PP Rtn Geoffrey S. Wilson PHF (1929-2020)
When Geoff was appointed to Bedstone School (as it was then known) in 1971, he took on a school with just 99 pupils and in a precarious financial position. During the next 19 years he turned the school around. Within 2 years he had started a junior school, introduced co-education, with the help of his wife, Margaret. It was not long before the name of the school was changed to Bedstone College to counter the appeal of sixth form Colleges.
By the end of his time at Bedstone there was a sound bank balance, almost 250 pupils (of whom only 11 were day pupils) and three new boarding houses built.
Geoff was fully involved in education beyond Bedstone, too, and was a member of various SHMIS and ISA committees (Society of Headmasters in Independent Schools – recently renamed Society of Heads- and Independent Schools Association)
Beyond the gates of Bedstone Geoff involved himself in the community through his membership of Ludlow Rotary Club which he joined in 1973 remaining a member, later an honorary member, until his death. . He was elected President in 1977-78. He was passionate about helping the community – particularly young people – and for years was the Chairman of Ludlow Rotary’s Youth Services Committee. He also helped raise significant sums of money for the British Heart foundation which was a cause that meant much to him following his quintuple by-pass operation.
Geoff was a master of the bon mot and with his sharp mind, wide ranging knowledge, prodigious memory and instant recall as well, it was no surprise that he was appointed Captain of the Ludlow Rotary Quiz team – a team which rarely came lower than second in any competition under his Captaincy.
His enormous contribution to the charitable work of the Club led to him being made a Paul Harris Fellow in 2000 – the highest award that a Rotary Club can give for outstanding service.
I have particular reason to be grateful to Geoff in that regard – since he kindly introduced me into membership of Ludlow Rotary Club in 1991.
Geoff may be gone – but definitely not forgotten. RIP MSS