News from former pupils
Rob 'Bob' Hall
Rob Hall, who left the school in 2011, is currently a drummer with Llandudno rockers Catfish and the Bottlemen, and has been nominated for Best British Rock Drummer by leading online music site Music Radar.
It has been a memorable few months for the group, who are currently in the midst of a sold out UK Tour.
They topped the Album Chart for the first time with their second release The Ride, and have drawn rave reviews from their recent tour of the United States.
The drummer will look to add an individual accolade to the many Bottlemen triumphs over the last year, which include winning Best Breakthrough Act at the Brit Awards.
There are a number of high profile names among the list of nominees, including Gary Powell of the Libertine, Matt Helders of the Arctic Monkeys/Iggy Pop, Will Champion of Coldplay and Kasabian’s Ian Matthews.
Mr McDuff, said: “This is a fantastic recognition for Rob and one that is thoroughly deserved after such a fantastic year with Catfish and the Bottlemen.
“To be nominated in such a prestigious list just show how far they have come, and I hope everyone that everyone takes the time to vote.”
Anyone wishing to vote for Rob can do so at http://www.musicradar.com/news/drums/who-is-the-best-british-rock-drummer-of-2016-643970
Dr Mark Baker, who left the school in 2003, is leading a group of volunteers’ intent of fixing the historic Gwrych Castle, which overlooks Abergele.
The project has been shortlisted for a public vote in Tesco’s #BagsofHelp initiative, which will see three community projects awarded grants of £12,000, £10,000 and £8,000 – all raised from the 5p bag charge.
A post on the Trust’s Facebook page, said: “When you shop you will be given a token and with that you will have the opportunity to vote for the Gwrych Castle Garden Restoration!
“This grant will enable the Trust to restore the historic formal gardens back to its former glory. The aim of the Trust is to ensure that the public has access to this great heritage asset. The re-creation of this designed landscape as a community garden provides a new chapter in the castle’s history.”
The Grade I listed site was left to rot for decades, but the Trust, which comprises of 65 volunteers and was formed in 1997, has restored the impressive Gardener’s Tower and they lit the stove and main fireplace for the first time in 100 years at their Open Day in May.
Vicky Thornley
Rower Vicky Thornley, together with her partner Kathy Grainger, were situated on float 10 during the parade, which took place on Monday, October 17 and drew more than 150,000 to the city.
Speaking at the time, Thornley said: “I am so thankful to Katherine because she did such a great job.
“It was quite a big head wind. I am not sure what happened in the end where it just got a bit tight or whatever.
“You think about the last 100 metres but a silver medal is pretty nice.”
The parade to celebrate achievements during Rio 2016 featured a host of stars including Jade Jones, Jess Ennis-Hill and Max Whitlock.
The procession started at the Museum of Science and Industry and ended in Albert Square where 400 athletes gathered on stage.
Team GB set an Olympic record in Rio 2016 by winning 67 medals - two more than they managed at London 2012.
Singer Rebecca Ferguson and Kaiser Chiefs performed live to the crowds in Albert Square, where the parade ended.
Andrew Fenby in action for Leicester Tigers
Andrew Fenby, who left the school in 2004, has penned a three month deal with Saracens after initially announcing the end to his playing days whilst a member of the London Irish squad.
It is expected that the Rhos on Sea native will join the second placed side in time for their clash with Aviva Premiership leaders Wasps this weekend.
The chartered accountant can play either wing or full-back and will provide some much-needed depth to a back line that has been plagued by injuries since the season began.
Director of rugby Mark McCall, said: “With a number of injuries and suspensions to our backline we are very happy to bring a player of Andrew’s talent into the group.
“He’s 30-years of age and has played over 100 professional games in the Pro12 and the Aviva Premiership, so he is an experienced player. We feel that he can make a valuable contribution to our squad.”
Fenby, who announced his retirement in May, scored a hat-trick for Irish against Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup pool stage last season, and lists Newcastle and Scarlets among his former clubs.
He began his career playing for school sides as well as turning out for Llandudno Rugby Club.