Former stalwarts of an educational establishment in Suffolk held a reunion at their former place of work.
The group of 20 former Suffolk Rural employees were invited back to the agricultural college for a tour and a picnic.
The event was organised by Yvonne Mouncer who reached out to former colleagues after a recent health scare.
Yvonne, 66, from Otley worked at the educational establishment between 1993 and 2008.
The former student registrar said: “Looking back it was like being part of a big family. We all helped each other out.
“I had a stroke in October and you realise that time marches on and I just wanted to see everyone as much as possible.
“Many people couldn’t come today – so hopefully we can put another event on later in the year.
“It was great to see so many familiar and friendly faces. Otley (or Suffolk Rural) is a very special place. I remember going for walks at lunchtime and doing Tai Chi at night after work. There was about 50 of us that did it. I have very fond memories of being here. I was a pupil to start with doing business admin, IT and computing.
“It’s 55 years since the college was opened and it has moved with the times. To come back and see it all smartened up is great. It’s got a farm shop, a new animal centre. It’s all taken off. I’d say the college is a great place to come and learn.”
Another reunion attendee was Stewart Cousins, 81 from Halesworth. Stewart was at the college for 29 years between 1974 and 2003. He said: “I started in the horticultural department and was hired by the former principal, John Pearson. We helped build the greenhouses. I eventually became a full-time lecturer and was also deputy head of horticulture.
“I enjoyed the early days and it was like a family. We always had a Christmas lunch together. We started from nothing and grew progressively. I’ve not been back in a few years, and it has changed a lot. I’m glad it’s still here encouraging the rural side of the county.
“To me the college is a friendly place that is an excellent educational establishment with good staff – and the students are well looked after.”
Cheryl Dozzell, 65, from Ipswich worked at Suffolk Rural for ten years. Cheryl was a development tutor, a teacher and also worked with The Princes Trust. Cheryl said: “Every day was different. It’s a very nurturing and safe place for students that offered lots of different things for lots of different people.
“Out of my whole working career, my time here was the best.”
Denis McAuley, 71, from Stanton had a number of roles over 22 years ending up as head of higher education. Denis said: “My favourite memory was going to Dusseldorf in Germany. The people make this place special. It’s like a family – that is my view of it. I’d say the college is unique.”
David Churchyard, 60, from Bildeston worked in IT and support services for 22 years. He said: “The best time was the last reunion in 2018 – seeing old friends and faces. I have happy memories. Everyone got on and worked together. I remember our old tagline used to be ‘small enough to care – big enough to matter’ – and that stays with me.”
Alan Pease is the current principal and CEO of Suffolk New College and Suffolk Rural. He said: “It’s wonderful to hear so many positive tributes and a real fondness from the college being expressed by some of our valued former colleagues. They put the building blocks in place to help us ensure that Suffolk Rural continues to thrive.”