It is with great sadness that we share the passing of John Graham Pike, OH 1940-47, who died aged 92 on 24 December 2022. We had the pleasure of hearing from his wife, Lenore, who has kindly provided a few words and shared some of John's memories of his time at school.

He spoke fondly of the school and we both attended the 50th anniversary of his class, which I enjoyed. I recall stories of having to call a lady teacher 'Sir' during the war, an art teacher with purple hair [why not!?] and also a maths teacher who would bat the boys on their heads as he walked round the class, not permissible these days but perhaps a less brutal way could be found?!

He mentioned that during the war, he would cycle through the damage caused by the bombs during the night and of saying many a prayer that the 'all clear' would not sound till after 'bell time'?

John was 92 years, born 7th August 1930 and qualified as an architect at the art college in Hull, with his last job being the new stand at Wembley, in 1990-91. He played the piano from a child and went on to get his grade 8, he played in various groups and orchestras. John also took up the clarinet in his 40's, although would drive to the Moors to practice, that way he could only frighten the sheep! He achieved his grade 5 in 1975.

To recap to his RAF years, he entered as a Pilot Officer and told the story that he could take off and loop the loop but couldn't land them. He was sent off for an eye test and returned half and hour later with glasses but with no improvement. At this point it was pointed out that they had plenty of officers but not that many aircraft so hence his move to a ground job!

Music and gardening were his two hobbies which he loved! Thank you on his behalf and I so wish I had been so lucky to have such an education.

Mrs Lenore Pike

Our deepest sympathies are sent to Lenore and also our thanks for sharing these memories, which we are sure will resonate with a generation of alumni.