Old Amplefordians Gather for the CCF Nairac Dinner
Old Amplefordians were proudly represented at the Ampleforth College CCF’s Nairac Dinner held last Saturday evening—an occasion that highlights the enduring connection between the College and the Armed Forces. The evening reflected a culture of service and servant leadership that has long characterised the Ampleforth community, with many Old Amplefordians continuing to serve with distinction across the British military.
This year’s Guest of Honour was Lt Col Will Tulloch (E03), Commanding Officer of the Scots Guards. The evening also included a decorative nod to the College’s long-standing association with the regiment, reflecting the remarkable number of Old Amplefordians who have served, past and present, with the Scots Guards, including the legendary David Stirling (C34) . The recognition also expressed the College’s gratitude to the regiment for their generous support in hosting the Ampleforth CCF contingent for Summer Camp this year.
The dinner brought together members of the Armed Forces, cadets, staff, and friends of the College, with a number of Old Amplefordians present among the distinguished guests. Among them were also Capt Tom Channer (D17) of the Royal Lancers, Lt Freddie Fawcett (C17), Cpl Nick Ledger (C02) of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry, and Trooper James Chester (D/O23), also of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry.
The evening also welcomed a range of distinguished military guests and supporters, including Lt Col Ben Jesty, Commanding Officer of 2 Infantry Training Battalion (the CCF’s Sponsor Unit), Capt Francis Osborn, Educational Training Services Officer in the Adjutant General’s Corps and Founder and Trustee of the Catholic Military Association, representatives of the Cadet Training Team and the Queen’s Own Yeomanry, and Mr Stuart Dean of the Hovingham Royal British Legion.
During the evening, special recognition was given to Sir Julian Brazier, former parent and Governor, whose commitment in recent years has played an important role in supporting and strengthening the CCF at Ampleforth. His encouragement and advocacy for the programme have helped ensure that the opportunities for leadership, service, and character formation offered through the CCF continue to thrive.
The Nairac Dinner is one of the most meaningful moments in the CCF calendar, bringing together past and present members of the Ampleforth community to reflect on service, leadership, and duty. The presence of so many Old Amplefordians serving in the Armed Forces today was a powerful reminder that the values nurtured at Ampleforth continue to find expression in lives of commitment and service long after pupils leave the valley.
