I am thinking of MTS JS on the day you are all starting back for the new school  year. This is the first time in thirty eight years I will not be doing the same.

I am sending this e-mail to thank everyone for the fantastic send off I got at the end of last term. It took several hours to read the hundreds of letters and cards from boys, past and present, parents and staff, and were greatly appreciated.  I was greatly moved by many of your kind words. The presents I received were amazing.  With money I was given, I bought a laptop and also a TV for our apartment in Spain, as we hope to spend more time there now we are retired. Sadly the sun lounger some of the staff bought has not had as much use this summer as I would have liked !

This summer I have been helping to organise the World Firefighter Games in Liverpool, and Ruth and I are visiting our daughter in Bangkok in October. I will be continuing my voluntary work with the Liverpool Seafarers Centre, so I will have lots to do.

I am sure the school will continue to thrive and I will follow its progress with interest.

Can I offer my best wishes to all who work hard to make Merchants what it is and thank you again for all your wonderful gifts and sentiments.