We were determined to try and find a date when we could host the Roxburgh Society Lunch amongst all the Covid restrictions and we were lucky that we picked Sunday 10 October – a date that was unaffected by rise and fall of the virus. Having had an enforced year off (the first in the history of the Roxburgh Society) it was a delight to welcome back the Society’s members to Stowe.
The Roxburgh Society is a community of Old Stoics and friends of the School who have chosen to include Stowe in their Will. Over the last 20 years charitable giving to Stowe by Old Stoics and those who hold Stowe close to their hearts, has supported both the restoration of the House and the renaissance of the fabric of the School. Looking to the future, many Roxburgh Society members have left gifts in their Will to support bursaries – giving talented and deserving children the opportunity of a life-changing education at Stowe.
For this year’s lunch, Stowe delivered a superb autumnal day – warm enough for pre-lunch drinks on the South Front Portico – and a stunning view over the South Front as the colours started to turn golden. The food, as ever, was excellent and a very convivial and enjoyable lunch was enjoyed by all.
We were treated to wonderful recitals by Stoics Abigail Roberts (Upper Sixth, West) and Jessica Foxwell (Upper Sixth, Lyttelton) – both fantastic musicians excelling at Stowe. However, an impromptu performance by Yulia Chaplina, who accompanied John ‘Fingers’ Fingleton (Chatham 66), was hugely appreciated and a wonderful treat for everyone attending. Yulia is a renowned concert pianist and winner of seven international piano competitions. She played a brief but uplifting piece from Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’ and her performance was beautiful and fitting in the magnificent Music Room. Our thanks to Yulia, who was gracious enough to play for us!
Membership to the Roxburgh Society is open to anyone who pledges to leave a bequest. Please do give the idea of joining the Roxburgh Society your consideration. It is one of the most powerful ways that alumni can ensure the future prosperity of our Alma Mater. The Society has had 221 members, with 147 members currently, and nearly £3million has been left to Stowe through bequests of all sizes. It really has made a huge difference to the School. If you would like further information or to discuss your wishes in confidence, please contact the Deputy Development Director, Charlie Clare at Stowe (cclare@stowe.co.uk) on 01280 818326. I, too, am very happy to provide guidance if required, nigelkrice@gmail.com or 07971 501750.
Nigel Rice (Chatham 64), President, Roxburgh Society