Somme hero trip tribute

Kingsmead's 2008 trip to France departed from recent tradition by spending a moving day visiting the major sites of conflict from summer 1916 in the Battle of the Somme.

After visiting the Thiepval Memorial to 72,000 men who were never found, the party ended the day with a simple ceremony at the graveside of former pupil John Webster, who died of his wounds during the first two weeks of the terrible conflict.

A small cross, beautifully made by Kingsmead staff members Dennis and Colin Langley, was laid on the grave along with tributes which were hand written by Year 10 pupils Abby Williams, Chris Simpson, Tom Wrightson and Matthew Schanck.

In a short address, Mr Lupson reminded pupils that John was one of the first pupils at the school, and that he walked the same corridors as all those present. Mr Lupson then concluded with a prayer.

The party, who were complimented on their outstanding behaviour by the hotel manager among others, spent a further day at Parc Asterix before returning home.