CASTERTON 200 CELEBRATIONS
On the weekend of 24th and 25th of June, Casterton Sedbergh Prep opened its doors in celebration of the founding of Casterton School by the Revd William Carus-Wilson in 1823.
Over the course of the weekend, over 400 Old Girls, parents, and friends were in attendance at the lunches, the Gala Dinner, and the Church Service held in the Holy Trinity Church.
The Gala Dinner, held in a marquee, was a sell out success with 250 people enjoying a glorious summer evening while being entertained by the prep school musicians before dinner. Thereafter we heard speeches from the Headmaster, Will Newman, and Castertonian Old Girl, Holly Story.
During the evening we were entertained through song by Olivia Patchett, a former pupil at the prep school and now a music scholar at Sedbergh. Olivia received a standing ovation after her faultless performance.
After the formal part of the evening concluded, the live band ‘The Dead Beats’ soon filled the dance floor. It was a tremendous evening all round and many kind comments have since been received.
In the morning, with some bleary eyed, the traditional Casterton Founder’s Day ceremony was re-enacted with the carrying of the banner ahead of the assembled crowd of 200, who together paraded from the School to The Holy Trinity Church. It was a spectacular occasion not seen for ten years.
The Church service itself was conceived by the Sedbergh School Chaplain, Paul Sweeting, and led by Casterton Old Girl, The Revd Olivia Haines, supported by another Casterton Old Girl, The Revd Sarah Simpson.
During the service the Casterton school song was sung with such vigour, and with such passion, that it echoed around the walls of the Church and down the Lune valley. Tears welled in the eyes as fond memories came flooding back.
It was a wonderful weekend. Thank you to all those who made it happen, and in particular to Will and Liz Newman who were so hospitable and accommodating.
It should come as no surprise that following the weekend 150 Old Girls have signed up to attend more events and we hope this will be the platform for many happy reunions in years to come. If you would like to know more about future Casterton events, please see the link here: https://forms.office.com/e/ajvTVCe83Uhttps://forms.office.com/e/ajvTVCe83U
