. By the time these notes are being read it will be eighteen months since we moved into The Verney, during which time we have seen almost a complete turnover of apprentices. Since the publication of the last GOLDONIAN the following have moved into lodgings: Derek Hammond. John Foote, and Robert Buggs. Martin Masterson-Andrews joined the Army. The latter called upon us recently, is very fit and well and assured us that he is very happy in the army. Victor Chan has unfortunately been in hospital for several weeks but was sufficiently recovered to pay us a visit, along with his father on Monday, 9th May, Victor's 21st birthday. We all wish him well in the future. The following have joined us: Barry West, Roy Harding, and Raymond Merrifield, and we hope that their stay will be a happy one. R. Buggs after only two months stay decided to try his luck in lodgings. Which reminds me that The Verney used to be regarded and known as 'Half-way House' although it seems to get stretched to three-quarters, seven-eighths and nine-tenths in some cases these days! A very pleasant and informative Sunday evening was spent in January when Miss Elton, the School Matron, visited us and projected a varied selection of transparencies showing us many views and the flora and fauna of South Africa. We were on this occasion joined by members of the Hertford Methodist Youth Fellowship. The conscientious weekly hour spent gardening by some of our apprentices' is resulting in a gradual transformation of the garden, and no doubt by the time these notes are being read a very good show of roses will have appeared, we hope. Favourable comments, which come to our notice, made by passers by, indicate that these efforts do not go unnoticed. Unfortunately it has not been dry enough yet to play tennis but the enforced rest will no doubt benefit the turf and give some of the places, which had to be re-sown a chance to recover more fully. Mrs. Ephgrave continues to keep everything spic and span and Miss Wilson attends to the wants of the inner man. We are very fortunate in having two such capable and conscientious workers. To them, and to all the apprentices we extend our best wishes for a very happy summer holiday. D. AND F. TORDOFF |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. F Tordoff No doubt the most important happening at The Verney during the present term has been the arrival of Miss Wilson our Cook. Her ability as a cook has already been made manifest and we hope that her stay with us will be a long and happy one. We are also grateful to Mrs. Whittaker for the help which she gave in the kitchen and also to Mrs. Ephgrave, who as ever gave of herself unstintingly. Towards the end of last term a second visit was paid by the members of the Hertford Methodist Youth Fellowship. On Sunday evening, 28th March, a discussion took place on racial integration which was very ably introduced by Richard Flavel, one of the visitors. Although the number of residents who attended the discussion was small a very interesting time was enjoyed by those who did. We were pleased that Glyn Parry was able to join us on this occasion and make his very worthwhile contribution. On 8th April members of the Hertford Group of the English Folk Dance and Song Society along with their leader Mrs. McIntosh came along to the Verney and organized an evening of Folk Dancing. Once again this was a most enjoyable event and we are deeply indebted to those who contributed and made the evening possible. Work in the garden has commenced this term and a noticeable improvement has been remarked upon by more than one passer-by. The tennis court has been prepared and is now in use. Unfortunately some of the equipment has seen better days and at the moment of writing these notes one rather small member of the house, who shall remain nameless, is finding it rather hazardous standing in the centre of the court supporting the net whilst tennis balls are whizzing by. As keen horticulturalists seem to be scarce at The Verney it is intended to sow more lawn so that it might be possible to make more use of it and incidentally reduce the amount of digging required. To complete the decoration of the kitchen a bright cheery red and fawn tiled floor has been laid. Further improvements have been four additional wash basins in the students' bedrooms and the tiling of the bathroom and toilet floors. Keith McSweeney, who joined The Verney during May, is proving himself a worthwhile member of the community and setting a standard of cleanliness and tidiness which it would be pleasing to see some others follow. Wherever the summer holiday may find the members of the household we trust that a happy time will be enjoyed. D. AND F. TORDOFF |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. F Tordoff Since the last GOLDONIAN we have said goodbye to our 'landlady and landlord', Mr. and, Mrs. R. Newton, who left us early in January. On behalf of all Verney boys, past and present; I would like to thank. Mr. and Mrs, Newton for their loyal devotion to us, and with an extra; word of thanks to Mrs. Newton who took over the duties of cook when we were without one. Naturally it seems very strange since they left, but changes always take some time to get used to. We wish Mr. Newton every success in his new job, and hope that Mrs. Newton enjoys her leisure hours which she will now have. We welcome Mr. and Mrs. Tordoff, who have taken over the duties of looking after us, and trust they will not find life too hard, and enjoy their new surroundings. The following apprentices have joined us from the School, and it is to be hoped that they will carry on the traditions of their predecessors, and enjoy themselves at the same time helping other people. Michael Cousins, Derek Hammond, 'Gordon Hughes, Robert Acton, Alan Bayliss, Michael Longman, Martin Masterson-Andrews, and Robert Hendry. Richard Rowles, John (Blackie) Blackman, James Pooley, and Glynn Parry have now gone into lodgings, and 'Blackie' has also left the district having completed his apprenticeship. We wish him all the best of luck. Now that we have got the 'prelims' sorted out we can start on the social side. Mr. and Mrs. Tordoff have given us a lot of help, starting off with a Folk Dance evening, which was very enjoyable although at first we were a bit apprehensive. However, we soon joined in and had a jolly good time. We would like to thank the members of the Folk Dance and Song Society, especially Mrs. Macintosh, who made such an enjoyable evening possible. On Sunday, 14th February, we had a discussion group here from Hertford Methodist Youth Club. Unfortunately I was not present, but from reports received it was an excellent evening. The subject under discussion was 'Why go to Church?' and ended up with comparing Christianity with Communism! Saturday, 13th March, was 'Social Night' when we entertained some members of staff and a number of young ladies. (Where the latter came from we don't quite know, but they were all very nice.) We all had a very enjoyable evening mixing dancing and games with a nice long interval to partake of some smashing refreshments prepared by Mrs. Tordoff and cook. We held our second discussion group on 28th March, this time the subject was 'Racial Integration', and many points of view were examined. Likewise suggestions as to the best way to get rid of 'race hate' were looked into. We hope to have another such evening at a later date, although the subject for discussion has not yet been decided upon. We are all looking forward to the next Folk Dance, and feel sure this will be another success. Finally I would like to wish the staff and all boys a very happy Easter holiday. GORDON HUGHES |
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"THE VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton The Principal activity at the Verney is the coming and going of people, unfortunately there is more 'going' by staff than boys. We were terribly sorry to have to say farewell to our cook this term, Mrs. Tomlinson; she was a delightful person and a splendid cook. Owing to a fatal car accident in which her daughter was killed Mrs. Tomlinson had to leave to take care of her granddaughter. We all wish her well for the future. However, Mrs. Tomlinson was quickly replaced by Mr. Long, who transferred from our branch home at Leicester to join us as cook. Unfortunately Mr. Long had greater desires for the duties of housemaster and left us in November to join the London County Council in this capacity. We wish him well in his new job. We also said our farewells to Willie Hewitt this term, who left us to go into digs. He also has plans to be married at the end of the year and we all wish him and his wife to be, much happiness. Guy Fawkes never knew quite what he started three hundred years ago, but if nothing else it gives us an excuse at The Verney to have a bonfire and thus dispose of the rubbish and junk which is inclined to accumulate over the year; a pleasant evening of fireworks, toffee apples, and hot dogs was enjoyed by the boys and guests. We welcomed Chris Berry to the flock last month and hope he enjoys his stay with us. My family would like to take this opportunity to thank the boys and staff at The Verney for their co-operation over the past year, and to wish every reader of the School Magazine a joyful Christmas and a happy New Year. R. N. |
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"THE VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton After five months without a cook at the Verney we welcome Mrs. Tomlinson, and hope she will be with us for a long time, not just because she's a nice person but she is also a jolly good cook which is appreciated by us all.
We said farewell to Bob Roberts last term who left us to get married; congratulations Bob and best wishes. This is one way of getting our old boys out to make way for new apprentices-marry them off! We welcomed Len Carroll to the fold and hope he enjoys his stay.
The Verney boys, in spite of old age, still find time to subscribe to activities, volunteers are still to be found to do telephone duty at the local hospital and over the last year £6 has been collected from boys and staff at the Verney for OXFAM. R. N. |
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"THE VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton Very much in the doldrums at The Verney owing to the loss of our cook Mrs. Kemp, now three months since we lost her and still without. It has improved my cooking abilities for which the Verney boys have suffered but I am sure the campers will eventually appreciate. Mrs. Newton and Mrs. Ephgrave are keeping the pot boiling, or perhaps simmering is the word, at the moment, but if anyone knows of a cook who would be appreciated by fourteen healthy young men please let us know. Even with the handicap of being without a cook we held our New years' party. It is often said one only knows one's friends in difficult times, this was certainly true of our party, the ladies, too many to mention, came to our aid and produced delicious cakes and the like which in fact lasted us a week! Thank you all, it was wonderful. The response was reflected at the social itself; we decided on a 'Fancy Hat' affair and everyone took up the challenge some of the creations would have put the Chelsea Arts Ball in the shade without a doubt the most successful function we have had. Comings and goings' are still principally concerned with those who go out to digs and those who rejoin us from digs. Having said farewell to Geoff Forster and David Lee we welcomed back Cliff Sainsbury and Winston Norton. Bernard Munro and George Turner joined us from the school, both have settled in and we hope they enjoy their stay. The Christmas pantomime was a great success again this year and once again a great deal of its success was due to the many apprentices who participated and helped in various ways, a grand effort and many thanks. R. N. |
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"THE VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton
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"THE VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton FARE WELLS, GREETINGS, and social functions seem to have been our principal activities this term. Once again Clive Lewis left us for 'digs', and once again David Lee has joined us owing to the fact that his landlady is moving. Arthur Knight and David Hilton have left us and gone into lodgings. I hope they enjoyed their stay with us, we wish them well. We have been joined by Leslie Browning and Richard Rowles who we hope will settle in and enjoy their stay. We began the year with our New Year party which seemingly was enjoyed by our guests it was made the more enjoyable by the refreshments which were prepared by Mesdames Newton, Kemp, and Ephgraves, who were assisted by the wives of staff who always help us out. Thank you ladies! Over the past year the link between our chaps and the young ladies of Balls Park Training College has become so strong that they seem almost members of the family. Every Tuesday evening we have some fourteen ladies at our dancing class and every Friday some fourteen of our lads go to Balls Park dancing class; if nothing else develops from this relationship at least the dancing should improve! Our chaps played a prominent part in the College Rag even to supplying the mascot, we are thick indeed. So much have our chaps been entertained at Balls Park that they requested the Head Master's permission to run a dance in the gymnasium on Saturday, 10th March. The dance took place and what a wonderful evening it turned out to be. A charge was made to cover refreshments and the purchase of decorations, ninety people turned up and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Congratulations to the boys for their enterprise and hard work in preparing and transforming the gym. A special thanks again to the wives of staff who assisted with refreshments and supplied such wonderful 'home cooking'. R. N. I would like as one of the guests who attended both the Christmas Party and the dance, to publicly applaud this wonderful family spirit that exists at the Verney. With Mr. and Mrs. Newton at the helm, with Mrs. Kemp and Mrs. Ephgrave backing them up to the hilt, they have steered these fourteen apprentices (and of course many 'fourteens' before), quietly and unobtrusively into the right sort of company, and I would say no bunch of teenagers have ever enjoyed being 'steered' more. No praise is too high for the young ladies from Balls Park who have co-operated so whole-heartedly in this 'merger', and who have probably 'brought our boys out' easier than any of us 'wise old fathers' could have done. I am quite sure some of us 'old uns' would like to turn the clock back to have the opportunity of being 'brought out' in a similar manner! Oh to have been a mascot, or even a lucky charm!
Back two guys John Mcleer, Dave Mundy, we shared the same room at the Verney. Extreme left Bill Charlton, Dave Hilton, you can just see part head of Eric Holden behind him. Holding my right leg Dug Webster under same leg Jock Wellwood behind my right shoulder Geoff Foster, yours truly Lew Lewis (on top) left shoulder Winston Norton, guy behind Winston is Stuart Law extreme right Derek Brewer. This photo was taken outside the print shop, The picture was taken by Tony Lydford, he was always there with camera in hand. God bless him. What would we do without these wonderful memories. He would have the photos developed and take orders from the prints. Subject to which you will find there should be several copies floating around somewhere. Clive "Lew" Lewis and Brian Ball
So what was it like living at the Verney away from Goldings, what time did they turn in, did they say grace. Did Bob Newton also pinch their noses and tell them to knock it off. All that and more will be revealed, written by the Head to be of the printing school when it moved from Goldings. 'RISE AND SHINE'. Every morning this is the way we're greeted as Mr. Newton does his rounds at 7.15 a.m. A couple of boys hurry to get up and get to the sink for their morning 'sprinkle'. Others try to have a couple of minutes longer in bed, but aren't usually successful as Mr. Newton knows it all. The 'early boy' and the 'toaster' go down stairs to the warm paradise of the kitchen to get our breakfast laid up. Mrs. Kemp then asks the 'early boy' to 'ring Mr. Newton and bash the gong'. We crawl down the stairs and settle down in our seats for breakfast. 'Can we say grace?: Mr. Newton says 'For what we ... ' 'Amen', and breakfast has begun. After breakfast, into the common room to 'light-up' and sit down until 8.30 when we go to work. 'Half-past; coming up?' and every one enthusiastically ( ?) rushes off to work. Passing the Waterford bus stop a few 'good mornings' with a few put on smiles are exchanged. Three boys pass on their bikes and shout such things as 'woop' and "ning'. Up Goldings Lane and down the drive into the Printing Department. 'I'm in, Mr. Stevenson' utter a few people so as to be marked on the time sheet. Then we all settle down to work until our 10.30 a.m. break when once again it's 'light-up' time. 'Fags' finished, it's back to work until 12.15 p.m. when we trundle up to the School for dinner. Usually we sit for 15 minutes in the wind-tunnel type corridor until cookhouse is blown. After dinner it's time for our game of football. No one is willing to take the responsibility of picking a team and the usual remarks of 'I picked up yesterday (or three weeks ago) so it's someone else's turn'. But eventually the teams are picked and we're off. 'Goal' someone shouts, 'never, it hit the post' (usually a pile of jackets) so there is a dispute over that. 1.25 p.m. so it's back to work, where half an hour is usually spent 'cooling off'. At 3 p.m. back down for a smoke, and then work again until 5 o'clock. Tea is usually at 5.30 p.m. and then after tea we retire to the common room and wonder what to do with ourselves until 'lights out' at 11 p.m. Some go up to the Club, others (the luckier ones) go to the pictures, while the rest either watch TV or listen to records. Two nights a week we go dancing so there's no trouble there. 'Who's going to help get the- supper up?' someone asks. No reply so he does it himself. 'Suppers ready' and everyone jumps up for dining room. 'Arter you with the grog', 'Pass the marg', come the requests. Then back to the common room, until 10-45 p.m. 'Right-ho lads', Mr. Newton says, and everybody drags themselves up to bed. 'Good night all', and another day at The Verney comes to an end. But nevertheless, it's a grand life (if you don't worry). W. CHARLTON |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton Farewells, Greetings and social functions seem to have been our principle activities this term. Once again Clive Lewis left us for 'digs', and once again David Lee has joined us owing to the fact that his landlady. is moving. Arthur Knight and David Hilton have left us and gone into lodgings. I hope they enjoyed their stay with us, we wish them well. We have been joined by Leslie Browning and Richard Rowles who we hope will settle in and enjoy their stay. We began the year with our New Year party which seemingly was enjoyed by our guests-it was made the more enjoyable by the refreshments which were prepared by Mesdames Newton, Kemp, and Ephgraves, who were assisted by the wives of staff who always help us out. Thank you ladies! Over the past year the link between our chaps and the young ladies of Balls Park Training College has become so strong that they seem almost members of the family. Every Tuesday evening we have some fourteen ladies at our dancing class and every Friday some fourteen of our lads go to Balls Park dancing class; if nothing else develops from this relationship at least the dancing should improve! Our chaps played a prominent part in the College Rag even to supplying the mascot, we are thick indeed. So much have our chaps been entertained at Balls Park that they requested the Headmaster's permission to run a dance in the gymnasium on Saturday, 10th March. The dance took place and what a wonderful evening it turned out to be. A charge was made to cover refreshments and the purchase of decorations, ninety people turned up and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Congratulations to the boys for their enterprise and hard work in preparing and transforming the gym. A special thanks again to the wives of staff who assisted with refreshments and supplied such wonderful 'home cooking'. R. N. I would like as one of the guests who attended both the Christmas Party and the dance, to publicly applaud this wonderful family spirit that exists at the Verney. With Mr. and Mrs. Newton at the helm, with Mrs. Kemp and Mrs. Ephgrave backing them up to the hilt, they have steered these fourteen apprentices (and of course many 'fourteens' before), quietly and unobtrusively into the right sort of company, and I would say no bunch of teenagers have ever enjoyed being 'steered' more. No praise is too high for the young ladies from Balls Park who have co-operated so whole-heartedly in this 'merger', and who have probably 'brought our boys out' easier than any of us 'wise old fathers' could have done. I am quite sure some of us 'old uns' would like to turn the clock back to have the opportunity of being 'brought out' in a similar manner! Oh to have been a mascot, or even a lucky charm! ED. |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton Many changes to report this term, and the greatest of all is our interior. There is paint and paper everywhere, Mr. Moules and his boys are certainly doing a good job for us. The whole house is a hive of industry, with Mrs. Newton making new curtains and chair covers, Mrs. Kemp reorganizing her rooms. Even our latest guest, Mr. Hurd, is moving into a smart new room, which used to be known as Jack's (Cooper) room. We really are looking swell, and looking forward to having a social evening shortly as a 'house warming'. We welcomed Clittord Sainsbury into the flock this term and hope he enjoys his stay. Tony Coman left us to go into 'digs' and he seems to have landed on his feet, having been accepted as one of the family. When we returned from Dymchurch we were met on the doorstep by Clive Lewis, who found that his lodgings were not so good after all, so he decided to return to the country house, it must be our cooking! A new and welcome member to our staff this term is Mrs. Ephgraves, who has made many friends already with her pleasant and winning manner. We hope she will stay with us for a long time. Pantomime is in full swing, and it is most encouraging to have the support of so many Verney boys and other Printer apprentices who have actually left our home, but are pleased to participate in the School activity. R. N. |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton ONCE AGAIN the Verney has seen a number of changes in staff and boys this term. Early in September our cook, Mrs. Cruickshank, left us to take up a post in Bath; her duties have been taken over by Mrs. Kemp and her cooking is in keeping with her personality both are very popular. Mrs. Kemp's domestic duties have been taken over by Mrs. Wrangles whom we hope will enjoy working with us. Four new members of the family were welcomed in September, namely G. Forster, D. Lee, J. Blackman, and D. Charlton; we hope they enjoy their stay with us for the next eighteen months or so. Early in October we held a Social Evening which was a great success and enjoyed by all. We were, of course, grateful to our guests for being good 'sports' and helping to make the evening go so well. I regret to report the absence of Jim Fasanya who was rushed to hospital for an appendicitis operation this month; he is progressing well and should be with us again shortly, sorry you missed the social Jim! R. N. Mr. and Mrs. Newton and the apprentices at the Verney had to say goodbye to Mrs. Cruickshank and her pet and constant companion 'Boy', when they moved to a new situation in Bath. I know all old Verney boys will be sorry to know that 'Boy' died at the end of October, as a result of a stomach disorder, and it was a very heart broken mistress who wrote and told me the sad news. |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton Winter Colds and chills have taken their toll at the Verney this year, hardly a week having passed when we haven't had someone 'down', or is it the comfort and the service? We are all pleased to have Mrs. Cruickshank back after her illness and hope she keeps well-'absence makes the stomach hunger'-it also helps one to appreciate a good cook. Once again we said our farewells to chaps going into 'digs', namely John Hilton, Derek Brewer, and Tony Lydford. Farewells at the Verney also mean welcome to new faces and I hope new members David Hilton, Tony Coman, Arthur Knight, Clive Lewis, and David Mundy enjoy their stay with us. Mrs. Cranie left us to return to the 'House' after being with us for six months; we enjoyed having you Mrs. Cranie and we miss your pleasant smile; good wishes and thanks from us all. Mrs. Kemp, who replaces Mrs. Cranie, is settling down and I hope she enjoys her stay with us; daughter Julie seems to like it and is now a member of the family. We entered a 'Verney' table-tennis team in the league this year, about which I shall not comment. A TALE SAD TO RELATE Once upon a time there was a keen old cockerel who begat himself fourteen young chicks, healthy, active virile fellows. One day there came news that a terrible weird monster had come into the area, hungry, vicious, as wide as he was tall, with one large wicked eye in the centre of its head. Terrible tales were told of this creature, how it held its victims in a hypnotic state by offering mirages of nice things, holding its victim spellbound until they wasted away, too weak to defend themselves and were carried off to another world. Like all young chicks, heedless of advice, they were curious and one day ventured forth to sneak a peek at this strange and terrible thing. Too late, held and hypnotized, their eyes took on a strange. square shape and they were transferred to that other world. R. N. |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton The coming of spring and the beautiful weather of the past two months has the Verney looking at its best. The setting is most attractive and we used this to the full when at the end of May on a pleasant evening we held a "barbecue" on the tennis court. Everyone enjoyed themselves and the boys certainly worked to make it a success. Colin Addinall and Jim Murrell cooked the "hot dogs", Bob Bone and Mick Kerr "flogged" the "pop" and crisps, Ted Townsend was the "char walla" and Tony Lydford collected the "gate" money. During the evening we were entertained by the skiffle group. We were also aided in our efforts to please by an accordionist, Mr. R. Head, and a pianist, none other than Mr. Mondin. Arthur Robertson did a good job with the records for dancing. We were all most grateful to Mr. Wilkins for his help. We may hold another later in the summer with the condition of entry being "fancy dress". Lodgings are becoming rather difficult to obtain locally and we find our boys are staying a little longer which in its turn is causing a bottleneck for new apprentices, and in order to alleviate this we are increasing our numbers. The first to join us as an addition is David Goldsmith we hope he enjoys his stay with us. We are very pleased to welcome Mrs. Cruickshank as cook to our establishment, as well as her doggy friend "Boy", who is already a great favourite with the lads. We hope their stay with us will be long and happy. Early in June we had a week-end visit from Mr. Tucker which we all enjoyed very much, particularly his stories, not to mention his tennis. R. N.
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Photo above taken by David Smith of Philip Arends on the front step of the Verney. Philip had ambitions to be a singer while at Goldings. From information received Philip had a stint of singing professionally with a big band in Liverpool and even had one session broadcast on the radio back in 1957. He had a great voice but he eventually fell in love and married. This information was from his brother Peter who now lives in the USA. |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton Since the last GOLDONIAN we have had a few earnings and goings. Firstly we lost our cook, Miss McGuire, through ill health; we all wish her well. Mrs Vince is holding the reins, or should I say pots and pans, and very well too. She does us proud. We welcome Mrs. Beadle to the staff who is helping out until we get a replacement. Last term also saw Tom (Casey) Turner out and into digs and Bob Robson, who was lodging temporarily with us for a few months. The newcomer is Jim Murrell who I hope enjoys his stay he certainly enjoys his food! A most pleasant Christmas was had by all with a nice little family party on Christmas Night. Early in January we had the official party which was a great success. Owing to influenza we did not have a social in February but we started March with a Staff v Verney table tennis match. R.N. |
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Newton Since taking over the hostel from Mr. and Mrs. Embleton in September, Mrs. Newton and I are enjoying the association of fourteen senior boys very much. I hope the enjoyment is reciprocal. During September we held a Table Tennis evening, the Verney v. Mr. Millar's Team, and although the result is still unknown it was most enjoyable. We also said farewell to Stanley Maddigan who left us to go into lodgings and welcomed D. Brewer, J. McLeer and ex-school captain J. Hilton. I hope they enjoy their stay. A Whist Drive was held in October at which members of staff attended; it also gave us at the Verney the opportunity of saying thank you and farewell to Miss Peacock, our cook; she had been with the Homes for four years. The boys of the Verney, past and present, subscribed and bought her a travelling clock, which was presented by Tom Turner. We welcome Miss McGuire to the staff-she replaces Miss Peacock-who has joined us from St. Annes. She has been with the Homes for a number of years and we hope she enjoys her stay at the Verney. R. N. |
Left to right: Roy Dean, Roy "Doggy" Prato, Goode,
David Smith
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"THE
VERNEY", WATERFORD
NEWS Landlord:
Mr. and Mrs. Corbett The person who contributes his share of copy to a magazine, regularly, has an unenviable position. As he sits down, he takes out his pen, finds his sheet of paper and prepares to write. We say "prepares"; but then, there's the snag. As he stares rather vaguely at his blank sheet, he begins to wonder what he is going to write. However, at last he gets down to it, and finally, having written his modest piece, and feeling sure he's been a fool to be cajoled into the role of an unpaid journalist, he seeks refuge in the thought that perhaps, after all, his remarks might have been worse. This being the first piece of copy we have written for a magazine, we find our task comparatively light. Copy seems ready made, in so far as this edition of THE GOLDONIAN marks the opening of a new era. First, let us start with the short "history" of "The Verney" from the time we entered its homely atmosphere until the present. When first opened, there was still quite an amount of work to be done before it was habitable by a number of boys. This' 'before hand" work was done mostly by Mr. and Mrs. Corbett and two of the House Captains at that time, Fred May and Reg Howitt. Both these boys have now left and are in situations. Fred May lives quite near, in Ware, and Reg Howitt lives at Edmonton, a little further away. However, we still have visits from these two and are always happy to see them. Since these two lads came to ''The Verney", two further parties of boys, mainly printers' apprentices, have taken up residence here. The first party came in May 1950, and the second some six weeks later. Two of. these boys have since left and one is in the army in Trieste, and the other has ,joined the RA.F. It is now known that a third party of boys will be joining us as soon as certain circumstances will permit. During the summer months everyone here enjoys a game of tennis on the tennis-lawn behind the house. Enthusiasm is at its peak for this game, as is proved by the number of balls that somehow fall into the river at the bottom of the garden after some well meant but rather wild "smashes". The gardens are somewhat in a tangle here, and although we made a start in trying to get them "shipshape", the nights closed in on us and now we must wait for the summer months again. We hope everyone will help to make the gardens look better than they appear at present by doing their share of the work. Getting to the present time, we find our Table-Tennis team at the top of the Hertford Table-Tennis League (Division two). Out of the six matches played, the team has won all six with seventeen points out of a possible eighteen. We have great hopes that they will be the eventual winners of this Division. Keep it up, Messrs Watson, Bousfield and Watts! It is not possible at present to have our own football team, owing to lack of the full number of players, but we hope to rectify this as soon as possible. It was with regret that we learned the Television set could not be repaired; however, there may still be hope yet, as our own two "expert" radio mechanics are on the job and are very optimistic. At present we lack a chef on the staff here, but are managing quite commendably. We all have turns at being roused from our deep slumbers and comfortable beds to give a hand with the breakfast. Being first up in the morning is proving quite an experience for one or two of our members, but we're happy to say, we haven't had to pour a bucket of, water over anyone yet! Now, to end our notes, we would like in good old seasonable style, to wish everyone, past, present, and future, the merriest of Christmases, and a very happy and prosperous New Year. M. J. H. and A. B. J. |
From the Goldonian photo archive I found these, Gordon Anstey. (Left) He went in the Army for his National Service and never returned to finish his apprenticeship. The young man in a RAF uniform is unknown but had returned to see his mates. Can anybody put a name to the face? You can just see The Vets House over his right shoulder where Mr & Mrs. Silcock lived and his son & daughter Patsy waving from the bedroom window (in your dreams).
David Smith wrote: I see you've included the photo of the Verney common room that I call " The Verney Ghost". I wonder what people will make of it. The subjects in the photo from L to R are Philip Arends, Roy Dean, Yours Truly and Duncan (I can't remember his first name). It was a time exposure photo and Mrs. Bates walked into the room halfway through. Duncan looked round to see who had come in, hence his blurred image and Mrs. Bates only got half exposure resulting in the ghostly image. I used to tell people that there was no one there when I took the photo and it was only revealed when it was developed.
David Smith Arrived at Goldings in September 1947 and left to do his National Service on November 1st. 1951, returning to finish his printing apprenticeship in October 1953 to September 12th. 1955. David now lives in Tonbridge, Kent. Click here to view David's memories of Honingham Hall. For those of you who are asking who is David Smith, he was the one that burnt his stash of dirty pictures after a Goldings boy had found them. I will let David tell you that story, he wrote: About the naughty pictures. I had two stints at the Verney, the first from January - October 1951 with Rev. Mrs. Corbett and the second from November 1953 - August 1954 with Mr. and Mrs. Embleton along with their daughters Joan and one other, what was her name? An embarrassing event happened during my second stay at the Verney. I had brought some rather rude photos back from my National Service days in Benghazi, although by today's standards they were pretty tame. I kept them in a drawer in my shared room buried under my socks and underwear, but they were not hidden well enough, because they were discovered by a lad with sticky fingers who used to come from the School to do the cleaning as his Domestic duty. One day someone showed me a photo which was obviously from my "collection". I was horrified that they were doing the rounds and I frantically rushed around trying to get them back. Luckily the "tea leaf" still had the majority of them still in his possession and after issuing threats of terrible revenge, I finally managed to retrieve them all. Fearing that others may have heard about them, I consigned them to the flames of the Verney boiler. I dread to think what would have been the consequences had they fallen into the hands of Pinhead or any other member of Staff.
Today David lives in Tonbridge, Kent. |
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Who
remembers Mrs. E. G. Bates and Master Bates (photo left) who arrived in 1950. I
think Steven and his mother are with Doc Watson? Who was not a doctor, confused
I was.
I had a message from David who now says that
can't be him in the photo as he took the picture so he feels it must be
Roy "Doggy" Prato is third from the left.
Best Wishes.