Saturday 18 May 2024
Leavers of 1984 Reunion
The class of 1984 were joined by some of the class of 1986 on a special joint occasion that was 40-year reunion and also celebrated the life of Raj Prabhakaran, who sadly died in February. The lawn of Deanery was bathed in sunshine as we chatted together and enjoyed the company of people with whom we had years of shared history and remembered those of us who we have lost too soon. Rupert Carr of the legendary parties made an appearance, from France, and we had the pleasure of recalling the snogs, the dancing and the homemade wine. We were able to thank Rupert for providing the class of 1984 with the location for dozens of seminal experiences. David Owens and Lloyd Hession made the trip from the USA for the get together; Roy Prabhakaran joined us, with his charming daughter Uma, from Brunei. Anna Swindells travelled to the event from far flung New Zealand and Michael Boyle flew in from Austria. If you have not attended one of your class reunions, I cannot recommend it strongly enough. All those things that were annoying or frightening at school have mellowed and faded and what is left is a joint recollection of growing up. I took the opportunity to apologise to a few people for behaviours that, upon reflection and with maturity, I am not so proud of. The sense of community and solidarity after 40 years of life is hugely comforting. Lara Latcham