Mr T was a member of staff at Brambletye from 1986 to 2010, first joining as Head of French until, after 13 years in this role, his love of language and linguistic talents led to him becoming Head of Latin for 11 years alongside his teaching of French. Like so many classicists, he had a wide and eclectic range of interests, neatly demonstrated by his much-anticipated annual Christmas General Knowledge quizzes.   He had an encyclopaedic knowledge of obscure facts. 

Outside the classroom Mr T enjoyed being close to the action on the sports field and ran the 3rd, 4th and U9 football teams; the 2nd XV and Colts B rugby teams  and the Cricket 2nd XI for 23 years.  He organised and took part in many staff cricket matches and would turn out regularly for Ashurst Wood - even becoming their Chairman for a period of time.  For a little while he started on Brambletye Sports Days, and it’s said that one was not sure whether it was the voice or the gun that precipitated action!  He mainly oversaw the long jump pit whence “No Jump”” echoed across the Nevill Field. In fact, Mr T’s stentorian voice was quite renowned; a former pupil recalls “Like many others, I met Mr T’s voice before I encountered him face to face. How could his voice carry so far?!”  According to school lore,  the Bursar could hear him coaching games on the Top Field  from his home in Ashurst Wood. 

Mr T, his wife Lesley, and their two sons Graeme and Simon (both OBs themselves) lived at North Lodge at Brambletye, before moving to Tunbridge Wells when the boys went on to attend The Skinners’ School. The family were active members of the Brambletye community, showing great kindness and hospitality to new staff members in particular. 

Mr T was hugely loyal to Brambletye and his love of the school remained steadfast even into retirement. He became Chair of the Old Brambletyean (OB) Committee, and was invaluable in ensuring continuity and a sense of community amongst Brambletyeans past and present. 

Colin was a great card sender, congratulating OBs on achievements, marriages and birthdays.  As the initial driving force behind the rejuvenated OB network, OBs and Brambleye staff always took much pleasure in hearing the OB news from him on his visits to the school. And happily, he did often visit us, returning to sit in his chair on the boundary and watch the 1st XI cricket team on Top Field, or chat with staff and parents on the touchline whilst supporting the 1st “XV” rugby team.

Mr T was a true Brambletye icon and he will be greatly missed by staff,  Old Brambletyeans and all who were fortunate enough to receive his unwavering loyalty and kindness.