#Trinity60‍

The preparations had been inconspicuous but were doubtless extensive, and it was this, perhaps, that contributed most to the relaxed atmosphere surrounding the visit. We did, however, wait rather a long time whilst assorted dignitaries — including the Mayor of Croydon — took their places. On a raised platform sat the Chairman of the Board of Governors, the Headmaster, and the guest of honour, Sir Douglas Bader. It was the Year of the Disabled and so an apt time for the official opening ceremony of the Trinity lift. A great deal of money and hard work had gone into the project and the Chairman thanked everyone for their contribution in these fields in a short but nevertheless moving speech about disabled people in Croydon. The Headmaster paid particular attention to helping the handicapped, and made a point of thanking Mr Ollington for his organisation and involvement in sponsored activities. He gave a short history of Sir Douglas' amazing career — playing for the Harlequins before becoming a flying ace in the RAF. His time is now spent in a less physical (but not necessarily less tiring) manner encouraging handicapped people like himself.

A modest Sir Douglas took the stand, wavering precariously, it seemed, near the edge of the platform. With a quick glance and a smile at his audience, he said, reassuringly, 'Don't worry, I'm not going to fall off.' Everyone then realised it was not going to be one of those boring, pretentious ceremonies that only a few people seem to enjoy. The chatty speech that followed would have boosted even the most disheartened person, with reference to all the activities now open to handicapped people — wheelchair basketball and the like. It was another short but effective talk and was warmly applauded after a vote of thanks from the School Captain. The 'Lift Party', as it was called, witnessed the blessing and dedication of the new facility by the Vicar of Shirley, and the formal handing over of the key to David Williams was then able to take place. After a ceremonial ride up and down — probably to escape the omnipresent 'Advertiser' photographer — Sir Douglas took part in a demonstration of one of the chair lifts that seem to have blended into the background on the stairs very well. It had been a different kind of ceremony — the guest of honour even seemed to have enjoyed himself.

Written by Richard Bunce (Student 1976-83)