On Friday 29th September, 15 Dukies were amongst the many mourners who were present at St Andrew's Church, Caversham, to say farewell to fellow Dukie Daran 'Woody' Woodward, who passed away on 2nd September 2023, aged just 55.

Daran was highly respected by not only his peers, but those Dukies who were younger than him. Daran helped to coach many of them in Rugby and Athletics, (he was Captain of both). Whilst Daran was in hospital, he received a Fortnum & Mason hamper from those Dukies who entered the school in 1982, such was the love for Daran from people 3 years his junior.

Daran's mother had requested a recording of the school singing Jerusalem to be played at the funeral as Daran always said it made the 'hairs stand up on the back of his neck' whenever he sang it in Chapel. Thanks to Stephen King (Chaplain), the ladies from Marketing who recorded it and of course the students and staff who sang their heart out, we were able to provide a beautiful rendition of the hymn.  It was played during the service as the congregation sang along, it was very fitting to have the school be part of the service. Daran's brother Gary (Wy,1986 - 1988) is a Dukie, as are his brother-in-law, Phil Kimber (Marlborough 1980 - 1987) and father-in-law Bill Kimber (Marlborough 1950 -55).

Daran's mum Gill read a poem called 'He is Gone', his 18 year old daughter Ellie read 'Goodbye Dad' by Leanne Brady and his life long friend Paul read a very moving tribute.

Six Dukies carried Daran on his final journey, into and out of the Church and then for the final time into the Chapel of Remembrance at Reading Crematorium. To witness six men, some of whom had not seen each other for 35 years, fall in to step, arms around their shoulders supporting each other as they carried their friend and brother to his final resting place was extremely moving.

Rest in Peace Woody.