Information Circular
[Forward to later ICs]
Items listed in chronological sequence
27 December 2011 – From Stuart McLaren
Hi Reg, Googling HMSO, as you do, by way of an anodyne antidote to the current festive freneticism, I came across this article about some WW2-era HMSO pencils that turned up in an old Blue Bird toffee tin: http://www.blackcountrybugle.co.uk/News/Wartime-pencils-from-Her-Majestys-Stationery-Office-14122011.htm
Thought your readers might be interested or at least mildly diverted. Best wishes, Stuart McLaren
Hello Stuart, Thank you — an excellent return to earth following the annual hostilities. The very sight of a bundle of 48 Codes is likely to bring old Clerks of Stationery out in a lather — can you hear me, KJ Coleman? Reg
24 December 2011 – Electronic Oldies
Thanks to the efforts of Robert Stutely and Astutech we sent our first Electronic Christmas Card to HMSOldies this year. Next year it could be a thought-wave. Anyway, we have had dozens of responses wishing old colleagues seasonal good wishes. In order of receipt: Pater Caldicott-Turner, Cecil Hughes, Angela Brandish-Hughes, Dave Crump, Stella Crump, Sue Holden, Paul Barnett, Dan Lavery, Gordon Parfitt, Brian Lambirth, Bob Nelson, Alan Crabtree, Michael Aidan, Cath Mason, Jeanne Southgate, Charles Lucas, Bill Greenaway, Derek Rutherford, Gerry Aldus, Jim and Ross Richardson, Alison Womack, Geoff Bedford, Roy Millington, Jim Wretham, Sue Prutton, Mary Robinson, John and Margery Elderton, Paul Barnard — and still they are coming . . .
13 December 2011 – Oldies Roasting On An Open Fire . . .
Jack Frost was nipping at the nose of those keeping up the 'second Tuesday in December' tradition atThe Ship , Borough Road this year. Travellers from Norwich (Bradbury, Plackett, Ekers, Durkin, Sue Whitaker, Ann and John Eason, Walker) were met by Arthur Brunwin (Portsmouth and ITW) and several retired and in a couple of cases working (what that?) Reprographic Managers (Stoten, Peers-Jones, Holmes, Jukes and others) and Commercial Suppliers — Allman, Magowan, Hancock, Coppin, Rust. Even Customers — we can't have upset all of them — including Pudner, Bankier and Ray Smith. Needless to say the pub — and seemingly every other pub on the walk back to Liverpool Street — was heaving.
Another event — Norwich this time — celebrated the 38th anniversary of the annual Print-heavy reunion. This brought out, among three handfuls of revellers, stalwarts including Dick Smith, Cecil Hughes, Glyn Jones, George James, Roger Nash, Allan Reid, Roy Marchant plus the usual thirsty entourage.
4 December 2011 – From Billy Stevenson
Dear Reg, There’s a lot of gloom about these days, so I thought the following might cheer the members up.
TIME AND MOTION
Paddy Murphy and Seamus were in the school-yard bragging of how great their fathers are. Paddy says: "Well my Da runs the fastest, He can fire an arrow, and start to run, I tell you, he gets there before the arrow".
Murphy says: "Ha! You think that's fast! My Da is a hunter. He can shoot his gun and be there before the bullet".
Seamus listens to the other two and shakes his head. He then says: "You two know nothing at all about fast. My Da is a Civil Servant. He finishes work at 4.30pm and he is home at 3.45pm".
Wishing yourself Reg, and the team a smashing Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Billy
Nice one Billy! You have it exactly: we need a bit of cheer, not least on HMSOldies. Many thanks for the Christmas greetings: heartily reciprocated. There's a Virtual Pint awaiting you in The Garrick. All the very best. Reg
4 December 2011 – From Norman Armstrong
Reg. It is quite a while since our last correspondence but I still peruse the Information Circulars when time permits. I was greatly amused with George Rokahr's article on the City of Norwich Pipe Band visit to a nudist colony in the October Issue. I hope the band members were following the strict rules on wearing highland dress "nothing must be worn under the kilt".
If so, and the fresh Norfolk air was reaching the "nether regions", then they have something in common with their nudist hosts – only a Scottish plaid protects their modesty. As a former Pipe Major I wish the City of Norwich Pipe Band best wishes. When living in Norwich I once "piped" in the haggis for the local Burns Society. By the way the Kitchen Bar is still going strong and I had a lovely meal there last week.
Congratulations on keeping this vital link open for HMSO colleagues. Norman Armstrong
Hello Norman, How good to hear from you –and thank you for your kind words. Coincidentally I have just been in email contact with the Webmaster of the Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood. He is based in Belfast - his family lived near mine, Agnes Street way, and he is a familiar face in the Garrick, and was a patron of The Kitchen in the good old days. Glad to hear it is still doing well. I must get over there next year –will give you (and a couple of others) suitable pre-warning! All the best –and keep piping. Only 6 weeks or so to Burns' night. Reg
21 November 2011 – Sixty Years On
More shenanigans with our Pension Providers. An ex-HMSO colleague, who prefers to remain pseudonymous until his case is sorted out, has offered the following based on his current case:
'The former-HMSO grapevine indicates that some pension records may not have been passed to Capita who now run the Civil Service pensions, and that these pension records may be languishing in an archive that will require some detective work by DWP to resurrect the entitlement. Anyone experiencing difficulties or about to claim a pension entitlement or who has not had recent contact with Capita or DWP might find the email address included in this November 2011 note from DWP to be of some use:'
'It has recently come to our attention that some HMSO pensions
were not correctly issued to Capita when they took over the
responsibility as paying authority. Unfortunately this means
we must “rebuild” the pension that was issued and supply this
to Capita. I have requested the appropriate files, which should
contain the details required. This will not be a quick fix, as the
files may have been archived, but please be assured we are
looking into this and will provide you with confirmation once
all the details are in place.
If you have any further questions please feel free to contact us at
MYCSP.NEWCASTLE@DWP.GSI.GOV.UK '
A. Pensioner
Young Musicians' Concert (Norwich) December 2011
Ivor Hosgood writes: The third of this year's Young Musicians' Concerts takes place in the United Reformed Church, Princes Street, Norwich, on Sunday 11 December 2011 at 2.30 p.m. (Doors open at 2.00 p.m.)
Making her début in this series is Ellen-May Shipp (Mezzo-soprano) the UEA's School of Music's choice for the trust's 2011-12 scholarship. She will be joined by Alison Lincoln (piano). Returning to the series is the 'cellist, Andrew Harsley, the winner of the String Prize in the 2010 Norfolk Young Musician Competition. He is being joined by Jonathan Wortley (piano). Completing the programme are the eight members of The St Peter Mancroft Norwich Choral Scholars directed by Jody Butler.
They have chosen a wide range of musical styles, including works by Bloch, Brahms, Donizetti, Gershwin, Oscar Hammerstein II, Haydn, Kelly, Lerner & Loewe, Minsky, Palestrina, Rachmaninov, Sondheim & Bernstein, and Schumann. There is something for everyone, therefore. After the event, please join the rest of the audience for a Mince Pie and a cup of tea or coffee.
Entrance by programme is ￡6.00 (under 18s, ￡3.00) including the printed programme and post-concert refreshments, and may be reserved at the door using the Booking Form appearing below. Please join us then for a music-filled afternoon performed by our highly-talented young musicians – some of whom are working towards becoming professionals – you will not be disappointed!
Programme may be subject to alteration. Full disabled facilities are available. The trustees would like to take this opportunity of wishing you a very Merry and Musical Christmas 2011 and a Very Happy, Prosperous and Healthy New Year 2012.
IVOR R.HOSGOOD MBE
14 November 20114 – Pensions – HMRC – and total confusion
Good morning Reg, I have another epistle on the subject of pensions and tax, following the winding up of the TSO pension scheme and the transfer to the Financial Assistance Service (sounds like the old NAB - remember them?). This applied both to employed pensioners and to those in receipt of widow's or dependents' pensions.
Don't panic – you aren't paying too much tax!
Amongst several communications from HM Revenue and Customs recently I received a coding notice (P2X) which reads:
"You need a tax code so CAPITA HARTSHEAD can work out how much tax to take off . . . . We have asked CAPITA HARTSHEAD to use code BR for this year, which means you will pay tax at 20% on your CAPITA HARTSHEAD income."
HMSO Pensioners will appreciate the alarm with which I read this, as of course CAPITA HARTSHEAD pay the Civil Service pension! The solution took three phone calls.
HMRC told me that they had CAPITA HARTSHEAD down as a new pension provider (tax reference 406/JA34863). I told them that CAPITA HARTSHEAD had been paying my Civil Service pension from the beginning. HMRC accepted that but suggested that something at CH had changed, and I should discuss with them.
CAPITA HARTSHEAD said that nothing had changed, and that their tax reference was 948/500 (or 948/520) and that the new reference was nothing to do with them. But the company, and other parts of CAPITA do pay many pensions. I mentioned that The Stationery Office Pensions Scheme had recently been taken over by the Financial Assistance Service – and found to my surprise that the address on the FAS letter was almost the same as that on the Capita Hartshead letter.
The FAS confirmed that CH did indeed administer the FAS/ex TSO pension scheme – they are even in the same very large room at Darlington!
For myself, my FAS/TSO pension being only ￡20-ish per month, the loss of 20% doesn't matter as it will simply mean paying some of my self-assessment bill earlier. But anybody who has a substantial TSO/FAS payment would be as well to provide the details requested by HMRC on form P161 if sent (or speak to them if not, on 0845 3000 627). Be prepared for a long wait, and maybe sign-up for an all-inclusive phone-call package as HMRC have about 4 menu levels and will usually take 10-15 minutes to answer on a good day.
This is a public service broadcast and no liability is accepted for anything I might have wrong. Your mileage may vary, your pension will certainly vary.
Ian Billings
Tel: (+44) 08450 090939
Norvic Philatelics P O Box 119, Dereham, NR20 3YN, United Kingdom
Website: http://www.norvic-philatelics.co.uk
Online store: http://www.norphil.co.uk/catalog
News blog: http://norphil.blogspot.com
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Ian_norvic
Hello Ian, Thank you for your public-spirited note (which we have added here for The Greater Good) and for braving the HMRC 'help'line. Also for reminding me about NAB –the queues outside Irene House, Balham, everyone wearing a hat, proper trousers and shoes. Where did it all go? Sorry, yes, I am sure that your reassurances will be most welcome. Best wishes, Reg
12 Nov 2011 – Darting into the fray
Rummaging through the desk for a set of darts for our annual Pipe Club of Norfolk match (organised by KJ Coleman) I found a set of Unicorns - the Jim Pike's had long gone - in a box with a folded piece of paper headed Fixtures 'Pairs' Sections A & B gave rules, dates and names for a competition to be held in the Sovereign Club commencing 4 September 1978, finishing 9 February 1979.
The organiser of the competition is anonymous, but clues suggest he may have been Steve Johnson. The teams were divided into two sections, as follows:
Section 'A': R Smith and T Holcroft; C Pulford and V Burling; I Webb and A Kelly; R Dart and P Felgate; M Seppings and M Wilson; N Perkins and G Collinson; R Walker and J Struthers; K White and S Johnson; R Borrow and E Betts; S Smithson and R Dye.
Section 'B': P Bradbury and M Bradbury; G Went and I Moore; K Evans and A Morrell; D Street and A Froud; M Green and S Newell; P Leach and G Sinden; D Cass and J Sutton; R Chapman and D Harrold; R Sayers and R Perfect; D Falconer and L Goffin (later replaced by T Bokenham).
Although there is no indication of the eventual winning pair, a results table after ten or so games suggests the White/Johnson and Webb/Kelly pairing from 'A' and Sayers/Perfect and Went/Moore from 'B' were in with a chance. But never write off Dick Smith - all I know is that the Walker/Struthers team was not on the final podium Probably our pipes got in the way of the 'arrers.
Thirty-three years ago. Anyone out there remember the result?
23 October 2011 – From David Silver
Dear Reg, Having arrived home and finally got over jet lag ― waking up in the middle of the night and falling asleep in the middle of dinner (I hate this getting old rubbish), clearing the huge backlog of mail, sorting out the garden etc etc I am ready for another holiday. A big thank to you and everybody who came toThe Eagle . If I start names I am sure to miss someone so again thank you all, again it was without doubt one of the highlights of the holiday, and many happy memories.
We were feeling dog deprived by the time we left and could not wait to see our gorgeous Tia who had not forgotten us. She was a rescue dog 18 months old when we got her and been badly mistreated but apart from loud noises, like thunder, is still a bit timid but gets plenty of love. She is a Doberman/Huskie cross.
Thanks for HMSOldies, which we in the colonies find great for keeping up to date with what is going on and of course with any scandal! As with all things, our holiday went all too quickly and as it was our last trip ― unless we win the lottery ― it will be looking at the web site photos and seeing you are all getting younger.
All best wishes, David
Hello David, Excellent to hear from you and that you have successfully negotiated your return to the Antipodes. It was a pleasure to see you, and rest assured that there will be a welcome for you when you decide to return. Though, with the Winter upon us, I wouldn't hurry . . . Best wishes to you both. Reg
21 October 2011 – from Philip Marriage – Last Lap
Hi Reg et al. We reached the end of the road across Bhutan at a little place called Samdrup Jongkhar which has nothing to recommend it other than it's bang slap on the border with India. On the drive there we glimpsed the tops of a series of snow-capped peaks and at one high pass the whole range was exposed, visible right across Bhutan as these mountains are in Tibet. Our guide, Gyeltshen, said that in all the years he'd been doing these trips he's never seen these mountains so we were lucky.
In the evening we sat down with him to sort the best way to reach Guwahati airport. There's been recent problems in this area with targeted attacks by militants on areas frequented by tourists and vehicles bearing Bhutanese number plates. He proposed we switch to an Indian vehicle or else we would have to join a military protected convoy which could then jeopardise our arrival time in Guwahati and if we missed the flight we would have to wait days for the next.
So we agreed and early next morning (actually our 43rd Wedding Anniversary) duly waved goodbye to Gyeltshen and Kinley our driver for these past three weeks and waited for our Indian driver to appear. It was very early, 6am and dawn was just breaking. We waited and waited watching Samdrop Jongkhar slowly come alive, with the town dogs looking for somewhere to rest up for the day after their night's activities, and women setting up their stalls in the market place having slept there overnight to be first and have a prime spot. Time slipped by and still no car and a slow apprehension of abandonment came over us until we received a call from Gyeltshen to say he's just seen the Indian driver at the border crossing - we hadn't appreciated that Indian time is 30 minutes behind Bhutan, and so he eventually turned up and with some relief we piled in the luggage and set off for the border. There we overtook a long line of vehicles, including Gyeltshen and Kinley waiting patiently for their military escort.
We sped on and into India, but not for long for at 'Foreigners Check Post' we had to pull over and report our presence to the Indian Authorities which in this case was an official finishing his ablutions and he wasn't going to be rushed to open his office. The sun was just getting up and we sat and waited watching India come to life with people riding past on bicycles, fires being lit for breakfast, and small children appearing to stare at us. Then the military escorted convoy passed by and we waved once more to our ex guide and driver. The official meticulously copied every detail from our passports into his ledger and with an impressive thump of his rubber stamp we were once more on our way, however there were military check posts every mile or two but no more hold-ups and we quickly caught up and overtook the convoy and one last wave to Gyeltshen and Kinley - they were hoping to use the fast road across the flat plains of northern India to get back to their homes in Paro in one day, or maybe two - it had taken us three weeks. We'd calculated the number of bends in the road across Bhutan and found that there are roughly twenty-five per mile, less than a hundred yards of straight road before the next bend. That made around 15,000 on the 600-mile long road. In fact there is only one stretch of straight road, maybe a half-mile long and that has been fitted with speed bumps - an 'Accident Prone Area'.
The early morning sun bathed the fields in a golden glow as we passed huge fields of tea plantations (this is after all Assam), and palms and lush vegetation - every bit as I imagined India to be. The roads became busier as we neared Guwahati after about two hours driving, crossing the wide Brahmaputra River and into the city to find the airport and our flight to Bangkok. Our next concern was whether our flight was likely to be affected by the floods which we knew from the headlines had claimed over 300 lives to the north of Bangkok. We were told it was touch and go whether the flood defences would hold. We waited and then were told our flight was delayed and in was four hours later that we were finally informed that the plane had left Paro and was on its way. Security was very tight - we went through security twice and even our hold luggage was x-rayed in our presence. Just before we went on board we were frisked once again. We surmised that a VIP from Bhutan - maybe the Prime Minister - was on board. After all he has to travel in the same plane as everyone else because there is no other. We eventually flew into Bangkok late in the evening, seeing nothing of the floods in the darkness, a memorable Wedding Anniversary being in three countries (Bhutan, India and Thailand) in one long exhausting day.
Next morning we had a look around the centre of Bangkok which showed few sign of the floods although there were sand-bags fronting all the shops, however as we neared the river there were duckboards and planks on sandbags everywhere and some low-lying shops already under about three feet of water. We had a short trip on the wide Chao river which was flowing very fast and estimated to be six feet higher than normal. It was within a foot of the top of the concrete embankment, with houses and shops on the other side clearly vulnerable well below the water level.
A last meal with our Australian travelling companions Adrian (ex HMSO) & Audrey Young before departing to the airport and our flight back to Blighty. As the plane taxied on the runway it began once more to rain heavily . . .
Philip
Hello Philip . . . I think you win the prize for exotic locations to celebrate a 43rd wedding anniversary. I was thinking of The Great Wall for ours. Lovely restaurant, just down the Dereham Road. Good to hear that you are throwing yourself into the excitement of it all. Another illustrated book on its way, once you get your breath back? By the way, it's Norwich Beer Festival next week: an ideal opportunity for you to get your body fluids re-westernised . . . All the best, and a safe journey. Reg
11 October 2011 – From Philip Marriage (somewhere in Bhutan)
Hi. Well we've made it as far as Bumthang (pronounced Boomtang so I'm told) more than half way across Bhutan. We've left the bigger places like Paro and Thimphu behind and are now in a beautiful alpine-like valley with farms and homesteads all around. A few days back we visited Punakha where the Bhutan Royal Wedding is to take place in two days time. The radio and tv here is full of it - in fact very little else - and the tv has a count down to the big day. The Dzong (fortress, monastery and administrative centre) was beautifully decorated with all new prayer flags and everything newly painted. We visited the huge monastery room where the ceremony will take place and I must admit it was impressive with gold everywhere (unfortunately no cameras allowed inside the temple).
The next day we drove on to Trongsa and by chance happened upon a local 'Festival' (more like a religious service) with monks performing sacred dances dressed in colourful elaborate costumes and grotesque face masks - each dance telling a story watched avidly by the local populace who gain merit by their attendance in this totally Buddhist society.
The one road through the mountains is generally good, a little like the single track roads through the Highlands of Scotland, with occasional stretches of good tarmac, but mostly with holes and the odd boulder so our driver has to constantly weave his way along, looking for trucks passing the other way and then it's a bit of a squeeze with long drops down to the valley bottom. We've encountered a few landslides - probably due to the recent earthquake in Sikkim, but the road has been made passable by workmen. We've noticed a little damage to the monasteries but most seem to have survived with just the odd crack but a couple had some walls which collapsed and one part of a Nunnery we saw high on a mountain hike had completely burnt down when a butter lamp overturned during the 'quake and set the building alight.
It is interesting that the Royal Couple will be travelling on these same roads following their wedding to meet and greet the people and will have to put up with all the jolts and bumps and repairs just the same as us and there is only the one road.
We have another 'Festival' tomorrow and a hike in the afternoon. Barbara's bad hip and my dodgy knee seem to be standing up well so we're enjoying every minute. Fine sunny days, but a bit cool in the evenings at this altitude. We've reached the point when most tourists turn around and head back to Paro and the one airport to depart Bhutan, however we're driving on eastwards to eventually reach Gawahati in Northern India to catch a flight to Bangkok and then home. We may not have another chance to email home - we'll see . . . Philip
Hello Philip. Good to hear that you are still enjoying the Land of the Rising Tarmac. We will add to HMSOldies in an endeavour to advise other intrepid travellers. As for me, I have not left the Ring Road since you left the country . . . all human life is here (especially passing my window at Club Closing Time: around 3.30 a.m. these days). New Tesco opening soon down Dereham Road . . . shops stocking up for Christmas . . . wind and rain in the air . . . on the whole I would stay where you are. All the best. Reg
10 October 2011 – From Tony Durier. Re: George Rokahr
Hello Reg, I had a laugh at George Rokahr and his Pipe Band, it took me back years. I have a friend who many years ago took employment in a private company as a Security Officer. His first posting was to St. Crispins on the night shift. Part of his duties was to walk the building at certain time intervals activating security turn keys that were located on all floors. It was his first night on the job in the early hours of the morning when doing his rounds in the darkness he nearly jumped out of his skin when George and his mates in full highland gear suddenly struck up the bagpipes and marched down one of the corridors. Can you imagine it! Apparently they used to practice there. Regards, Tony.
Hello Tony. Thank you for your response. Yes, I remember the days . . . . George was AD(OS)1 and in charge of Accommodation so he combined his march with a quick inspection of the Contract Cleaner's efficiency! Perhaps the skirl of the pipes can still be heard on dark winter nights, in the lonely corridors of the deserted Sovereign House . . . . All the best. Reg
6 October 2011 – A Cut Above
When Mike Betts walked the corridors of Sovereign House, bent on a surprise Audit . . . . . . . . . . when he walked the streets of London, bent on another rollicking from Government Customers . . . . . . . . . . did he ever think that he, as Chairman of the largest Norfolk brewery, would ever appear on the cover of Norfolk Nips in the company of an HRH wielding a knive in a gloved hand? Of course he did.
[Photo courtesy CAMRA]
Mike Betts adds: Reg, You are a star thank you. Princess Ann was pleased to accept our offer of a case of Norfolk NIP for the occasion of the wedding of her daughter Zara to Mike Tindall, a few weeks after the Royal Norfolk Show!
4 October 2011 – From George Rokahr
Back in the summer, the City of Norwich Pipe Band played at a Leisure Centre a few miles out of Norwich. We were in full dress-feather bonnets, plaids, hair sporrans, spats, the lot. This Leisure Centre was also a Nudist Colony. Fortunately, it was a little cool when we marched down the roadway to the marquee, where we gave our main performance, so all the people watching us en route had their clothes on.
It was a different story in the marquee. Most of the audience had their clothes on but some did not. During our second performance, I found myself facing a bloke who had massive knackers. I felt totally inadequate. I tried to look at the Pipe Major when we were playing but he, knacker man, kept moving about and it wasn't easy. I couldn't believe it was possible to have tackle that big.
In our first performance it was a little chilly and, so as far as I could tell, all the audience had their clothes on. When we marched off for the interval, the band came to a halt at the marquee entrance. We dismissed there and I found myself staring at this huge woman's naked backside sat on a bench about 3 feet from me. Being a bit on the short side meant that this bum was nearly waist high on me. Ye Gods!
The whole band had its photograph taken with 2 or 3 naked middle aged ladies. We kept our uniforms on but they had nothing on. They told us that the photograph would appear in the next edition of Health and Efficiency. Yippee!
Anyway, apparently, we were a great success and everyone enjoyed our performance.
Hello George. What a fine story! It certainly made me laugh, so I am sure that it will do the same for others –especially those who are familiar with your expertise in the Piping of Bags. However, I have copied to the HMSOldies Committee on Decency for their ruling pre-publication. Anyway, I'm off to look for back copies of Health and Efficiency . . . . . . All the best. Reg
30 September 2011 – From Jean Storey
Hello Reg. What about a mention of David Evans (Clerical Officer HMSO) just celebrated his 80th birthday (15 September) and still manages to cycle 80 miles on his birthday – wish I could! Jean
Hello Jean. Thank you for the prompt. Yes, I remember Dave as a fit young man in Finance. 80? Surely you mean 60 . . . . .? Reg
26 September 2011 – Bring Out Your Flicks
Steve Linehan works for TSO London, but has sterling credentials as Night Comp at SSPP and Leading Supp Hand on the Vote Ship. Anyone not understanding this has never had a liquid breakfast in thePrince William Henry.
Anyway, Steve has had the excellent idea of rescuing as many of the old HMSO Promotional DVDs as possible and committing them to up-to-date technology before they crumble into dust.
He has locatedTime and Tide andHansard Press . A copy ofChange: Getting Into Shape has been located (but not, so far the sequelChange: Have you got any spare for an out-of-work lithographer? ).
Have you got any old HMSO DVDs you can release on loan or permanently? Don't worry: you have them legitimately. Trust me – I was Director of Marketing. Anyway, please have a look and let us know. Steve Ward (TSO St Crispins) has agreed to act as Postbox for Norwich-based donations and an address for postage will be sent for those offered from further afield.
Who can forget the film featuring Mr Byte with his hair fashioned into the letters HMSO and his catch phrase 'Hmmm . . . so?' I find that we all can, after a few pints of duplicating fluid . . . . . . . .
(Ed.)
26 September 2011 – Blanket Appeal: Jeanne Southgate writes . .
For some years I have been involved with the Salvation Army soup run that offers soup and a sandwich to homeless folk 365 days a year in Norwich. The 'run' is organised from the Salvation Army Citadel in St Benedicts. Apart from the food, we try and provide sleeping bags or blankets to provide our 'clients' with a bit of warmth and protection from the weather.
We are now very short of blankets and I'm told that the cost of sleeping bags has gone up hugely – so this is a plea to any Oldies who may have blankets that they no longer use if, like us, they've moved on to duvets. If so, could they please donate them to the Salvation Army. They can be left at the Citadel or folk can contact me and I'll arrange for collection (01603 451160).
Sad to say, the need has not diminished in the time I've been helping. Most evenings about 30, sometimes more (men, women all ages), come to our station near Norwich Market needing both food and drink, but also a kind word of support.
Thank you.
23 September 2011 – from Debs Green
Hi Reg. I hope that you are well! Re: April 1986: Judy Pritchard & Roy Arscott, I may be wrong and it is a bit of a long shot but is the lady on the right Liz Underwood? I think she worked in PMA with the likes of Mike Goldsmith.
Best regards from the Pipe Smoker’s daughter! Debs Green
Hello Debs. Good to hear from you, and for your suggestion as to who the mystery person might be in the photo (see Information Circular, 3 September 2011 – From Roy Arscott, recently published on HMSOldies) featuring Roy Arscott and Judy Pritchard. All the best - and, of course, to the Pipe Smoker. Reg
Note: Debs’ suggestion that the mystery person was Liz Underwood was subsequently confirmed by Dave Higgenbottam. Ed.
14 September 2011 – From Brian Blackmore
John, Have just seen your message via Reg. [see note from John Childs below, 11 September ] Like you, I took early retirement but at the age of 57, that was back in 1990! I retired to my home town of Brixham and now spend much of the time working and sailing on an 85 year old sailing trawler. In common with 51 others I own shares in it and am a Director, the Bosun and when sailing act as Mate. Much of the time is spent sailing around Torbay but we also do about four trips to France and the Channel Islands during the year. I used to do all the trips but Beryl had a stroke some years ago and whilst in reasonable health I have decided to cut out the long journeys, but I miss them! If you want to learn more about the boat go to www.vigilanceofbrixham.co.uk.
Can't say I would have liked your old job in the Inland Revenue. At least in Manchester it was possible to walk around the site or visit outstations for some variety. I still keep in contact with Barbara Nicholls so she keeps me up to date. Needless to say she doesn't work there nowadays. Another contact is Viv Rees who used to work in the Laboratory. Keep in touch. Brian
Hello Brian, Good to hear from you again. (Why is it when your name is mentioned I think of overhauled Gestetner 105s in Orsman Road?). All the best, Reg
13 September 2011 – From Billy Stevenson
Dear Reg, There is now a suitable premises for a coffee bar at 16 Arthur Street, Belfast. The Belfast Bookshop has gone, disappeared into cyberspace. It’s become a mere triple w (in small case). Where will the members of the legal profession now browse during their tea break? Will there be no more beautifully bound NI legal tomes? Will the Lord Chief Justice have to refer to his ‘Kindle’ to find the exact wording of Sect. 4, Para 6. What’s even more serious is the threat of pub closures. Think of the indignity of having to order a pint from The Kitchen Bar online (and make sure you spell Guinness correctly). Bob Dylan was right, The Times they are a Changin’. Wishing you all an abstemious Halloween. Billy
Hello Billy, You know how to drag the memory back to happy times. Mental pictures of Messrs Lavery, McCabe, McAuley, Jeannie, Paula, yourself - then you go and allude to the man that kept them all going: Pat Catney, guv'nor of The Kitchen Bar (the first pub I ever was in - taken by Uncle Frank, Gilpin's foreman French Polisher, when on holiday there around 1961). As you say, sad to see the old place go, but then again there was not too much history around the Arthur Street premises. And good to see that you are still on the ball. I'll raise a glass of abstemiousness to you in 48 days time, at Halloween. All the best - and an unabstemious All Saints Day to you. Reg
11 September 2011 – From John Childs
Hi Reg, I have just stumbled across the HMSOldies website and, boy, did it bring back memories! As you probably recall I joined HMSO at Atlantic House and moved to Norwich with the main move. Later I moved to Chadderton on promotion. After many happy years in HMSO, I went to the Inland Revenue on a Treasury Pool promotion and joined the Pensions Scheme Office in Esher, Surrey at the age of 40. The office moved to Nottingham after I had been there for ten years, but I had had my fill of moving around, so I took early retirement. The work of the Pensions Scheme Office was highly technical and I had to go on a six month training course before they would let me loose on a general section to do case work. Nobody in the office could stand the work: it was dreadful and I was glad to leave.
I look back on my time in HMSO with great fondness. I remember well John Butler, Maggie Crawley, Alex Okediachi, Jonathan Holtom, Charlie Lloyd, yourself, and in the Manchester regional office, Brian Blackmore, Ella Coyle, Ed Crickmore, Hugh McDermott and many many others who I am dredging up from my memory. Since retirement, I have joined a camera club and obtained the Associate distinction of the Royal Photographic Society. If you are that interested take a look at some of my stuff on www.farnboroughcameraclub.org.
My other half's daughter lives in Norwich so we come there several times a year. It would be wonderful to meet you, Reg, for a pint when I am next in your neck of the woods if that is OK with you. All the very best, John
Hello John, What a great start to the week! Must be getting on for 30 years since we last met. I still picture you in the Buddy Holly glasses you wore when the picture of the Supplies Office Machinery party was taken in 1967 (see HMSOldies photos). I am sure that old colleagues will be pleased to read that you are doing well - I have copied this note to some of them - and can tell you that John Butler, Margaret Crawley, Brian Blackmore (in the West Country), Hugh McDermott are still in occasional contact. I'm sure that Alex Okediachi is running an African country somewhere. You have made me wonder where Dick Soper might be these days - he moved to Bristol with Broughtons in the early 1970s.
Lovely photos. My granddaughters will love the animals - and I have pinched the 'Mooring Post' as a screensaver. Good to see that they think you responsible enough to be made Treasurer. Send me an email when you are next in Norwich and we will meet - also with Diane, who you may remember as Miss King when she worked in S5. Happy days. All the best, and keep in touch. I will pass on any contact we receive following HMSOldies publication. Reg
What we missed in the Norwich newspapers . . .
Correspondents (alright, Alan Cole) whose newspaper reading is more assiduous than ours have pointed out that not only did we miss the reference to the Diamond Wedding Anniversary of Dave and Stella Crump (belated congratulations to both) but also, in the Derek James article about The Talk nightclub, the paragraph: '. . . also playing will be the brilliant High Mileage, a great seven-piece outfit, who say they are Norwich's oldest, newest band . . . they are Harry Currie (guitar) . . . .' There's is a picture, including Harry, who for some reason seems to be sporting a grey wig.
6 September 2011 – From Jane Randle, Bookbinder
Hello Reg, I visited John Westwood yesterday afternoon because I am not able to attend a talk he is giving in Oxford to the Society of Bookbinders. What a fascinating time I had, and what a remarkable man. I am writing to you because he showed me a copy of 'From Layout to Graphic Design: 50 years of graphic design in HMSO' published in 2001. Is this book available to buy? Best wishes, Jane Randle
Hello Jane, Excellent to hear that John is still in good form and still able to hold an audience. I have copied your note to an old colleague of John's, who may be able to answer your specific question. Best wishes, Reg
5 Sept 2011 – Hugh McDermott reflects on Government Procurement
I thought you might be interested in the article (below) and would be very capable of adding information with regard to where HMSO fitted in to give a fuller picture. The web site is Spend Matters UK/Europe.
Best regards, Hugh
P.S. Been back in England working in the NHS for nearly four years in October, living in Bawtry, just outside Doncaster, still not sold our house in N.I.
UK GOVERNMENT COMES FULL-CIRCLE IN COLLABORATIVE PROCUREMENT
by Peter Smith on 5 September 2011, in Procurement Commentary
The Supplies Division of the PSA operated as a trading fund from 1976 and in 1984 was renamed The Crown Suppliers – the PSA continued to manage property. The Buying Agency evolved from the Liverpool Procurement Office of the Crown Suppliers, and in 1989 became a division of Crown Suppliers. There was a lot of discussion around privatising the Crown Suppliers in the late 80s, but eventually it was just closed down in 1991, but the Buying Agency remained and was established as a trading fund.
Why was the Liverpool Procurement Office set up in the first place? Remember the Toxteth riots of 1981? Michael Heseltine rushing up to Liverpool to sort it out? Well, creating the Procurement Office was one of a number of initiatives that Heseltine used to transfer or create jobs to Liverpool. (The PSA reported to him at the Department of Environment so he had that power). So even today, Government Procurement Service is in Liverpool because the Scousers rioted . . .
The Buying Agency was then one of the four organisations that Peter Gershon decided should merge to form OGC in 2000, when they were renamed Buying Solutions. And as we know, this year they became the Government Procurement Service, the delivery arm of the new central Whitehall Government Procurement set-up.
Phew! So what about the 'full circle' element?
Well, back in the olden days, the PSA had a mandate. All Government Departments (central at least – I’m not sure how far that extended, although remember at that time there were far fewer Agencies, NDPBs etc) had to buy from and through PSA contracts in areas such as energy, furniture, office supplies. Then through the 90s, we saw power shifted to individual departments and organisations, in the interests supposedly of flexibility and accountability.
Now, in 2011, we are back full circle. The PSA, who had a mandate, begat the Crown Suppliers, who begat the Buying Agency, who begat Buying Solutions, who begat GPS — who finally again have that mandate in central Government at least, as Cabinet Office drive to full collaborative procurement.
Plus ça change (plus c’est la même chose) . . .
30 years on, is government procurement back to where it started? No, its better in many ways, I’m sure, but isn’t it fascinating to see how history repeats itself! But as Dan, one of our regulars on the “comments” here, said the other day in the context of the OGC website going:
I think, in a few years, we will see a ‘new’ multi-million pound ‘initiative’ to disseminate government best practice around the public sector once they’ve made the easy wins in central government spend. Followed, a few years later by another ‘new’ multi-million pound initiative to focus more on central government spend. These things tend to go in cycles, both in the public sector and private sector.
Hello Hugh, Good to hear from you, and that you are respectably employed! And a holiday home in the Land of my Father — what could be better. Regarding the article on procurement, as an old friend of mine would have said, 'nearly right.' Tempting to put the record straight, but I don't want to risk being made an offer I can't refuse (Head of Government Procurement should be a doddle these days. How many ways are there to say 'You can't have it?') We will try it out on HMSOldies readers. All the best, Reg
3 September 2011 – From Jon Seth
Hello Reg,I recently found the HMS Oldies website and was so pleased to do so as it has brought back so many memories.I was one of the 1997 VER departures from Norwich, having worked for HMSO since August 1978 mainly in Publications in London and Norwich but prior to my departure in the Corporate HR team as one of the Corporate Training Officers based over at Colegate, Norwich with the the likes of Peter Griffiths, Paul Cunningham and Hazel Marchant.
As years are now marching on I am looking at pension entitlements etc, but I am having difficulty tracking down who the old HMSO pension administrator is. I have contacted Capita Hartshead but they only referred me to the Civil Service website, which doesn't appear to have HMSO listed. I thought it could be connected to the Cabinet Office but if you or any HMSOldie has the contact details to hand I would be very grateful. Great website and so many memories of names and faces contained on it. Best wishes. Jon Seth
Hello Jon, Thank you for your flattering comments, which we will take pleasure in publishing. I remember you in the good old days of Training. I still see Hazel and Paul around Norwich on occasions: I believe Peter Griffiths has moved away.
Some time ago (9 December 2009) we published a note from Paul Barnard which gave details of the administrators of the Civil Service Pension Scheme for HMSO as:
DWP Shared Services
Employee Services, Room BP 5202
Benton Park View
Longbenton
Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE98 1YX
Telephone 0845 6001405.
I have copied this note to Paul, and to Dave Higenbottam and to Bob Avery — all of whom have knowledge of the subject - in case they have later information. Good luck in getting your just desserts! All the best.Reg
Paul Barnard adds: Hi all, When I eventually tracked down Longbenton as the contact point I found them very helpful. If they are no longer the contact point then at least they should know who is!
3 September 2011 – From Roy Arscott
Hi Reg, I confess that I don't go into the HMSOldies site all that often but I've just had a scroll through and my eye lighted on the communication from Judy Pritchard way back in April. Judy Pritchard - 60? I don't believe it! My mind was immediately taken back 25 years to the time of the HMSO Bicentenary when amongst all the razzmatazz that was going on the Sovereign Singers were privileged to perform a grand choral and orchestral celebratory concert in the church of St Peter Mancroft on the 26th April 1986. The president of the singers at that time was Ken Allen and during the preparation for that and other concerts I had much contact with Judy whose husband, Mike, played in the orchestra for the concert. What a charming and helpful young lady! I'm attaching a photo to this email taken at the Bicentenary lunch with Judy and another young lady who, I confess, I do not remember.
Somewhat belatedly I can only offer Judy a very happy retirement and if she gets totally fed up with living in Little America (aka Great Britain) a move to France could be just the answer! Very best wishes, Roy Arscott
Judy Pritchard adds: Hi Reg. I'm blushing at the kind remarks. The photo was taken (in St Andrew's Hall) after I'd left HMSO, but I did make one or two return visits, notably when there was free food and drink. I was indeed a Sovereign Singer for a while, and I do remember singing in a concert at St Peter Mancroft church early on in my HMSO days but I think that was before Roy took over as conductor. We used to go across to Doughty's Hospital and entertain the residents (whether they wanted entertaining or not) and of course led the singing at the office carol service at the Baptist church in Duke Street. Ironically it was Ken Allen who put paid to that little pastime, because lunchtimes were off the radar whilst I worked for him, though the PAs usually managed to uncork a bottle or two surplus to official requirements when we provided the glamour and entertainment at buffet lunches for visiting bigwigs. I think Roy also conducted the North Walsham Choral Society and I remember Mike accompanying them in a concert in North Walsham church, maybe playing something from Schubert's 'Rosamunde'? I would have just been there as his roadie or to help swell numbers in the audience.
3 September 2011 – From Barry Palmer
Hi ya'll, we got back three weeks ago and as is usual had to get the van extensively repaired. We left home and went North West to Elliot Lake (that's where they used to mine Uranium) to visit an old friend. We managed to break the switch on the front power jack but a nice man from the next site showed us how to work it with a screwdriver. We left the next day for Sault Ste Marie at the Eastern end of Lake Superior and crossed over into the U.S. of A. Took about an hour to get through the border crossing. We then crossed the bottom of Lake Superior and kept going west till we got to a KOA (Kampgrounds Of America) just above Yellowstone Park where we spent the night and left the trailer and then drove into the park the next day to see "Old Faithful", probably the most famous Geyser in the world and he squirts his load about every hour.
Then we headed north (picked up the trailer on the way) and then north west to meet up with my son at Grande Prairie, northern Alberta. He seems to like it especially now that his lady friend "Jen" has joined him with her eldest son (13 years old). He is driving big tanker trucks hauling oil from the oil well sites and sometimes other loads when the oil can't be moved due to muddy conditions on the roads. Had to put two new tires on the front of the van. Together with Simon and Jen (we left the trailer in Grande Prairie) we headed south then west through the Banff National Park and through the Rockies to British Columbia. We all stayed with Jen's Grandmother in Trail, British Columbia for several days and during this time Bonnie and I went down into Washington State just so that we could say that we had been there. We left Trail (Bonnie and I) and drove up the Okanagan Valley, which is one of the biggest fruit growing areas in Canada and also all kinds of lakes and beaches.
We stopped in Banff National Park this time so that we could climb up to the glacier and also to visit a railway museum before heading back to Grande Prairie. Then we headed back south the next day. Got as far as Red Deer where we had to get 2 new springs put on the trailer as one of them snapped. One idiot told us it would be a week before he could fix it so we went to another shop and the owner said he couldn't fix it but he phoned around and found someone who could, and located two springs, so we went and picked them up after dropping the trailer off. We were told it would be the end of the next day before it would be ready (beggars can't be choosers so we said OK but were a bit upset because Bonnie had to get back for work) so we went and got the springs and by the time we got back the trailer was in the shop and the wheels were off. They said it would be ready before noon next day and true to their word it was ready to go with 2 new springs and new bushings in the other two springs, all new nuts and bolts on all four springs and they even fixed the switch on the front Jack.
After Red Deer we headed south and then east through Saskatchewan (stayed one night in a wilderness hotel) and down to Chicago where we spent another night in a motel and then on to the Detroit/Windsor crossing to get back into Canada and drove all day to get back to Ajax on Sunday so Bonnie could get to work on time. Our total mileage was somewhere about 17,000 miles.
Took the van in to the shop and they had to replace all the ball joints, two control arms and redo the front brakes (luckily the brakes were still under warranty) and do a complete lube and service. Two weeks later the five of us went east to Cobourg (Friday to Monday) because we hadn't camped together this year at all. Guess that's all for now, hope your summer is less eventful than ours and hope you had a great time on your vacations. Barry, Bonnie and family.
Hello Barry, Good to hear that you are still enjoying the wide open spaces. We have just had a week in Bath (a couple of hundred miles away and enough travelling for me). Coincidentally, I was in London yesterday — walked past Cornwall House and was no more than a minute away from the old SSPP. All very gentrified now: nice terraced house, straight onto the pavement, going for £850,000 on Whittlesea Street. All the best. Reg
1 Sept 2011 – Susan Curran: Book Reading for Charity
Dear all, On Sunday 11 September I'll be reading from my book The English Friend at St Peter Hungate (Princes Street, Norwich) at 3 pm, as part of the Heritage Open Day event, in aid of the Norwich Historic Churches Trust (a heritage, not religious, charity that maintains and finds uses for most of the city's redundant medieval churches). (Attendance is free, but we'll be taking a collection.) I'll be donating £5 per copy of the book sold to the Trust, and I'll also donate £5 on paperbacks and £2 on electronic copies (only £3.99, recommended for owners of Kindles, iPads and similar) on sales through our website (www.theenglishfriend.com) that mention the Trust. (Add to the comments section when ordering.) [View Poster]. Please do pass on this information to anyone you know who might be interested. Many thanks. Best wishes, Susan Curran.
8 August 2011 - Susan Curran's new book
Dear friends and colleagues. My new book The English Friend i s published this week. It's an illustrated biography of the first duke of Suffolk (1396-1450), written for a general audience, and of particular interest, I hope, to medievalists, those interested in relations between England and France, lovers of stained glass (there are lots of details among the illustrations), peace campaigners, and others who enjoy a good life story.
It's published in paperback and in very reasonably priced PDF editions designed for Kindles, iPads and other tablets, and computer screens. If you, or anyone you know, would be interested, please do look at, and/or pass on details of, our website (which is now fully functioning and ready to take orders). It's on www.theenglishfriend.com.
All best, Susan Curran
1 August 2011 – From Margery Kraszewski
Bonjour Reg, Thank you for letting us know about the reunion and if we were in the UK we would make an effort to attend, this is highly unlikely though, the only times that we are there seems to be to attend the funerals of our ageing families! Thank goodness for 'Ryanair'. According to the weather forecast I have just seen on the MSN page a heat wave is on the way to you. We also had a couple of cool, dreary weeks but things are back to normal now and we are enjoying lazing about in the garden.Margery and John
Hello Margery and John, Good to hear that you are returning to Continental Weather. Sun is out as I write so I will see what the allotment has to offer. Sore back and ants nests, usually. We will raise a glass to you on the 17th. All the best. Reg
30 July 2011 – Gill Clegg (as was) writes
Hi Reg, don't know if you remember me but I certainly remember you! I worked in Publications, HR, and Supply and was married to both Don Dunkin (PP) and Bryan Clegg (Finance) both of whom also worked at HMSO. started at HMSO Sovereign House straight from school at the tender age of 16, from there we went to Norvic House. After having the children I came back to work at St Crispins, and took VER back in the early nineties.
I moved back to Norwich last summer (after living in West Midlands for six years) and I am currently working as Assistant Accountant at Angling Direct in Norwich, living in Hellesdon. The children have grown and I now have seven grandchildren. I keep fit by doing modern jive (Ceroc) and sometimes bump into Renate (and Dave James) there. I would love to meet up with other "oldies" if anyone remembers me. Best wishes, Gill
Hello Gill, Good to hear from you after all this time! Of course I remember you ― and welcome back to Norwich after your travels. You have one more child and five more grandchildren than I have managed so far. You may have read that we are having another unorganised reunion at The Eagle, Newmarket Road at lunchtime on Wednesday 17 August. If you are able to come along you might meet some old colleagues. All the best, Reg
22 July 2011 – From Pat Tate
Hi Reg, During a recent house clearance I found some very old copies of The Highway Code , earliest about 1935. I was going to put them onto the huge pile of rubbish when I thought someone might be interested and I immediately thought if anyone knows who, it would be you. I can easily put them in the bin if you think no one would be interested.
All the best, Pat
Hello Pat, Good to hear from you. I am sure that you have a job on your hands, with house clearance. I don't envy anyone who has to clear my piles of 'useful stuff.' As you say, someone is bound to be interested. Hope to see you at The Eagle in August when we can catch up. All the best. Reg
That HMSOldies reunion some people keep asking for . . .
( . . . but don't seem to attend when one is organised . . . )
Hard to believe that the HMSOldies website has been going for seven years today (15 July 2011). Even harder to believe that people still want to be reminded of The Old Days.
We have been in contact with David Silver, who is busy returning to the UK for a few weeks via Serbia, where he is at the moment. As he is keen to see old friends, we have arranged an informal HMSOldies meeting at The Eagle, Newmarket Road, Norwich (we are well known there) at lunchtime, Wednesday 17 August 2011. All welcome ― whether you knew David or not: there should be several other blasts from the past there.
STOP PRESS! Mike Gigg has promised to attend.
11 July 2011 – Billy Stevenson writes from Belfast . . .
Dear Reg, In the national vocabulary one of the most used words is Old as in Oldie. We have old habits. Old ways, old days. The list is endless. For me its use at the Cenotaph in Whitehall is the one that strikes us, of an age. 'They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old . . . '
Some time ago I visited a cemetery situated south of the border. It was old and overgrown, but amid the tall grass and dandelions in a far corner was a neat little plot, shaded by a plain grey stone. On that stone was a simple inscription. The stone is similar to thousands scattered across the world. This is the grave of a British Soldier. The inscription on the gravestone read:
Thomas Hughes VC
For Valour
(Above the name, the badge of The Connaught Rangers).
'The VC Hughes' as he became known to his friends survived the war. Not many of his comrades did. The citation can be found in the archives of The London Gazette Britain’s oldest newspaper, older than The News of the World, older than Rupert Murdoch and published by HMSO. This year at the eleventh hour, on the 11/11/11 he will again be remembered together with the millions who died in the Great War.
Yours sincerely, Billy
10 July 2011 – Hospital Corners
The following note has been received from under the covers of a bed in the corner of Alder Ward, Bay 11, NCH Bowthorpe Road, Norwich. I am sure that visitors bearing grapes and old copies of the News of the World would be welcome:
'Do you remember a Philip Storey, retired in 1987 I believe? Well, I am sharing a billet with him in the Norfolk Community Hospital and have been for the past 2 weeks. We have both spent the previous 2 months at the N&N. We have been down memory lane a few times since our incarceration here. Phil is due for release on Wednesday 13 July but I have another month to do. All the best. Mal Loveridge.'
13 July? Too late for the Apprentice Boys' March. He'll have to put his flute away for another year 'He was old but he was beautiful . . . ' Well, nearly right: he must be old enough to remember 1690.
7 July 2011 – From Kim Ives (was Craske)
Hi there Reg, You won't remember me (unless you remember blindfolding me at The Bystanders Club for some on stage prank at the Supply Division Review ― back in the days of Norma Groom and Dick Moore! In later years I worked for Paul Simmonds and then escaped back in '99).However, I thought you may be interested in this web link http://www.derelictplaces.
co.uk/main/showthread.php?t=13517 which I came across recently. I thought some of the other oldies might be interested in the sad demise of Sovereign House. Regards, Kim
Hello Kim, Of course I remember you. I remember all the girls I blindfold . . . Coincidentally, that Bystanders Review was recalled recently when I was talking to Dick Moore, who celebrated a Significant Birthday last month. Norma occasionally corresponds from South Africa, and I see Paul on occasions. Hope you are doing well: I'll look on your Plug Studios website to see what you are up to. Meanwhile, the website you refer to is both interesting and sad. I have seen most of the pictures before, but we will add the reference to HMSOldies so that people can pick out their old desk and chair. And isn't that Don Warman's Intray I see scattered on the floor? All the best, Reg
5 July 2011 – Young Musician's Concert 2011
Ivor Hosgood writes: Dear Music-lovers, The trustees of the Norfolk Youth Music Trust are delighted to announce details of the second of two concerts featuring up-and-coming young musicians. This will be on Sunday 24 July 2011 at the United Reformed Church, Princes Street, Norwich, at 3.00 p.m. (Doors open at 2.30 p.m.) Appearing are DANIELLA BECK (Soprano) with Jonathan Wortley (Piano) JOONG-HA PARK (Piano) and SOHYUN PARK (Piano). This event is part of the County Council's Open Weekend project and is supported by the Norfolk 2012 Open Weekend Grant Fund.
Thurs 23 June 2011 – Government plans to scrap COI
See: http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/jun/23/government-confirms-it-is-to-scap-coi?INTCMP=SRCH
20 June 2011 – From Mark Bennett
Dear Pat, Thank you so much for the offer of the briefcase, I am sure it will look splendid against a desk! I can use the paperwork to make up replicas and bulk stock. We are in the middle of moving so things are mad here, but our email address will stay the same. Kind regards, Mark.
20 June 2011 – From Pat Kennedy
Hi Reg, Nice to hear from you and my apologies for not being in contact over the past year – I've been too busy completing and publishing my late wife Sheila's Butler Family History (156pp A4) and otherwise enjoying life on cycling holidays, while I'm still fit and enable enough to do so. At first I thought that your message was asking me for my annual retirement report – I'll get around to producing that as soon as I can.
I vaguely remember requests to provide some items from HMSO's range of stock items over twenty years ago, but can't now recall the details – possibly the task was delegated to a member of staff. Some of the occasional requests for HMSO stock items were received from TV drama producers, to add authenticity to the scenes.
I didn't believe that I had retained any item of HMSO nostalgia, but spurred on by your reference to 'items accidentally finding their way into briefcases', I have searched my garage archives and came across a post-1953 plastic briefcase, resplendent with the Crown EIIR motif still visible – I recall frequently using the briefcase to bring home piles of papers and files that had to be read before the next day's work started. In the late 1970s I was the higher technical officer in charge of the binding section (S8) that included responsibility for the procurement of public service briefcases, with many samples for examination passing through the section.
The HMSO stock briefcase was never considered popular and some civil servants never liked being identified as such, while carrying a case with the EIIR motif emblazoned in gold leaf on the flap. We eased the problem by placing the embossed motif on the case, covered up by the flap.
Stan Munns and I were then asked by Supply Division to investigate the possibility of producing an improved version of a public service briefcase. We appointed Bernard Sams, an industrial designer, to come up with a prototype and after several months of regular discussions and meetings with him, his prototype briefcase finally emerged in about 1978. By then however, Supply Division was tightening its belt and the project was shelved, on cost grounds, in favour of purchasing commercially produced briefcases, as and when deemed necessary. Meanwhile the civil servants who had a craving for a briefcase to look more important, had bought their own commercial versions or had received from a loved one a nice shiny leather briefcase for Christmas.
In closing this 'brief briefcase history' – I found inside the sample briefcase a few sheets of Foolscap folio (13 x 8 inches) carbon paper (Code No.2-224) and A5 sheets (210mm x 148mm) carbon paper (Code No.2-225), together with 'Important points to note when using typewriter carbon paper'. I still have my old second-hand Imperial typewriter (bought for £15 in Norwich in c1970) - it's wrapped up and stored in my garage archives).
If you can let me have a postal address I can send the above briefcase and contents, with my compliments.
Best wishes, Pat Kennedy
Hello Pat, Excellent to hear from you. I invoke your name when I saw Alan Pawsey today, and there you are on my computer screen. The wonders of technology: Windows even does thought transference these days. Good to hear that you have been active, but then when were you not? The mention of those old stock code numbers will be giving some people goose-pimples (or is that only KJ Coleman?). All the best, and keep St Albans tidy . . . Reg
15 June 2011 – From Mark Bennett
Dear Reg, Thank you for your prompt reply. This is most interesting. I work often with English Heritage on 'Cold War' related items (but have recently been working on WWII and Dunkirk!) and think I know where all the items that you mention Pat 'heaping' onto someone currently are! I know these items very well as I was asked to catalogue them in the stores at Dover Castle and there they still are! In great quantity too. I am very jealous of this 'stash' and have pawed over it quite a few times now - some lovely items there. EH keep these in reserve as reference items and for displays when suitable – we used some for the Dunkirk Exhibition I believe.
I work as a volunteer (sometimes a consultant too) with English Heritage at Dover Castle (WWII and Cold War), the ROC Group HQ at Acomb, York (Cold War) and numerous other Cold War sites ('holes') such as Craggibarns in Dundee and Kelvendon Hatch. Our aim is to research sites and recreate them 'as they were' and in the process learn way more than we ever would from books or just 'the internet'. This involves actively researching these structures in great detail - I am working at the PRO (Kew) at the moment on the RSG at Dover Castle in the DUMPY level of the tunnels. In the process of my activities I often have to comment and consult on 'set dressing' and artefacts (for example, I surveyed the 50,000+ artefacts at the Central Government War HQ for EH and the MOD – that was a gold mine of 1960's HMSO material and still is!) and then often make up copies of documents – I do like to be as authentic as humanly possible! Hence my request to you for any HMSO items. Hope that makes it a little clearer.
We have an empty cupboard in a Sub-Regional Seat of Government (SRHQ) that we are currently trying to 'fill' so ideally these would be of HMSO origin c1960-80's – mostly 70-80's though so the three items you have kindly offered are ideal! I guess, in order to be specific we would really like to find some items in bulk – reams of paper, pencils, rulers etc etc – anything one might find in a Government Office of the period.
Many thanks for getting back to me. Kind regards, Mark
Hello Mark, Well I'm damned – what a small world! Sounds a most interesting job. We will add your further details to HMSOldies and see if anything emerges. If you let me have an address – not for publication – I will send you the three books. If there is a London location people might even be able to drop items in – if indeed they still have stuff that 'accidentally' found their way into their briefcases! All the best. Reg
15 June 2011 – From Mark Bennett
Dear Reg, I am contacting you in the hope that you might be able to help us. We are a group of like minded people restoring an old Government Cold War site and most specifically seek to display a range of HMSO stationery items and with this in mind we have been able to locate a small number of examples which we are currently replicating as reproductions. Notebooks, pads, paper and the like. Might you, or a contact, be able to help us at all? We are seeking to locate A4 Notepads to replicate documentation (supervisor's Diaries) but also seek any HMSO stationery items. Kind regards, Mark
Hello Mark, I have arranged for your note to be added to HMSOldies to see if anyone can help. It might be useful if you could add a little detail regarding your organisation. Over 20 years ago, when I was working at HMSO, an ex employee contacted me along the same lines. He was equipping an installation in Dover, and Pat Kennedy heaped items on him. He went away very happy, but things were easier then as we worked with the stuff all around us! I will send you a separate note regarding a couple of items I have to hand. All the best. Reg
The Future of HMSO – 1980 Verdict
Dear Reg, While trawling through my archive in the attic, I discovered the following; an article from the Daily Mail (Wed 22 Oct 1980). Regards to yourself and the team, Billy Stevenson.
Writing off those Ministry Losses
By Harvey Elliott
The writing is on the wall for the Stationery Office monopoly of printing Government “BUMF”. If plans before the Cabinet get the go-ahead, individual Ministries will be allowed to put their printing jobs out to tender. That could mean private firms getting a major part of the £24 million-a-year business. The Stationery Office - which publishes over 8,000 new titles annually - has pleaded for a two year breathing space after the rules are changed. Officials say this is essential to build up new business and offset losses they are bound to suffer. They fear they will lose their ‘glossy’ publications and be left with unprofitable circulars.
Drastic
But senior Ministers, pledged to cut down on spending and to allow private firms in are almost certain to go ahead with their own cost-cutting soon. Already the way the HMSO is paid has been drastically altered. Until April it received a Government allocated budget. But now it is expected to pay its own way and raise the money by charging individual Departments for the work it carries out. The new plans are part of a general clamp-down by the Government. Ministries have been ordered to cut the amount of printed material they produce, and to use lower grade paper whenever possible.
HMSO’s Response: (INFORMATION CIRCULAR No. 61/80), 24 October 1980
The Future of HMSO
Many members of staff will have seen an article about HMSO in Wednesday’s edition of the Daily Mail. Controller has written to the editor refuting the allegation made in the article that HMSO’s future was in doubt. A copy of the Controller’s letter is reproduced below. Controller was also interviewed for the BBC’s Radio Norfolk’s lunchtime news bulletin during which he expressed his confidence in HMSO’s future.
“The Editor, Daily Mail
Dear Sir,
I saw no writing on the wall of HMSO this morning in spite of the suggestion to the contrary by your Home Affairs Correspondent.
The job of HMSO is to save public money through procurement and production undertaken in the most economical way using 200 years of expertise and a massive concentration of purchasing power. This we do to the extent of many millions of pounds annually. We operate on a commercial basis and justify our existence accordingly.
HMSO is, quite rightly, under constant Ministerial scrutiny and as a Government department, we respond to Government direction. But, after looking at our walls and a number of others, I saw nothing to suggest that HMSO was on its way out.
Yours faithfully”
Hello Billy, Good to hear from you. I had forgotten this one. Seems an age ago..............but, then, I suppose it was. All the best- and keep burrowing in the archives! Reg
10 June 2011 – from Stuart McLaren
Dear Reg, I was sufficiently intrigued by Howard Wheeldon's discovery of the names of Stationery Office staff in 1805 to look up the Comptroller at that time in Barty-King's official history of HMSO. George Dickins was appointed Comptroller in 1802, a post he held for more than 20 years. In 1812 he moved his staff from New Palace Yard to New Scotland Yard where, according to Barty-King "The Comptroller's control over his staff became lax, and Dickins himself soon succumbed to tempting offers which became more rewarding with every new responsibility." He died of an apoplexy in 1822 brought on by the rather too rigorous questioning of a Select Committee investigating his shady dealings.
Incidentally, I was surprised not to find a mention in the IC of the Norwich Evening News article published on 15 April, see http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/architect_defends_reviled_norwich_
building_1_866220 , in which a Norwich-based architect, Anthony Hudson, calls for the preservation of Sovereign House as a masterpiece of Modernist Brutalism. Who would have thought the old place would have aroused such strong emotions. Best wishes, Stuart McLaren
Hello Stuart. Good to hear from you, and thank you for your most interesting research. I can imagine poor old Dickins being taken down to the fleshpots of Villiers Street by unscrupulous purveyors of pounce, oxgall and printers' marbles.
I sent references to the NEN article to a few people who I considered to have strong vascular systems,but thought that it might cause an outbreak of hysteria so declined to add it to HMSOldies. However, now that they intend to recreate Centralised Procurement, I think that the floodgates should be opened. Nurse, the screens! All the best. Reg
7 June 2011 – Howard Wheeldon Turns Back The Pages
Apropos of nothing . . I was recently browsing through 'The Royal Kalendar' (sic) for 1805 and came across the following entry for 'The Stationery Office'
Comptroller; Geo. Dickins, esq
First Clerk; John Price
Second Clerk; Morgan Thomas
Other Clerks; Charles Hayes, Henry Gardner
Cash Department
Cashier; Thomas Peregrine Courtenay (bet he didn’t take sandwiches in for lunch . . .)
First Clerk; John Tull
Second Clerk; John Matheson
Store Department
Storekeeper; John Burden, esq
First Clerk; Francis Jullion
Other Clerks; George Sherlock, Charles Colston, George Kent, Thomas Gardner, A.M. Belisario
First Warehouseman; Shepherd Hunt
Other Warehousemen; Henry Routh, Samuel King, John Cook, Henry Sharpe
Assistant Warehouseman; Thomas Atwell
Other Clerks; William Galliers, James Collier, James James (!)
Parchment Sorter; (now there's a job after your own heart, Reg!) John Phillips
Messenger; Samuel Alder . . . and a Housekeeper . . . Catherine Clarke (early sign of PC, or merely a buxom forty-something mother hen who made the tea?)
NB: Distinct absence of Accountants, HR, IT/Abacus Wallahs etc.
No doubt the Government's 'blue sky deliberations' which have identified the need for a disinterred central purchasing organisation will be somewhat more costly and certainly more complex . . . Regards. Howard
Hello Howard. What a fine list! And such wonderful names and job titles. Who could resist promoting a man to First Warehouseman if it meant that you could shout 'Shepherd Hunt!' when you needed more vellum? And the Storekeeper favoured singly as an 'Esquire'. AM Belisario allowed the honour of initials only. And a special washroom for Ms Clarke.
Speaking of the Government's plans for a new central procurement 'initiative', the mass mailing I sent out to ex HMSO people elicited 37, and counting, harrumphs, including one from exiles in France, one from Ivor Hosgood, who referred readers to 'Yes Minister' Volume 3 Episode 4 —'A Question of Loyalty', and one from Tim Riley 'who cried until he laughed.' By the way, Alan Pawsey —who worked with you 100 years ago — asked me to pass on his regards.
Perhaps we could take a lead from those fine ladies who took such exception to a throwaway remark that they dressed up (down?) and organised a 'Slutwalk.' But I suppose that 'ex Civil Servants against endless tampering with central procurement procedures walk' lacks a little something. . . .
All the best . . . I'm off to retrain as a Parchment Sorter. Reg
1 June 2011 – From Bill Greenaway
Hi Reg, Just a note to let you know that Sid Brooks, Leon deBrunner, Gavin Turner and myself had our reunion lunch at the Civil Service Club in Whitehall last week. A splendid do it was too and all down to you and HMSOldies website managing to put us all together again. Thank you very much Reg, you really are doing a grand job. It was marvellous to meet up again and hear all their news. Sid reckoned it was some 25 years since our last meeting which was a complete shock to me. The old tempus does fugit , much too quickly. Sid, who is about to enter the naughtie nineties was ever so sprightly, despite almost being drowned by a cloudburst just before reaching the Club. I think he believes in the old Rolling Stone adage about not staying still. It certainly works for him. Silver Fox Leon could well have been sitting in the High Court such was the splendour of his attire. I am afraid I let the side down a bit by turning up in "smart" casual. Suffice to say the others were sartorial elegance personified. Gavin managed to get a couple of pictures taken on his mobile and he will be passing them on to you; the technology is beyond me. We shall be trying a repeat performance round about Sid's birthday all being well. I shall keep you up to date.
Hope you have got your season ticket for the Canaries next season, should be good. I had the great pleasure of commiserating with an ex-colleague of mine last week who just happens to be fond of Tractors! All the best and have a good summer, Bill
Hello Bill, Many thanks for your note. Good to hear that the 'Stationeryofficers Reunited' aspect is working well, and that the old PDPT/MDC management team is still battling in there. Also good to see that you are keeping up your retinue of exotic contacts ― Ipswich supporters is it? I'll alert Rod Durkin (one of the Norwich Season Ticket Holders). All the best to you for the rest of 2011 and beyond. Reg
8 May 2011 – Top Scout
The Norwich Evening News dated 8 May 2011 carried the following article:
'The Scouting UK Chief Commissioner awarded a Norwich resident with the second highest scouting award, on a visit to Norfolk at the weekend. Wayne Bullpitt awarded the bar to Silver Acorn to Peter Staples, (see Picture Gallery) of Saint Philips Road, Norwich, for 'specially distinguished service to the Scout Movement over many years.'
Peter was (almost) lost for words!
3 May 2011 – From Marguerite Finn
Dear Reg, I am writing to tell you about an important event which the Norwich & District Branch of the United Nations Association are hosting at the Curve, in the Forum. The British Ambassador to Japan, David Warren, is coming to give a talk in the Curve on Saturday 14 May at 12.00 noon. He will talk about his role as Ambassador and what his job entails especially now in the wake of the massive earthquake and tsunami. This is a great opportunity to hear at first hand how things are in Japan at present and how the diplomatic service works. Coffee and tea will be served from 11.30 onwards. Admission is Free. Please do try and come if you can. It should be very interesting. Marguerite Finn - Vice-Chair UNA (Norwich & District)
25 April 2011 – From Judy Pritchard
Since leaving HMSO in 1986, my sole long-term goal has been to live long enough to get my hands on my Civil Service Pension, and ― whahay! ― today's the day, although, with typical ill-fortune, my 60th birthday has landed on a Bank Holiday so I have to wait until tomorrow to spend it, and then, because some politician decided to move the goalposts, have to wait another 13 months for my State pension to supplement it.
Over the past few years I have wistfully followed the fortunes of retired ex-colleagues via the HMSOldies website (which for some reason seems to closely overlap with another, smoke-filled website).
It's unlikely that many Oldies will remember me, because for much of my working life I was more of a monkey than an organ-grinder, working as PA/Secretary/general factotum to the likes of George Furn, Archie Foote, Dickie Dunn, Ralph Chisholm, Bill Sharp and Ken Allen. They were happy days. I'm still in contact with friends made at HMSO ― Dorothy Sellar, Barbara Robbins, Anita Borrett, Jo Flint, George Furn and George Rokahr and Audrey Lebourg. The latter name will not ring a bell with anyone ― but she was a young French secretarial student who came on a placement with HMSO in the early 80s and, after one or two false starts in offices elsewhere along the corridors of power, ended up with me, working for George Furn for a while. A joyous time, when at a guess I would say that work output was halved rather than doubled by having the two of us there (but I later more than made up for it working for Ken Allen, when I frequently worked 12-hour days in the office and then fielded messages and letters dictated over the phone at all hours of the day and night!).
You will possibly remember me more for the fact that I married a former member of the illustrious Bystanders' Society, Mike Pritchard, who, sad to say, is no longer with us. Keep up the good work with the website! Kind regards, Judy Pritchard
Hello Judy, Excellent to hear from you, but first of all: Happy Birthday! It was my 65th last month, so I know what you mean about achieving goals. Never thought of you as a 'monkey' in any aspect ― and you have outlived all but two of your 'organ grinders' (George and Dickie are still in good form, as you will know). As you suggest, I can't place Audrey Lebourg but occasionally see the others you mention in Norwich. And your mention of Mike immediately brought back memories of 5 Thorpe Road ― Music Halls ― Mike with his violin ― late night card schools with Ray Plunkett. Happy memories, and belated sincere condolences. I am sure that many will remember you ― bet it doesn't seem 39 years (on 8 May) since you joined. Best wishes, and get stuck into the Easter Birthday Cake. Reg
Rosemary Lynch writes . . . . .
Whilst browsing through the Information Circulars I saw the note from Judy (above). I remember Judy and would like to wish her (via HMSOldies) a very happy birthday and congratulate her on attaining her pension. Long may she draw it!
Regards, Rosemary
18 April 2011 – From Billy Stevenson
Dear Reg, Today inThe Times business pages is an article about the reopening of St Ermin's Hotel. In its time it was frequented by such figures as Winston Churchill, Guy Burgess, Anthony Blunt and Co, but not necessarily at the same time. Other hotels mentioned are the Corinthian, the Savoy and the Dorchester. No doubt these names will be familiar to my former fellow SOGAT members in the days of moonlighting in Fleet Street ie those who indulged in tax avoidance and signed the Register of Employees as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. Did Sir Philip Green ever work for HMSO?
Anyway this got me thinking about the London Hotels I stayed in, and unlike my colleagues Messrs Mouse and Duck I couldn’t afford the Savoy so my favourite stopping off place turned out to be the Regent Palace at Piccadilly Circus. Now although it doesn’t get a mention in The Times business piece It was a great hotel and I came to love it. It had everything going for it. It was central, next door to Soho, within range of good bookshops, theatres, cinemas, reasonably priced restaurants. It was beside Piccadilly Tube Station which meant that you could land at Heathrow and within an hour travel by Tube, alight at Piccadilly Circus walk a few yards to the hotel, register, park your luggage in your room and you were ready for bottle or draught. Some things in life you learn the hard way. So it was with my introduction to hotel bars.
On my first visit to the Regent Palace, after dealing with the preliminaries, I proceeded to quench my thirst. I ordered a bottle of a well known German beer, proffered a five pound note and got two-fifty change. That took care of a fair percentage of my spending money for the trip. However I soon rectified the situation. I nipped out, down into the Tube station with my Concessionary three-day travel-card, got a Bakerloo north bound train to Oxford Circus. Nipped across to Selfridge's, into the Food Hall and purchased a six-pack of the same German beer for a little more than the single bottle had cost. My cuisine for the three days apart from the excellent breakfast provided by the hotel consisted of the Selfridge's beer and Marks and Spencer sandwiches.
I must mention the purpose of my visit was to attend a meeting at Trafalgar Square with Bob Gillespie (SOGAT Area Representative for Scotland and NI). I was the FOC in the Belfast Bookshop at the time. We were meeting Alex Mackie and Brian Minett representing HMSO. While I’ve forgotten the purpose of the meeting I remember that Bob Gillespie, like Huckleberry Finn, could swear wonderfully. Alas the Regent Palace is no longer. I understand it closed a couple or so years ago, but I’m sure it will be remembered fondly by the many that stayed there. Yours truly, Billy
Hello Billy, A fine reminiscence — thank you. I also stayed in the Regent Palace and can confirm what you say, but usually it was the Strand Palace with easy access to the bars of Fleet Street and a brisk walk over Waterloo Bridge to that jewel of HMSO premises, Cornwall House. My London meetings with SOGAT were in Golden Cross House. Peggy Drake and Ms Brazil —Ted Chard — several others. Favourite Belfast rooms were upstairs in The Kitchen Bar. Mrs Catney's breakfast would last you all day. If you missed it Pat would serve you Paddy's Pizza in the bar. Happy times — some of them! All the best. Reg
2 April 2011 – From Billy Stevenson
Dear Reg, While browsing the Memories section of the website I was amazed to learn that Bob Barnard moved in the same circles as Ronnie Kray and Jack “The Hat” McVitie.(1958: HMSO Bookshop, Edinburgh). This can’t have been our former Capo Di Tuttie Capi in HMSO NI? How many other Oldies drank in The Blind Beggar? Happy Easter to all in the Command Module. Billy.
Hello Billy, I had almost forgotten this picture — and hope that RCB will forgive the 'poetic license' I took with his photo. But in answer to your question: I know that the late Dave Ware (Works Overseer at Hansard; later Industrial Personnel) was, as he recalled to me when we passed the pub in a taxi one night, 'a long-haired rock guitarist who had a gig at The Blind Beggar and I was just setting up when a big bloke came in the door, walked over to my amp and pulled out the plug with the words 'no ******* music.' I reckon I saved myself a beating that night by packing up and leaving — later I found out it was Ronnie Kray.'
Happy days, but I still prefer The Kitchen Bar and Pat Catney. A Happy Easter to you and yours. Reg
Gavin Turner on the podium
Gavin maintains his practical interest in choral music, and has alerted us to a performance by the William Byrd Choir (which he directs) at 6pm on Saturday 14 May 2011, at the Chapel of Reconciliation, Roman Catholic National Shrine, Houghton St Giles near Walsingham, Norfolk. Tickets are £10 and full details can be found on the flyer mentioned below. He has written as follows:
'I don't flatter myself that more than a handful of the Old Boys who live in Norfolk would be interested, but if you feel disposed to push out this e-flyer, I would be grateful. It is a PDF file so anyone should be able to read it on their email. Apparently the Chapel only holds 350, so early booking is advised, with all those pilgrims washing around in Walsingham!'
23 March 2011 – From Norma Groom
Hi Reg, An email from South Africa — hope everybody is well. We get some news from Peter Macdonald but would love to hear from you how all the Oldies are. Renate and David James have been here during March. Weather here is still lovely and has not been below 25 degrees for weeks now, so we are desperate for rain. Cheers, Norma
Hello Norma, Good to hear from you, and glad to read that you are still entertaining visitors from the shivering Northern hemisphere (although the weather has cheered up this week). We will copy to HMSOldies and see if anyone has any news. Have a look at 'What's New' and you will see what you have been missing. There are also some photos so you will be able to see how we are ageing gracefully. If you want to find out about anybody in particular, let me know and I will tell you all I know (unless they have taken out a Super Injunction). We will do a little rain dance for you as long as you send over some sun. The early potatoes need it. All the best, Reg
Norman Douglas Parker 1914-2011
John Eason has received a letter from Justin Parker with the sad news that his father, Norman, has died, on 25 March 2011, at the age of 96. He joined HMSO London in 1950, working as an EO in Establishments, and moved to Supplies (S4) and subsequently RS2 (Norwich). He retired in 1975 and moved to Harston, in Cambridgeshire.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised. The Daily Telegraph will carry an announcement.
14 March 2011 – From Ernie Downs
Reg, This is a blast from the past and no mistake. If I remember correctly the "Gateshead Bulletin" was the idea of F. A. G. "Fred" Lonon. It was intended to be a house magazine with information on the happenings in the press, allied to the doings of the staff in official and unofficial matters. The editor was, at the outset, George Ogle — an overseer in the composing department. It was later taken over by Ian Tew, who later moved to the Publications Centre at Nine Elms.
I am surprised that neither John Fox nor his mother have not seen a copy of the bulletin before, it was circulated to all the staff, if I remember correctly. Jean Fox worked in the warehouse overseers office so she must have seen a copy. A similar enquiry to Andy Baptie, Ted Ashton and Alan McGillewie might bring forth more information.
I do not have any copies of the Bulletin I'm afraid when I left Gateshead I tended to have a clear out and those were some of the items that went, another "if only" action. If you have recourse to these copies I would like to see them, if only in electronic form. Another trip down memory lane. Ernie
Ernie, My word, you are quick off the ball and now we'll see who else responds. Meanwhile I have also copied to Andy and John Fox. I don't have email details for the others you mention. All the best, and thank you. Reg
13 March 2011 - From John Fox
Hi Reg, It was good to see you when we bumped into each other a few weeks ago. Hope you got over your cold OK. My Mum, Jean Fox, who also worked at Gateshead Press, from about 1969 till a few years after it was sold, has a query. One of our old workmates has loaned her a couple of copies of the "Gateshead Bulletin", from 1978, which appears to be the local equivalent of the IC & all about the Press. It seems to be a quarterly as these copies, numbers 27 & 28, are dated April & July respectively. The problem is, neither she nor I have ever seen this magazine before, and we are puzzled about when it was produced, who it circulated around, etc. Content includes opening of a new loading bay, pay rate changes, pictures of staff, and Ernie Downs presenting an award to an apprentice. Does anyone have any info about this publication, or old copies to hand? We would be most interested. Best regards, John Fox
Hello John, Good to hear from you — and yes, thank you, the cold is better. Currently successfully avoiding the granddaughter's tonsillitis. I have copied your note to Ernie Downs and we'll to see if he, or any other HMSOldie, has copies of the Gateshead Bulletin which they may agree to copy and forward to your mother. You never know: we old Civil Servants are notorious hoarders! All the best — and to your mother. Reg
9 March 2011 – From Les Birch
Dear Reg, Your mention of Orsman Road in your exchange with Brian Blackmore brought back to me a whole flood of memories.The warehouses in Orsman Road and Gee St. were my fiefdom when I became their first Warehouse Manager in 1953 following the establishment of ITW Division (Inspection, Transport and Warehousing) which took over their running from the old Duplicating and Distribution Division. I was in fact the sole HMSO born and bred man amongst the new managers, the others (Barrett, Crisp, the new boss Pengelly, and ANOther whose name escapes me) being imported experts in warehousing from OGDs. Both depots were principally forms stores and the Warehouse Supervisor at Orsman Road was Bill (W.J.) Marshall, a larger than life character who had been commissioned in the field during the 1914-18 War (a somewhat dubious honour given the wholesale slaughter of 2nd. Lieutenants during that conflict). He had also performed at most of the inter-war London Music Halls and he took great pride in showing me a photo of himself in top-hat, white tie and tails. His favourite morning greeting was 'It is a pleasure to say good morning to a gentleman, SIR' - it never failed.
The Supervisor at Gee St. was a lovely man, Mark Antony Moore, who had joined HMSO shortly after the 1914-18 war and who regretted all his life having been instrumental in introducing the NUPBW (the forerunner of SOGAT) into HMSO. One of the most memorable incidents there was when we were visited by the Manager of an adjacent clothing manufacturers to complain that all production there stopped round about our lunch time when all their staff gathered to witness the amorous dallyings of one of our warehousemen and a Female Warehouse Assistant, the outline of which events they could see through our frosted glass. The culprits were easily identifiable but both denied everything, the FWA protesting that she was a 'good girl' whilst the chap declared himself a happily married man. After some discussion I told Mark to tell them that we believed their story but that they must make sure it never happened again - nor did it.
On a completely different note I was saddened today to receive a card from the daughters of Dorothy Shapcott, whom you may recall as my PA in Bristol, to say that she died on 21 January peacefully in her sleep. I don't know whether she ever knew exactly what to make of me particularly during the visits of the likes of Gregory and Rice from 3M, Briggy and co from AddMulti, Atkins from Olivetti and some of the more sociable HQ visitors who, to spare your blushes, will remain nameless.
I do not know when you transformed Orsman Road into a depository for recon. Gestetners but there would have been no room for them in my day - hard to believe that all started 58 years ago. Keep up the good work - and see you in October. Yours, Les
Hello Les, My word, you do have a wonderful memory. I have copied to others, including the aforementioned Bob Rice, lately Formara Printers and more lately 3M. I was with him in London three or so weeks ago and he is in fine form, living in Cambridgeshire. I was sorry to hear of the death of Dorothy Shapcott, who, as you say, must have had her eyes opened on occasions! My memories of Orsman Road were from the mid-1960s. Previously I had been in ITW, where the Director was the very Naval C Pengelly, the AD JL Wilkinson and the HEO W Jameson. My 1954 Staff List gives the ITW hierarchy as Messrs Ryder, Auty (replaced by Dawson), Pengelly, Halson and Causer. D&D was headed by CAJ Argent OBE supported by FT Hillman. That should be enough until October - all the best, and thanks again. Reg (and I wonder if 'the good girl' and 'the happily married man' might still be around to read this and recognise themselves?).
8 March 2011 - From Ivor Hosgood
Dear Reg, Many thanks for your excellent coverage of the The Norfolk Youth Music Trust's 2010 event. If you have space, you may wish to publish my 2011 programme, as follows:
Sunday 5 June at 2.30 pm. Young Musicians' Concert;
Sunday 3 July at 3.00 pm. From Berlioz to Broadway presented by The Upper Octave.
Sunday 24 July at 3.00 pm. Young Musicians' Concert - Part of Norfolk's Open Weekend, which is intended to be the county's celebration to mark the year's run-up to the Olympic Games London 2012.
Yours sincerely, Ivor
IVOR R.HOSGOOD MBE, Chairman-Secretary, The Norfolk Youth Music Trust
Hello Ivor, Thank you - a pleasure to have been of assistance. All the best, Reg
4 March 2011 – From Bob Avery
Dear Reg, Just to let you know that as of October 2009, both Mick Oakley and Garry Holmes were still working as Press Room managers at Parly. Press. Also that John Carter, Tony Ford and Peter Watts are regular attenders at the annual London get together/lunch. On a sad note I report the death of Chris Dallen (Electrical Engineer at Parly Press) on 24 December 2010, and also Mr Antony Williams (Ex Warehouse and Distribution Manager at Bristol Warehouse) on 10 January 2011. Regards, Bob Avery
Hello Bob, Thank you for the news - both good and sad. We will publish your note as I am sure that many old colleagues will be interested. Best wishes, Reg
23 February 2011 – From David Sansom
Good afternoon, I was Wealdstone "born and bred" and out of curiosity I looked on the 1911 census to see who lived in our house at the time. The occupier was a compositor who had apparently moved up from the Bromley area of south London. It seems possible that he moved to work at HMSO but I am unable to find any history of the organisation to verify dates etc. Do you know if there is a web-site with the HMSO history or possibly you may know if my theory is viable. Thank you, David Sansom
Hello David, Thank you for your message, which we will publish to see if anyone can add information. The HMSO History 1786-1986 gives the information that ' . . . [in 1918] HMSO was unable to handle the rush order from the Ministry of Food for 78 million ration books. For this the Government requisitioned the works of David Allen and Company in Harrow . . .'. Incidentally, my uncle, Harry Wakeley, who lived in Rayners Lane, worked there for a while, after some time at the Radio Times. There seems to have been several printers in the area between the wars. Good luck with your search. All the best, Reg Walker.
16 February 2011 - From Vanessa Collins
I've just found your web site, after talking to John Rumbald and Dave Pelham. Some names I recognise and when I saw your photo Reg, it made shivers run down my spine! You won't remember me Vanessa Watson as I was then. I worked in Supplies, CAPO, Print Marketing and Credit Control. I'm married now with a nearly 4 year old - no intention of ever returning to work and just wanted to say Hi and to see if anyone remembers me! Vanessa Collins (nee Watson)
Hello Vanessa, How could we forget you? 14 May is still regarded as a Public Holiday among the residents of the Supplies Machinery Home for the Bewildered in commemoration of the day you joined the section in 1984. 1984? Surely it can't be that long ago? Excellent to hear that you are doing a worthwhile job now- looking after a young one (about the same age as my younger granddaughter). Best wishes to you and yours. Reg
16 February 2010 - Down Under Back Over
Those of you who remember David Silver's last visit to England will recall a sunny day in the garden of The Eagle, Newmarket Road, Norwich. Well, David is hoping to bring the best of the Australian climate back with him when he visits again on Wednesday 17 August 2011. It may seem a long way off now, but it's only 200 days or so, and those of us who are retired know how quickly days fly past. So it's lunchtime, The Eagle, 17 August. Start saving now: he will be very thirsty after all that flying.
15 February 2011 – From Brian Blackmore
Reg, Don't think I can help regarding the Gestetner 105s at Orsman Road - new technology is beyond me! Funny you should mention Callum Matheson. I occasionally wonder what happened to him? If ever there was an innocent abroad in London he fitted the bill. I still remember his tuts of disapproval over some of my nights out. I will try and find some pictures, not that they will be a pretty sight. Looking at some of the old hands I don't think I need worry. I can be seen on our website but not easily. One in particular is Vigilance on YouTube where the crew gain a new Ricard record, I appear in bottom left corner. That night we tried to drink as many Ricards (supplied free) until we could touch the ceiling with the empties. Fortunately everyone else joined to help out. We have something of a reputation in Paimpol, a place often visited. Will keep in touch. Brian
Hello again Brian. Good to hear that your stamina is undiminished. Look forward to the pictures. Just had a look at the YouTube item: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpuyBxuu8rgYou look just as you always did - but someone has planted skin where the hair used to be. Looks like a good night. All the best, Reg.
14 February 2011 – From Billy Stevenson
Hello again Reg, Bob Avery in one of his IC pieces mentions sharing ‘digs’ with Malcolm McNeill and Peter Wall. This would have been when Malcolm first came to the Belfast Bookshop as a newly promoted Assistant Bookseller.
On reading this I remembered one morning when Malcolm was in a bit of an agitated state: he had come into town with Peter, who had just arrived in Belfast. They travelled in Peter's car and he, as he thought, parked it conveniently outside the Law Courts, which was only a matter of yards from Chichester House (home of HMSO in those days). Not long after, several buildings were evacuated and Peter Wall’s car was being primed for a controlled explosion. One was careful where one parked in those days. Cheers, Billy
Hello Billy. Yes, it could be a surreal experience for those of us used to the calm of London and Norwich. A nice reminder of days we don't want back. All the best. Reg
9 February 2011 – From Billy Stevenson
Hi Reg. While browsing the website I came across “The changing face of HMSO’s London office buildings”. In the closing paragraph you mention that Holborn Bookshop is now a branch of Starbucks. What is it about bookshops and coffee houses? House of Fraser now occupies what once was HMSO Northern Ireland as pointed out by Norman Armstrong a while ago. But guess what? In a corner of that Department Store in what would have been the Bookshop is Nero’s “The finest coffee this side of Milan”. When I venture in to top up the caffeine count I sometimes imagine I see Malcolm Mc Neill’s Size 12 Veltshoens jutting out from an adjacent table. Best Wishes to all. Billy
Hello Billy, Good to hear from you - and a nice reminder of Malcolm McNeill. Perhaps appropriately-situated readers of HMSOldies would let us know whether other old Bookshop sites are now purveying products designed to keep people awake rather than putting them to sleep . . . All the best. Reg
7 February 2011 – From Brian Cockram
Reg, You have finally poked me into life. Pleased to hear that you heard from Brian Blackmore. He lived for some years opposite us in Old Catton. In the old A A Smith house! I last saw Brian in Brixton some ago years. He took us on a extend walk around the coast at a brisk trot. However we were excused his daily couple of miles swim to an off shore point!
Bill Greenaway sold me his old bike sometime in the early 70's, on the understanding that when I had finished with it he would have first refusal. It had two dodgy tyres. With new tyres it served me well until I passed it on to my son who took it to Salford University. A rather rough neighbourhood in those days. He and his mates regularly repelled local lads clambering up the drain pipes to 3rd floor windows in the student accommodation. The lower windows were heavily barred. The bike never made it back to Norwich. My apologies to Bill. Brian
Hello Brian, Good to hear from you, with reminiscences to be added to HMSOldies. We will include your South Londoner slip of the pen - Brixton, was it? I hope you walked through the Market, past Bon Marche and into The Empress. Or did you mean Brixham? Happy days. All the best, Reg
6 February 2011 – From Brian Blackmore
Reg, I have only just become aware of your website and what a pleasant surprise it has proven to be. In the coming days I shall examine it in more detail. Having retired some 20 years ago it's nice to see how old colleagues are progressing. As to what I have been up to, well most of the time has been spent in and around boats. I am part owner of an 85 year-old Brixham sailing trawler so summer months are spent sailing around the Devon coast with two or three trips per year to the French coast, taking in the Channel Islands on the way. The winter months are spent on maintenance because the old girl needs to be looked after. More detail can be seen on our website www.vigilanceofbrixham.co.uk. Other activities include annual visits to the Greek Islands, walking the coastal path and if all else fails, decorating!
Health-wise, I am fit, without recourse to the doctor and pills. Long may it continue that way! Beryl has not been quite so fortunate and suffered a stroke 7 years ago. Luckily it did not affect limbs or features but she sometimes experiences difficulty recalling words. Regards, Brian Blackmore
Hello Brian, What a great surprise! Believe it or not, I was only reminiscing about the old days of Supplies Division with Jim McGregor (S6c) the other day. Your name (S7b) came up, with NA 'Chester' Willmott, John Stanger, Jock Barr (all gone) and Callum Matheson, from Stornoway - wonder what he is doing these days. I had heard, via Brian Cockram, that you were heavily involved with sailing, but had not realised the magnificence of your Craft. I have looked through the pictures to see if you appear, but no luck so far - unless you are heavily disguised. A picture (and an old one from HMSO days as well for comparison purposes!) would be much appreciated for the site. You will spot some familiar faces on the set provided by John Butler - see 'Pictures' under the year 1967. I still see Rod Durkin and Alan Cole regularly. Alan still remembers your days as the Rambo of Manchester R.O. Good, but unsurprising, to hear that you are still active - sorry to hear of Beryl's problems. Let us know if you are ever in this area - and in the remote chance that i make it to Brixham I will be sure to pester you. There are still some discrepancies in the OMRS-reconditioned Gestetner 105 stocks at Orsman Road I want to clear up with you . . . All the very best, and keep in touch, Reg
3 February 2011 – From Steve McIlroy
Hi Reg, Thanks for getting back to me. Most of those names, ie John Carter, Gerry Taylor, Peter Watts, Tim Coy, Tony Ford and Roy Charlott rang a big bell with me. John Carter was the very first person I met when I started at SSPP and one of the funniest things to happen included John as the butt of the joke. One morning somebody inked up the earpiece of the office phone and it just so happened to be a day when a party of Bigwigs from Parliament were visiting the Press - even they found it amusing but John was the last person to suss that he had a big black earhole. You would have thought all the laughter in his direction might have give him an idea.
Another funny incident happened on nights, I think. Alan Hill's car was broken into so he called the police to report his rolls stolen. The police were round Pocock Street in a flash and asked him what type of Rolls it was? “Cheese and Onion I think”. It sounds so silly to be true, but it is!
Some of my work colleagues went on to the new Parliamentary Press, Michael Oakley, Brian Green and Garry Holmes and I believe they may still be there. I have tried unsuccessfully to contact any of them. Mick Oakley was an overseer. Any ideas on how to contact these people from the past? Keep in contact and I will send more info. Regards, Steve
Hello Steve, Good to hear that your memory has been jogged. We will add your note to HMSOldies and see if we get any more responses. You never know who might just get hold of a computer and put in the name HMSO. All the best, Reg
29 January 2011 - From Steve Mcilroy (Alabama USA)
Hello Reg, My name is Stephen Mcilroy and I have just stumbled on to your web site, as a former employee of HMSO I was curious and very interested in it and thought I would contact you on the back of that. I was a machine-minder at St Stephen's Parliamentary press through my apprenticeship which started in September 1974 until my departure for Fleet St in 1985.
I have very fond memories of the place and can honestly say that my time there was a pleasure. I used to enjoy going to work, believe it or not. I think it was all the characters that made up the machine room workforce and all the wind ups and laughs we had daily that helped. Don’t get me wrong we worked when we had to but lots of downtime waiting for jobs like the London Gazette on days and the Vote and Given on nights, left us trying to fill in the time. My apprenticeship was great and I learnt all my skills at the London College of Printing, both at Back Hill and the Elephant, but at work due to time constraints it was a sheet up and run on make sure there were no batters and watch the space ups. I started there towards the end of the long strike in 1974 and didn’t see a press run until I started college three weeks later.
I have recently emigrated to the USA and run my own printing business in Anniston Alabama. Do you have any contact with any of the old m/c room staff from SSPP? If so run some names past me, or if you would like I could rack my brains for some of my memories. Be good to hear from you. Regards Steve
Hello Steve, Good to hear from you — it is a long way from Blackfriars Road that you are these days. I was down around the old SSPP recently, and as you may know it is now a County Court. Most of the pubs are still standing, although the Prince William Henry (a good Young's pub) has unfortunately been 'gentrified.' If you look back at the photographs on HMSOldies you will see that a group of HMSO Press people still have a Christmas event in the area.
We will publish your note to see if anyone comes back with memories of those days. I was in Management Services around the time you were there and did a review at the Press for a couple of weeks. Dave Forbes (still around) was Manager at the time, with Eric Hendry, Andy Fisher and Cyril Pendergast on his team. I don't have the names of any production staff for that period, but some of the Works Overseers were Messrs JA Carter, GC Taylor, RA Charles, KW Kent, RJ Shurmer, R Charlott, RL Carrington, SJW Sobolewski, JM Clark, LVQ Edwards, AE Perry, GP Brewer, PS Watts, RP Coy, RA Jackson, AFW Entecott, SB Porter, GW Gregory, AR Whitehead, M Edwards, RT Hill, RH Davies, WTJ Collett, DW Massini, MA Fraulo, DM Neville, EP Gregory and PA Burke. I hope that at least one name rings a bell.
Now I will go back to listening to the football, where Norwich is drawing 0-0 with Crystal Palace, ten minutes to go . . . All the best. Reg
The Eagle, lunchtime Wednesday 2 February 2011
Following our recent notice of another unorganised reunion at The Eagle, Newmarket Road, Norwich we have been inundated with replies giving reasons for non attendance. Not good enough, Mary Robinson and David Silver — Australia is only a hop away. And who would know that so many 'struggling pensioners' can still afford winter holidays? Holidays from what, I'd like to know.
Anyway, at least 20 hardy souls should be there. It's not too late — just turn up on the day. Bring money. And HMSO memorabilia of the portable kind — no Lab Testing Harnesses, Brian.
I have a list of possible attendees which I could pass, under plain brown email, to those of a nervous disposition.
16 Jan 20100 – Anyone remember Albert McLaren MBE?
Kay McGrory writes: I have been searching the net for information regarding a relation of my grandmother, a brother who I believe worked for HMSO and received the MBE for his work there. He served in the Army and I believe his name is Albert Mclaren. He lived in London and the family were from Bermondsey. His sister lived in Southwark and Walworth; his father's name was Robert and mother I think was Helen. I hope you may have some info but if not thank you for taking the time to read this email. Regards Kay
Hello Kay, A difficult one, given that we don't have dates or location within HMSO. But we will add to our website. You never know, someone may get back to us, and we will let you know. The War Service aspect may also give a clue. Reg
16 Jan 2011 – Did you say 1250? Must be time for lunch . . .
HMSOldies welcomes approaches from Suppliers and Customers as well as from ex-employees. They rarely respond (perhaps they are still awaiting a promised order — or a delivery) so imagine our pleasure upon receiving a note from the Lord of the Manor of Holland on Sea, Allan Quinnell.
Those of you in Supplies may well remember the heady days of non-computerised office machinery. One of our main suppliers was Addressograph-Multigraph, with its 1250/1250AF/1250ASC printing machines, the Varityper series and the Bruning 2000 flatbed copier (excuse me for a moment while I go out and get a life . . . ).
The Company’s London HQ was at The Aldwych, where they employed 20+ ‘young’ salesmen (the trade was overwhelmingly male) in the Government Division. Managed by Eric Insley, there were Bob Nuttall, Ron Brigginshaw, Bernard Johnson, Peter ‘three fingers of Vera Lynn’ Lees, Ron Landau, Eric Lambert, Mike Fryman, Harry Luff, Tony Jillings, Ken Mole, Doug White, Messrs Macdonald, Shaw, Ron Ruby . . . and several others over the years.
Allan went off to sell Collators for another company, and retired some 14 years ago (he admits to an incredible 76) and keep back by cycling and the odd bout of vigorous nostalgia with Eric Lambert and Bob Nuttall (Mayor of Notty Ash).
Anybody got some Code 42-12 I can borrow?
Who remembers Reg Jenner at Harrow Press?
On 11 January we received the following note from Reg's son, Stephen:
'I would be grateful if you could post this note on the HMSOldies website. I am looking for anyone that knew my father (Reg Jenner) during his time at HMSO Harrow Press. He was there for most of the 1980s.'
4 Jan 2011 - Eine frohe Weihnacht und ein gutes Neues Jahr
That was the message on the Christmas Card sent to Roy Plackett by Gary Bishop, who lives in Willich, Germany. Gary was the resident European Print Liaison Officer, appointed by HMSO Print in the early 1990s. He writes:
‘After being unemployed for over a year (after Donnelly closed) I had little alternative to become self-employed . . . the job situation here is not so rosy, and once you reach 50 — sometimes even 40 — there is not much chance of finding work. In August I started up on my own . . . with JHQ in Reindahlen due to close in 2013 the potential customer base is rapidly reducing.’
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