Over 100 people attended the OGA Reunion on 9^th October 2021 which celebrated 90 years since the foundation of Godalming Grammar School. It was postponed from last year because of the Covid pandemic and the OGs met instead through Zoom reunion. The Old Godhelmians who attended were met at the door by committee members Susan Hindle and Eleanor Andrews, and guided into the main hall by Caroline Brooks and Mary Pugh. During the course of the morning the Chairperson, Shirley Coleman, welcomed everyone to the event and spoke briefly about the OGA in its most recent configuration. A Collectors’ Corner was set up in the main hall and a wonderful display of photos, magazines, school uniform and other memorabilia was created.  Some of these items belong to the OGA archive which is organised by Marta Riddle and Jane Jopson with help and advice from Hazel Freeston and Judy Stoker. Others were supplied by the College library or were brought in on the day by ex-pupils.  OGs were encouraged by Annette Ettorre to fill in a short form about their memories of their time at GGS, which will form part of the proposed book on the school. In the afternoon, stamp and currency expert David Muscott displayed images of Godalming and Guildford banknotes and gave a short speech on provincial banknotes. A delicious three-course lunch was supplied by the College caterer, Phil Hennequin, and served by his friendly team. They also provided tea, coffee and cakes throughout the day. The Estates Manager at Godalming College, John Erasmus, took some of the OGs on a very interesting tour of the main building and grounds. Steve Teague set up the equipment for a two-hour Zoom room in one of the classrooms. OGs from as far afield as Tasmania and Massachusetts, as well as throughout the United Kingdom, joined with classmates in Godalming to share memories of their schooldays. Rod Weale’s book, To the End, To the End, They Remain (Vol II), about the men whose names appear on the Second World War memorial, was on display. The 70-page book includes personal details of each former pupil and the circumstances of their death. Rod has included photographs of their grave or memorial and has researched their families and other local connections. There are a great many illustrations, both of the man honoured and, where appropriate, the aircraft, where he flew, the theatre he fought in etc. If you would like to receive a copy of this book (£14.99 includes p&p), please contact Rod at [email protected] In the late afternoon a smaller group met at The Inn on the Lake for drinks and refreshments, some staying until the evening. This venue was organised by David Hayes. The next full reunion is planned for October 2023. The committee has received some lovely messages of thanks from many of those who attended.  These are just a few examples: David Hutchins (1945 – 51) I have to say what a brilliant day Saturday was. Everything seemed to be well organised and the wealth of pictorial records there was a real joy as I was able to see pictures of my elder sister in all her sports teams. Very well done to you and all who were involved in the organising and all those who gave or lent material for the day. Joan Longhurst (1946 – 50) This is a very belated note to say how much I and my particular group enjoyed Saturday.   It was great being back at school and it brought back many happy memories.   We spent a long time reminiscing but also met up with other past pupils that we hadn’t seen for years and there was a real buzz everywhere.   Thank you to the committee for a very well-organised event.   It was obvious that a lot of hard work had gone into getting us all together and I’m sure it was appreciated by us all. Neville Crabbe (1965 – 72) I joined via Zoom from Massachusetts, and had a very pleasant and interesting chat with a variety of OGs. I really enjoy these get-togethers however I am able to join in. Thanks to the committee for all the hard work involved. Very much appreciated! Liz Woolford (1968 – 72) Absolutely lovely to see you all yesterday. Congratulations to the team on bringing it all together.  Sha Barnes (1971 – 77) I just wanted to thank the team for organising today's school reunion. It was very nice to meet up with old friends, some of whom I hadn't seen since leaving school. It was amazing to see all the old photos etc. too.

Photo by Pete Gardner