I was a boarder at the school from Form 2 to Form 7 and completed my time at KEGS in 1961, when Bob Elliott was still headmaster and then went to the Royal Veterinary College, London. On graduation in 1966, I went to work in Holsworthy, North Devon, for the practice of Penhale and Son. I worked there for approximately three years, then decided to see the world. At that stage, New Zealand was actively recruiting veterinary surgeons, and offered a free passage to who successfully applied. On the basis that, if I didn’t like it, everywhere else was on the way “home”, I set off to see the world – and never came back!
Initially, I worked at a small place called Opunake, in the province of Taranaki, and then moved to the area just South of Auckland, where I worked (in large-animal practice) until I retired, for health reasons, in 2001 – but continued to do occasional work, including supervision of the import/export of live animals, primarily race horses, through Auckland Airport. Because of my interest in animals, I have taken an active interest in the work of the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind, Guide Dog Services.
I have, however, returned to the UK for the occasional holiday, and have visited the old school – much changed since my day – for a quick look around. My only direct contact with the school is through another ex-pupil who has emigrated to New Zealand, Chris Auchinvole, with whom I have maintained occasional contact – we live some distance apart.
© Old Burians' Association 2024