1646 – Issue 4

2 4 NEWS OF OLD BLUES Thank you to all those who updated us on their news this year. If you would like to let us know about any specific achievements or births, deaths and marriages, then please contact Louise in the Foundation Office at lms@rbcs.org.uk . To let other Old Blues know about more general updates, please head to Reading Blue Coat Connect ( readingbluecoatconnect.org.uk ) and post an update. NEWS A huge congratulations to Sir Alok Kumar Sharma KCMG (1985) who was recognised inHisMajesty The King’s New Year Honours list. Alok has been knighted for his contribution in the fight against climate change, through his leadership at COP26 having served as President from 2021-2022. DuncanWalker (1969) has shared a photo of an Old Blues get together with their wives and partners. Reading clockwise from the top are Old Blues David Johnson (1969), Tony Cooper (1967), Stuart Marsh (1967), Jamie Harcourt (1968), Philip Gillibrand (1970), DonaldWallace (1967), DuncanWalker (1969). The School said a fond farewell to Peter Bertram (1973) as Chair of Governors and in his honour, the newly named “Bertram Business and Economics Centre” opened to students in September. Peter served as Chairman since December 2013 and we are grateful for his time, commitment and dedications to the School over the years. Tim Darvell (1984) has in recent years been actively fundraising for cancer charities including Bowel Cancer UK. His latest venture, released last September, was an 11-track album called A New Dawn. It follows in the long line of music efforts since RBCS. Chemical Brothers, TomRowlands (1989) and Ed Simons put on an amazing show on the main stage at this summers Isle of Wight Festival, described as a “sensory overload” from start to finish. Michael McClure (2001) was appointed as a Kings Counsel (KC) at a Declaration Ceremony in Westminster Hall, London on 27 March. He is employed by Herbert Smith Freehills, a leading global law firm where he works as a partner representing clients primarily with international arbitration in the energy, construction, infrastructure and financial services sectors. Cameron Mizen (2011) joined the creative team at Huawei after leaving Blue Coat but after Covid hit he decided to set up his own business renting out very large luxurious tipis. His company, Raw Tipis, has expanded significantly in the 3 years since he set it up with help from his father, Geoff, also an Old Blue (1983). Catering for weddings, festivals and corporate events they pride themselves on being the only sustainable tipi company in the UK and were this year’s sole providers of tipis at Henley Festival rawtipis.co.uk . TomRosenthal’s (2006) first book “Around the World in 80 Favours”’ is available to pre- order and is due for release early next year. The book explores the possibility of getting around the world without paying for travel... good luck Tom!!