THE event on Saturday, July 4 went off without a hitch with over 100 pupils attending and some ex-teachers.

The event was raising money for Cancer Research, which was picked by Jess the daughter of Samantha Crumplin (Lawrence) who sadly passed away a couple of years ago (she was in our year).

A couple of days before the event, I was looking through various old Chase news letters, and came across the following from March 1992, under the achievements and mentions section, which took my breath away:

"Samantha Lawrence & friends in 8WO raised funds for Cancer Research"

23 years later and we were holding an event, in honour of Samantha, for the same charity that she raised money for years before - talk about coincidence.

In total on the night we have raised over £1000, thanks to donations and a raffle, with some very generous prizes donated by local businesses - our thanks for their generosity for these donations.

Our ex-headmaster, David Fawbert attended the event and gave a moving speech and helped with the raffle. He also helped with an amazing collection newspaper cuttings and archives from the Chase which were displayed around the room.

Ian Ruhback, one of the pupils from our year, kindly donated DJ equipment and a Photo Booth, which provided some hilarious photos and entertainment from the night.

I'd like to thank the following, who were members of the planning committee for their support in making this happen - Simon Rusling. Liz Dodd, Claire Lewis, Tom Kidd, Mandy Cooper, Becky Anderson and Naomi Luckman.

What's next? We have another reunion planned for 2020 (to celebrate 25 years), but I've currently got my eye on trying to resurrect the Chase Summer Ball and bring it to a whole new generation. The current headmaster from the Chase can expect a phone call!

STEVEN KILKLINE