Friday, 3 October 2025

Fwd: Bunny


---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Brian Screaton 
Date: Fri, 3 Oct 2025 at 13:06
Subject: Mr Hutchinson RIP
To: Frank Smith 

Brian Screaton attended the Memorial Service for former woodwork teacher Frank Hutchinson. Here's his feedback:-

"Four Old Wyvernians attended the Thanksgiving for the Life of Frank Hutchinson at St John the Baptist Church in Cold Overton on Wednesday 1st October. They were John Williams, David Billsdon, Stephen Thompson and myself. The church was absolutely full with extra seating filling every possible space. The service was conducted by the Reverend Canon Philip Norwood, and the tributes to Frank (or Fred or Bunny, as we knew him) were led by Sir Mark Prescot Bt, a long time friend of Frank's and a horse trainer with over 2,000 wins to his credit. We learnt much about Frank's 'other life' as a jockey and a poem read by Frank's wife, Jane, called 'When the Riding's done' was particularly poignant.  The wake was held in the Tea Rooms at Gates Garden Centre in the village and was very well catered. A toast was drunk to the life of dear old Fred."

Bob Fionda also attended the funeral. Here's his feedback:-

Fred's Funeral - Summary

The funeral service went very well with about 165 people attending. He had many friends with varying backgrounds, including many from the horse racing world with a personal tribute delivered from the lectern from Sir Mark Prescott the famous trainer who won the Prix De L'Arc du Triomphe ( probably the most prestigious race in the world)  a couple of years ago. He also received an e-mail from Gary Lineker offering his condolences and explaining he would be unable to attend because of filming commitments in Europe.

I had five replies from former members of staff and one from a grateful PGCE student of Fred's, who came to the service.

Bob Fionda


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