Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.

News > Memories > Lest we forget

Lest we forget

David Pickup is reminded of annual events to raise money for the British Legion's Poppy Appeal.
11 Nov 2022
Written by David Pickup
Memories

Remembrance Day is upon us again and each year as we approach the ceremonies that take place worldwide I am reminded not only of all those who gave their lives in this and other conflicts, but of the annual competition that took place at Oswestry School to raise money for the British Legion's annual Poppy Appeal.

Duncan Felton (front row, second from left), who arrived at the school in 1920 hot on the heels of Headmaster Ralph Williamson, had been Officer Commanding Hereford Officer Training Corps and he was very passionate about raising money for this very worthy cause.

During the weeks leading up to 11 November, Duncan's booming voice would resonate throughout the long school corridor as he trawled from classroom to classroom pitting one class against another for the honour of raising the most money for the appeal.

This larger-than-life character, with a voice to match, would growl and cajole us to sink our hands into sewn-up pockets, exhorting us to part with money from our meager, supply of weekly pocket money. 

It was a small sacrifice to make in support of this worthiest of causes. 

We Must Always Remember Them.

 

Similar stories

Having said farewell to our Aunt and Uncle in 1952 with 8 years of boarding school life to come, the School Matron led us upstairs to show us our dormitory. More...

When, on a rainy day in 1952 my brother Bernard and I arrived at Oswestry School along with three other 'new bugs', as w… More...

For many years the origin of LAST DAY, painted and repainted by countless numbers of boys on the wall at the entrance to… More...

In 1960, Speech Weekend began on Friday 1 July, almost sixty five years ago today, and I can remember it like it was yes… More...

Returning to School on 8 June after a gloriously sunny half term break at our caravan on the outskirts of Blackpool I be… More...

Most read

In David's penultimate blog post he recalls that despite his school days being sometimes wonderful and sometimes challenging, he will always remember … More...

We are sad to announce the sudden, but peaceful death of Marina de Stacpoole (1996-98) who died on Monday 23 June, aged 45. More...

On Saturday 31 May 2025, Oswestry School warmly welcomed back 78 former pupils and teachers from the years 1985 to 1990 for a memorable reunion filled… More...

Have your say