Many of you will have seen from our communication last November that CIM Jones sadly passed away on 24th November aged 82. Ian was Head Master at the School from 1975 to 1986 and made a huge impact in a number of areas, but will probably be best remembered for his great resolve and the manner in which he got the School back on its feet after the devastating fire of March 1979.

On Saturday 21st January 2017, Ian’s family welcomed everybody to St. Stephen’s Church in Norwich where several members of the Bedford School community took part in the service, which was conducted by The Revd. Ian Browne (staff 83-97). It was lovely to see so many former members of staff and OBs at the service which was a touching and fitting tribute to Ian and everything he achieved during his life as teacher, Head Master, family man, hockey player and lover of cricket, to name but a few of his passions and accomplishments. Former Director of Music, Andrew Morris (staff 79-11), coordinated the music which was carefully selected for the service. Particularly poignant was current Senior Monitor, Harry Guthrie’s rendition of the 1948 London Olympic Games Hymn which would have inspired a 14-year-old Ian to achieve greatness in the world of sport. This clearly had the desired effect as Ian went on to play hockey at a national level, representing team GB at both the 1960 and 1964 Olympic games! 

Tributes were given by:

Andy Pebbles –  former pupil at Bishop Stortford College
Bernie Cotton – former teacher at Bishop Stortford College and Bedford School staff 77-87)
David Jarrett (staff 76-97) – former teacher at Bedford School and former Headmaster of Reed’s School

The family have kindly asked that all donations in memory of “CIM” go to the Bedford School Foundation. It is anticipated that these funds will then go towards resurfacing an astro pitch. As you will be aware Ian was passionate about hockey, having played for both England and Great Britain, and as a School Master was determined that boys should get out and train and play in all weather conditions! 

For those of you who were unable to make it to Norwich, the order of service and addresses are available to view below.

 
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