OLD DERBEIAN SOCIETY

Letters to the Society

The society is always interested to hear from Old Derbeians. Whether you have comments relating to the website, school reminiscences to share, or ideas for a reunion, we would be delighted to receive your correspondence.

Please get in touch. Letters or e-mails that are intended for publication on the society website (or in the printed newsletter) should be addressed to the Editor. Your personal details will not be published unless you so wish.

Alan Lockyer
Acting Editor, Website

Derby School Chapel

Sir,

Members who have been following the saga of St Helen's House, the Pearson Building and all the remaining Derby School buildings on the King Street site will be aware of the plans submitted some time ago for the restoration of the historic buildings to form a boutique hotel and for the development of the remainder of the site for apartments and a crescent of town houses.

The plans submitted and passed by the relevant authorities involve the demolition of the School Chapel which has, sadly, not been functional for many years. Whilst regretting the demise of a building with such close connections to Derby School and its pupils during the long history of St Helen's House as the home for the School, the Old Derbeian Society considered that no real objection to its demolition could be substantiated.

It is understood that the demolition phase will be started some time within the next year and if there is sufficient interest the Society will consider if it is possible to organise a last visit to the Chapel with an opportunity to photograph both the interior and exterior and to re-kindle memories.

If you would be interested in taking part in such a visit, were it possible for arrangements to be made, please contact the Hon. Sec. Stan Smith by email to oldderbeians@googlemail.com with the subject line - Derby School Chapel Visit.

Stan Smith
Hon. Secretary, Old Derbeian Society