De Aston Champions reunite after 50 years

The visit was filled with laughter, storytelling, and reflection. From the pool to the old dorms and even the occasional drainpipe, every corner of the school seemed to unlock a memory. The tour through the older parts of the building reminded the group how powerfully a corridor, bookcase, or anecdote can trigger the past.

Pictured back row from left to right:

Murray Calder

Murray moved to London and worked in the hospitality sector for over 30 years including running restaurants, clubs and a Gite in France. He also became a chauffeur which he continues to do today on a part-time basis. The arts and sport continue to play an important part in his life.

John Reed

John travelled the world as a leading expert in the poultry industry. He held several board positions throughout his career and continues to be a trustee of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. John lives on a smallholding in Herefordshire keeping, breeding and even judging native farm breeds.

Martin Jackson

After a spell in the textile industry, Martin found his niche in the concrete and cement industry. He became a director of the Concrete Society and a regional director of a major aggregates company. Martin also set up a waste management business and became heavily involved in health and safety and the environment. His charitable work for children’s charity Wooden Spoon, spanned 30 years raising substantial funds for disadvantaged children in Wales.

Andrew North

Andrew studied Law and entered private practice after qualifying. A move into local government saw him rise to CEO of Cheltenham Borough Council. Andrew now lives in Northamptonshire where he enjoys English country dancing, bell-ringing and opera.

Front row also left to right:

Geoff Morris

Geoff’s career as an economist changed dramatically during the Ethiopian Famine when he contributed as a volunteer to Live Aid and Fashion Aid. His experience led to senior roles in the charity sector (including Wooden Spoon where he rekindled his friendship with Martin). Geoff also ran both the 800th and 600th anniversaries for Cambridge and St Andrews universities respectively. He was awarded an OBE in 2024 for services to charity and the environment.

Kimm Summerlin

Kimm stayed closer to the school than the others in the group. Kimm became a police officer for almost 40 years and latterly had a public-facing role helping the general public navigate this often difficult to understand environment especially in times of crisis. He now spends time playing the ukulele and raising funds for charity.

Their diverse paths—spanning nightclubs, chickens, concrete, local government, law, and charity—reflect the rich legacy of De Aston and the impact of its dedicated staff.

Headteacher, Simon Porter, said “It was wonderful to welcome these former students back to De Aston and hear how the school played an important part in their life journeys. At De Aston, we value every individual and are committed to helping each and every student succeed and achieve their potential—just as these inspiring alumni have done.”

Friends of De Aston are running a year-long Remembrance Project, celebrating the stories, photos, and memories of former students and staff.

If you’d like to be involved, please contact [email protected] or visit their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram @friendsofdeaston.