Rain does nothing to prevent huge turnout at reunion

Despite the horrendous weather on Friday (17 June 2011), more than 600 people attended the Cornwallis Reunion at Cornwallis Academy, Hubbards Lane, in Linton.

Guests travelled from all over Kent and further afield to make the occasion. Due to the heavy rain, food and drinks were served in the school dining hall. The plaza was also adorned with purple balloons and displays of memorabilia for guests to see.

Items included old photographs, prospectuses, school uniform, a commendation book, newspaper clippings and scrapbooks, dating from as far back as 1959 when The Cornwallis School held its official opening ceremony attended by Lord Cornwallis.

Mike Wood, Head Teacher of The Cornwallis School, from September 1985 - Augusts 2005, travelled from Surrey to attend the celebrations.

He said: "It was an enormous pleasure to revisit The Cornwallis on the occasion of the reunion. I was delighted that so many former colleagues and students braved awful weather to attend. While there was sadness widely expressed at the loss of familiar buildings all agreed that we were proud to be associated with the school. We celebrated its past successes and heartily wished all current staff and students a most enjoyable transfer to the new buildings in September.

"On a personal note I am delighted that current Head Teacher David Simons has committed The Cornwallis Academy to continue support for the work of The Fundanami Trust which I established in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The Trust helps to establish libraries, computer rooms and reading schemes in schools which are devoid of the splendid facilities available at The Cornwallis Academy."

Following speeches made by Mr Wood and Mr Simons, guests enjoyed a live performance from Maidstone band Kaleidophone (the bassist is a former Cornwallis student while the drummer is an ex member of staff) and many had their photographs taken by professional photographer Tony West.

During the evening £70.60 was collected for Crossroads Care West Kent. This is a local charity that is struggling to survive in the current climate. They provide free, home-based respite to carers and run a Young Carers' Project which supports children and young people (aged 17 and below).