Bubble Has Not Burst for 1970's Meschersmitt Students

Two former students of Reigate Grammar School turned the clock back 30 years by returning to their school reunion in the Meschersmitt ‘bubble’ cars they used to drive in the 1970’s. Mark Smith and Andrew Woolley, who both left RGS in 1973, were part of a group of students who drove to school daily in their distinctive two-seater cars and parked them along Church Walk. The cars were a popular sight amongst students and local residents. The pair remained friends since meeting at school and their motoring interests have led them to share a Formula 3 racing car, which they take in turns to race. They are also planning a tour of Europe in the Merschersmitts later this summer.

Commented Mark Smith: ”This reunion was a fantastic trip down memory lane and wonderful that we’ve been able to bring the Meschersmitts back with us. My time at Reigate saw the beginnings of some life-long friendships and it was fantastic to see everyone together and see how the school has developed.”

Added Andrew Woolley: “Coming here was the start of many great things and it’s wonderful to come back. The cars are a labour of love but it’s been great to bring them back and park them up again in Church Walk.”

Over 100 Old Reigatians returned to their old School for the reunion dedicated to those who left in the 1970’s. Many who attended the school during this time witnessed an historic change when, in September 1976, the school reverted back to its original independent status from state control following Surrey County Council’s abolition of state grammar schools. The change back to independence was steered by the then Headmaster, Howard Balance and Chair of Governors, Albert Owen. A building programme shortly followed the move to independence with the Sports and Concert Hall completed in 1978.

1976 saw another historic change for the school as it welcomed the first girls, initially into the Sixth Form and then throughout the school. Amongst the first girls to attend was Jacqui Elsey, nee Emmerton, who attended Saturday’s reunion. Joining Reigate Grammar School was to have a big impact on Jacqui’s life as she met, and subsequently married, her partner, Mark Elsey at the school. Both Mark and Jacqui’s fathers, Peter Elsey and Douglas Emmerton, attended the school in the 1940’s. Their two children, Isabel and Hamish, continue the family tradition and are currently at RGS in Year 8 and 11 respectively.

April 2008