MCS bids a sad and fond farewell to one of its longest serving members of staff. Head Groundsman Toni Davis is retiring after 47 years of service to the school.

Much has changed since Toni started as a 17-year-old trainee. In the early days he had a variety of jobs from making lanes on the Cherwell for a swimming gala with rope and corks... to cleaning the choristers' shoes!

His first winter at the school stays in his memory as it was the coldest of the century and Toni recalls watching ice hockey being played on the river.

Toni has devoted his career to creating the high-class sports surfaces that have been enjoyed by thousands of boys and visitors. "There have been major changes to the school buildings" he says "but the school field remains what it always has been: the best part of the school."

Toni says he hopes the golf course will keep him fit and is looking forward to pursuing his other hobbies, painting and travelling.

We wish him well.