Good to hear
from Alan today (8.6.03). I hope some new photos might follow. Here's his
description of his life since school...
"Chris Barclay's long curriculum vitae has inspired me to write a (much
shorter) synopsis of what I have been up to for the last 35 or so years.
After leaving school I spent a number of years doing a variety of jobs, including
blacksmith, hotel worker, navvy, glass engraver and as a sailor on yachts
and in the Merchant Marine. I then, in about 1974, went into business with
my then brother-in-law, running a business that rejoiced in the rather long-winded
name of 'Self-sufficiency and Smallholding Supplies', selling all sorts
of small-scale and amateur farming equipment. (Remember, this was the height
of the 'goodlife/back-to-the-land' period.) Running that was great fun for
about ten years and we really became internationally quite well known within
that interest group. We had customers trekking to our door from as far away
as St Helena and Tristendacuna. The business was a partnership, which is a
bit like a marriage and, like many marriages, they don't last forever and
frequently end in acrimony! The business still exists, after several changes
of hands, as mail order only - based near Shepton Mallet.
Luckily my real marriage (1978) to my lovely wife, Joy (formerly 'Liffy'),
is still going strong.
After leaving the business I worked briefly as a cave guide in Wookey Hole
caves as a stop-gap, then did a 'TOPS' course in computer systems
analysis. That enabled me to get a job with Clarks Shoes, who are
based in Street (Somerset), only seven miles from my home. I have worked
there ever since and am now a Senior System Analyst. We have two children,
Ambrose (21) and Corrina (18), both of whom have gone to Bedales
for their sixth form. Ambrose is now studying Computer Science at Exeter University
(not bad for a boy who, like his father, is very dyslexic!). Corrina is just
in the midst of taking A-levels at Bedales.
That's the end of the history. Keep up the good work!
Lots of Love, Alan"
'Fairmead'
Panborough
Wells
Somerset
BA5 1PN
