This year’s Devonshire Society Day took place on 13 May and the sun shone as members enjoyed champagne in the Headmaster’s garden.  Then it was over to Big School for the unveiling of the Eastbourne College loco plate, restored to its former glory by Bill Castellan (B53).   Ian Dawson (S44) wrote of his recollections of the steam locomotive 'Eastbourne' in Eastbourne College: A Celebration and had wondered what had happened to the nameplate acquired by the College when the train was scrapped in 1961.  The two enthusiasts tracked it down to the Towner Art Gallery in Eastbourne.

Members were interested to view Air Chief Marshal Sir John Baker’s (S11) decorations and medals on show for the first time in a purpose built display case donated by his son and Devonshire Society member Frank Baker (S51).  The Baker family was represented on this occasion by Frank’s brother Giles and his wife Rosalind.  

Bill Castellan and Richard Dowdy (P53) had taken part in the rescue of a Beachy Head lighthouse keeper by quick-thinking Eastbourne cadets in March 1956.  The original letter of thanks had been lost, may be in the Big School fire, but Richard and Bill have obtained a copy and this was framed and on display for members to read. 

A delicious lunch was followed by a varied musical interlude performed by talented College pupils.  A timeless scene of cricket on College field under a cloudless Eastbourne sky completed the enjoyable day.