With sincere condolences, we acknowledge the deaths of the following Old Tridents and staff, during the past 12 months. Details of alumni whose passing we have been informed of appears below and includes an obituary tribute where this has been provided. Families are welcome to share the news of the loss of their loved ones, and our deepest sympathy is with them. Please contact us if you would like to share an online obituary.
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Joseph Anthony Wood: Wortley, 1953 – 1957
Passed away 28 November 2022, aged 83
Tribute to Tony Wood, provided by his son Joe Wood (Old Trident, Wortley 1992-1997)
Everyone has said that my dad was a perfect gentleman, that he helped them and their families and their businesses and that he was truly compassionate. He lived to give.
Tony, right, with brother Thomas also an OT. Joseph Anthony Wood, Tony to all who knew him, was born on 20th May 1939, to Blanche (nee Holmes) and Ernest Wood of Birstwith. Tony’s brother Thomas had been born 18 months previously.
Ernest ran the family flour mill, F.T. Wood & Sons and the family lived next to the mill, in a house called Ashleigh. The war started only three months after Tony was born and Ernest was very quickly called up to serve. From 1940 to 1945 Ernest was abroad. In fact, he only returned at the end of the war. These difficult years influenced Thomas and Tony for the rest of their lives. The boys had free run of the mill and the bakery, encouraged by their Grandpa. Thankfully, Ernest returned safely from war and one year later Ruth was born and four years later Jennifer.
Family holidays were to Bridlington and in later years to Filey, which was to become a favourite spot of Tony’s.
Tony with brother Thomas, left. Thomas and Tony were sent to boarding school in 1946, firstly to Saint Olaves in Ripon and then to Trent College in Long Eaton.
They became driven by their mother’s burning desire for the success of her sons. Tony was someone who would hide his light under a bushel. He did this in business and in his family life. He would keep quiet about his accomplishments. So, it often comes as a surprise when anyone learns that when Tony was still at school (Trent College), he became a talented magician and fire eater! He joined the Magic Circle when he was 17, at the same time as a young man from Middlesborough called Paul Daniels! With help from Uncle Thomas (OT, Wortley 1951-1953), Tony and his friend Geoffrey Atkinson (OT, Wortley 1951-1955) put together a fire eating act which they performed at the then Grand Hotel in Harrogate, as well as all over the country, including at Magic Circle conventions in Eastborne and Southport.
Tony with OT Geoffrey Atkinson, Wortley 51-55. The act involved, at one point, Tony lighting a cigarette from a flaming arrow as it flew past him mid-air from a bow which Geoffrey Atkinson had just fired towards the wings of the stage where Thomas was standing-by to catch the arrow, out of sight of the audience, into an enormous mass of sacking covered in alum, to put the flames out. The next big magic trick took place when he was 19, which was an escapologist trick performed at the opening of the Knaresborough Annual Festival. Tony escaped from a big packing case which had been put on display in the marketplace in Knaresborough for the public to scrutinise, during the week or so leading up to the event. Tony was tied into a mail bag and then 4 locked into the packing case which was then lowered by a crane into the River Nidd. Given the freezing temperatures of the water and the depth, he had only a few moments to escape in front of the big crowds who gasped when he didn’t appear and then after some disturbance he came up.
Tony’s days doing magic and eating fire must have taught him a lot about stagecraft and how to deal with a crisis or two. He certainly needed those skills once he got started in the bakery trade.
The magic act and fire eating came to an end when Tony was called for National Service. Tony joined the Navy and put his National Service time to good use by training to become a mechanical engineer. This was to later help him enormously in the bakery business when all things productive became mechanical.
First term at Trent. Tony Wood, bottom right. F.T. Wood and Sons had been going from strength to strength. After National Service, a training for Tony had been organised at accountants in Leeds to equip him for working at the flour mill. Thomas and Tony were going to be trusted to lead it into the future. The future was full of anticipation. But then disaster struck; on Christmas Eve 1962 Ernest (Tony’s father) took ill and he passed away on Christmas Day. In those days there was a harsh regime of Death Duties to be paid to the government. This meant that Ernest’s sudden untimely death led to the business and indeed the family home being sold to pay those duties. The family flour mill unfortunately fell into the hands of a corporate business called Staveley Industries, who, only six months later sold it on again to Spillers. These events, leading to the family business falling outside of family ownership, had a profound impact on Tony. Something which he spoke about from time to time in the future and which lead to him committing that whatever he did in business in the future, it would be a family business, for generations to come.
Tony had no hesitation in starting in business again, from scratch, on his own. That decision is what took him and Christine into baking and the founding of what has become the family business today, Country Style. They set about this with commitment and hard work, even before they were married. Tony married Christine on Tony’s 25th birthday in 1964. By which time, Tony’s “rank or profession” was rightly recorded on their marriage certificate as “Baker” and Christine’s “rank or profession” was recorded on the marriage certificate as “Confectionary Sales Lady.” This was an early indication of what was to become a unique, remarkable, lengthy, and extremely successful partnership in both marriage and in business.
Tony and Christine were married for 58 years. Their commitment to each other has been outstanding, as has their commitment to the bakery, where they worked night and day. Initially the baking was done in the extremely early hours by Tony and Christine and the selling of the products was done by way of van rounds, which they also drove themselves, through the growing housing estates.
In those days, housewives purchased their loaves of bread from a fleet of bread vans which did the rounds. In the late 1970s, our country was in a situation of widespread strikes and industrial disputes. One such strike was the Bread Strike of 1977. Whilst all of the big plant bakers were ground to a halt by reason of industrial dispute and a shortage of bread emerged, independent bakers, family bakers, were baking and selling every loaf they possibly could. The ovens were kept hot and full around the clock and this was a lucrative time. This paid for investment by Tony and Christine into freezing equipment and what started as a pioneering experiment into the sale of deep-frozen bread and bakery products.
They discovered that it would stay fresh for months and after a short second bake, it would be crusty and fresh out of the oven as if freshly made from scratch. To begin with they used the deep freeze to make stock in advance for peak sales at weekends, bank holidays and when there were big events. They soon realised that they could supply bread to new outlets which could not make their own bread from scratch but still wanted to sell freshly baked products. After study trips to the United States, including Atlantic City, Tony returned with an understanding of doughnuts, their production methods, the equipment that was needed and the market for them. It was on study trips such as these that he first contacted like-minded bakery entrepreneurs such as Paul Fletcher, Trevor Storer and Malcolm Skelton and these trips fuelled his ambition. The rise of the supermarkets brought about big changes. Tony and Christine’s work partnership was key to the transformation from a retail bakery to a successful wholesale business. Tony was no longer the actual baker, he was running a large bakery business and although Christine might still have been called a Confectionary Sales Lady, she was now calling on supermarkets and big national accounts.
Although work was a big feature in Tony’s life and he worked very hard, he overwhelmingly loved his wife and children. He ensured that there were joyful holidays in what became a long series of Volkswagen caravanettes (which also doubled as bread delivery vans during the week) and eventually a much-visited bungalow in Filey.
Tony continued his love of engaging with the bakery trade at exhibitions and trade shows once family had arrived. The whole family attended trade shows & exhibitions all over the UK & Europe, overnighting in the Volkswagen caravanette, parked up outside many an exhibition centre or conference hall.
The principle of never paying a dividend and always ploughing profits back into the business led to rapid expansion. The business took on contracts with British Rail InterCity to serve Danish Pastries onboard and it was soon proved that the business was capable of taking on large contracts. The experiments in the early days of freezing bread after the bread strikes lead to the development of “bake off” in store bakeries, which became a large part of the business. The business took on the accreditations it now needed. New financial systems and engineering resources were put in place.
Over the years there were many individuals who through loyalty, respect and friendship with Tony contributed to the establishment and development of the business. His popularity greatly contradicted his lifestyle. People wanted to do a good job for him, enjoyed working with him and wanted to see the business grow.
Tony liked to try things and he really liked a trier in other people. He favoured the underdog and liked to approach things from unconventional angles. Anyone who has directly worked with him will tell you of his incredible ability to ask highly challenging questions which suddenly make one view situations or circumstances in a totally different light. It was based upon incredible instincts which were mostly always right. But he was never the sort of person to say I told you so.
Tony always attended National Association of Master Bakers events and the friendships and bakery trade comradery of that organisation brought him great pleasure. It was kind of the organisation to bestow Lifetime Membership on him and Christine in 2018.
Tony was an extremely humble and down to earth man, who did not seek the limelight or public attention. For a man who shied away from the spotlight, he leaves behind a legion of fans. He was a private man who harboured many thoughts in his mind but only shared them with a select few.
Tony had enormous vision and foresight. He laid down things for the future and looked ahead.
In August [2023], Tony visited the bakery to see a large new production line which had just started making products after almost two years of planning, building, installing, and commissioning. To avoid the stairs, minimise steps and make the visit manageable for Tony, Joe organised to drive to the side of the building and go in through a fire exit which opened immediately into the bakery. As usual, Tony decided last minute that he wanted to set off much earlier than planned and arrived, as usual, a bit before anyone was expecting him to turn up. Tony and Joe slipped into the bakery and wandered up and down past the new equipment and settled in a spot where Tony watched hundreds of lovely products whisking past like soldiers and colleagues finishing them off with skill and care. It was the largest scale that had ever done. Tony and Joe stood there together and watched. There were tears rolling down Tony’s cheeks, as he said, “I never imagined that this was how it would be.”
Whilst no one knew it would be, at the time, that was Tony’s last visit to the bakery.
Tony passed away peacefully at home at Birstwith, Harrogate with his family around him, on 28 November 2022 aged 83 years.
Tony leaves behind and is sorely missed by his wife Christine, sons John, Patrick and Joe and granddaughter Gretel.
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William John Belfitt: Hanbury, 1948-1951
Passed away 24 March 2023, aged 89
William John Belfitt, known fondly by family and friends as Bill, was born in July 1933 in Birchwood, near Alfreton, Derbyshire. Sadly, he passed away just a few months shy of his 90th birthday.
His wife of 63 years, Janet, sadly died only two weeks later.
Bill’s father was a senior coal board official and as a result the family moved around a lot during Bill’s formative years.
He joined Trent College, in Hanbury Boarding House, in 1948 and when he left in 1951, he went on to attend the University of Nottingham, obtaining a degree in mining.
After a long career with the National Coal Board, Bill became a lecturer and independent consultant in safety.
A House Prefect, Bill was also a keen rugby player whilst at Trent and was awarded his 1st XV cap in 1950. In later life often returned to Trent to watch matches; he was a loyal supporter of the school.
Bill was a Freemason for over 50 years and was a founder member of the Fons Vitae Lodge, associated with Trent College.
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Fredrick Richard Fox: Wortley, 1959-1963
Passed away 16 August 2023, aged 77
Richard, or Rick as he was fondly known to family and friends, attended Bramcote Preparatory School from 1957 and arrived at Trent College, into Wortley Boarding House, in 1959. A keen sportsman, he represented Trent College in the Rugby and Hockey teams. When he left Trent in 1963, Rick went on to serve an apprenticeship with Henry Venables in Staffordshire, learning the timber trade – a trade he remained in for the next 30 years of his life.
He always continued his love of sport and went on to play for Belper 1st XI and helped establish the junior hockey system – a system that helped produce many future hockey stars.
Rick had two sons Nicholas Jonathan and Robert Richard and having lived in Duffield for over 20 years he moved to Ripley where he spent the last 20 years of his life.
Rick will be dearly missed by family and friends but always remembered.
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Colin P Birrell: Shuker, 1971-1974
Passed away 7 March 2022, aged 64
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Peter Clement: Wright/Blake, 1976-1983
Passed away May 2022, aged 57
Many will remember Peter as a Gown Prefect who left Trent College to study law. Peter went on to become a Captain in the Army Legal Service and served in Northern Ireland. He had an illustrious career at the Criminal Bar and became Head of Chambers at 2 Harcourt Buildings where he practised for over 30 years.
Peter had recently retired and was on holiday, in the Seychelles, to celebrate. Peter went missing whilst out on a hiking expedition along the Grande Barbe trail, and is believed to have run into difficulties when bad weather set in. Sadly, he did not return and was assumed dead. A Service of Thanksgiving, organised by his former Chambers and attended by old school friends, was held on 31 January 2023 at Temple Church, London.
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John Patrick Driver: Hanbury, 1953-1956
Passed away April 2022, aged 82
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John Darrell Fowler: Hanbury, 1949-1952
Passed away 17 September 2022, aged 86
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Thomas Ian Hepburn: Shuker, 1955-1958
Passed away 12 August 2022, aged 81
Ian was a popular member of Shuker House and was leader of the Chapel Choir and often played the Organ. He was a member of the 1st X1 Hockey and Cricket teams, for which he received his colours for the latter. Ian also played rugby and represented the 2nd XV.
On leaving Trent Ian joined National Westminster Bank and became manager across several branches. He was a keen badminton player and Director of The Magdala Choir. For many years he was the Organist and Choir Master at St. Edmund`s Church, Holme Pierrepoint. Nottingham.
Married to Mary and parents of Tim and Chris, Ian also has grandchildren, Ben and Eva.
Ian had enjoyed membership of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club since 1951 and was a committee member for 17 years. He served as President in 2014 and 2015 at Nottinghamshire and was also Vice President of Plumtree CC..
A keen golfer and member of Stanton on the Wolds GC where he regularly partnered fellow Old Trident, Rex Gooding (OT, 1956-1960).
Ian was a loyal and trusted friend to many, with a remarkable memory for sporting events and occasions. Although he endured several years of ill health, he continued to follow the progress of Nottingham Forest Football Club and was heartened by their promotion to the Premiership.
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David I Jackson: Wright, 1973-1980
Passed away 11 September 2022, aged 61
David passed away at The Prince of Wales Hospice in Pontefract. He was predeceased by his father Tony (February 2000) and will be lovingly remembered by and his mother Eunice and sister Susan and her family.
David attended Trent College in the 1970’s before going onto Bradford University and then becoming an electrical engineer in the nuclear power industry.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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Craig Keegan: Trent College Hockey Coach/Head of Hockey, 2000-2008
Passed away on 15 February 2023, aged 54.
Former coach and Head of Hockey at Trent College, Craig was also assistant coach to the Olympic Gold Medal winning GB women’s squad at Rio 2016 and worked for over 10 years in various other coaching roles for England and Great Britain. He had many club and school connections and was most recently Director of Sport at the University of Derby and was Head Coach at Belper Hockey Club.
He passed away following a short battle with acute lymphoblastic lymphoma. A great friend, coach and mentor to many, not least the coaches and staff at Trent, he will be sorely missed. He leaves his wife Sally, stepson Harry and daughter Olivia.
Our condolences and deepest sympathy go to Craig’s family and friends. -
Brian Keen: Hanbury, 1946-1951
Passed away 28 March 2022, aged 88
Brian followed in his father, Berstrand’s, footsteps in attending Trent College and was soon followed by his two younger brothers Christopher and Michael. Brian spoke often and fondly about his time at Trent how he enjoyed playing rugby, being in the school swim team and, subsequently, representing the school with the OT Golf Society and playing in the renowned Halford Hewitt Cup.
Following his time in National Service Brian became involved with the family woodworking firm, where he remained for many years, before going on to run his own successful upholstery business.
Brian retired to Selsey West, where he continued to enjoy golf and took up playing bowls.
He passed away peacefully following a short illness, with his family around him. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
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Forbes Robertson Mutch: Wright, 1940-1944 (Bramcote Prep 1935-1940)
Passed away 17 January 2022, aged 94
Forbes retained strong links with Trent College and many members of the Trent College and Bramcote Prep community will remember him with fond memory. It was a privilege to welcome him to the school’s Centenary Remembrance Service held at Trent College on 11 November 2014 and the following year, he reunited with friends at the Old Bramcotian Reunion event.
Beloved husband of Pat, and loved by all his family and friends, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
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David A Peck: Shuker, 1952-1955
Passed away 5 March 2022, aged 83
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Charles W Roberts: Wright, 1950-1956
Passed away 11 July 2022, aged 85
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David Baxter Shaw: Wortley, 1950-1953
Passed away 9 December 2022, aged 86
David lived a full and happy life. With his wife Margaret of 58 years, he loved to travel and did so extensively, especially enjoying their tours through France, Switzerland, and Italy. David was a proud family man. He and Margaret have three daughters, Katharine, Lizzie and Vickie and four grandchildren, William, Alice, Imogen and Florence. David would often talk to his daughters about his school days, his memories happy ones.
Once he left Trent College, David commenced a career in accountancy, serving his articles at Jarvis Barber & Sons. After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, he served in the British Army for National Service and was commissioned into the Royal Artillery.
David was very proud to be a Chartered Accountant and throughout his career he was generous with his time, mentoring and encouraging young people who joined the profession. David built up a successful practice in Sheffield, which bears his name and continues to flourish. He was President of Sheffield and District Society of Chartered Accountants, Master of the Worshipful Company of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and National Treasurer of the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
David was a philanthropist and community minded, helping others less fortunate than himself throughout his adult life; he supported the YMCA, Hollis’s Hospital and Victim Support. Influenced by his parents who were actively involved with their church when David was a boy, David served as lay treasurer of Sheffield Cathedral for more than a decade.
A highlight of David’s career, as a proud Yorkshireman and proud of his Sheffield heritage, was to have the honour of serving as High Sheriff of South Yorkshire during the Millennium.
After his retirement David thrived on the companionship found in the Sheffield Club and Probus. With Margaret, they were warm and generous hosts, and David was an excellent and witty speaker when the occasion required.
Sadly, David suffered from Parkinson’s disease. His was a life well lived and his family feel blessed to have been there with him on his life’s journey.
He will be missed terribly.
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Jack Skill: Trent College, 2003-2010
Passed away 23 February 2022, aged 30
It was great shock and extremely sad, that Jack died following a tragic accident in his workshop at the family farm, where he was developing his own joinery business. Jack’s family, including his wife of less than a year, have created a memorial garden at the farm, to honour Jack’s memory and his friends are welcome to contribute woodland shrubs.
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Erica Woods: Teacher of Mathematics 1985-2002, Wortley Tutor
Passed away June 2022
Fondly remembered by Old Tridents and colleagues, Erica had suffered a long and courageous battle with cancer. Our condolences are with Erica’s husband Dr Tim Woods, former Head of History and Assistant Housemaster, Wright House (1984-2004), their family and friends.
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Robert Worrall: Shuker, 1964-1969
Passed away 13 September 2022, aged 72
Upon leaving Trent College, Rob studied English at The University of Kent. An Oxford Graduate, he became an English teacher at Epsom College until his retirement in 2010. Whilst at Epsom, he was a Housemaster for 10 years, a House Tutor, Sports Coach and Registrar as well as assisting in the running of the Sixth Form Centre.
In 2019 he visited Trent College and delivered a lecture to English A Level students, almost 50 years to the day that he had taken his own English A Level at Trent. He spoke of fond memories of his time at Trent, remembering the School Shop managed by Mary Loder and his former History teacher and Shuker Housemaster Michael Payne.