This year marks the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Ken Waydelin Hockey Pitch, a significant tribute to a remarkable figure in the history of Bilton Grange. Ken Waydelin, who arrived at the School in 1928 and served for an incredible 42 years, is remembered as the longest-serving teacher in its history. A distinguished hockey international, Waydelin left an indelible mark on generations of Biltonians as both an outstanding schoolmaster and assistant headmaster, as well as an inspirational coach in hockey and cricket.

To honour Waydelin’s legacy, the school inaugurated the Ken Waydelin Hockey Pitch in 2015, located in the old walled garden. The occasion was celebrated with a gathering that included the Mayor of Rugby and hundreds of Biltonians from across the decades, alongside current and former parents, governors, and friends of the school. Robert Cripps (BG 54–59) travelled all the way from Australia to cut the official ribbon, a testament to the lasting impact Waydelin had on his students.

Dr P J Edwards (BG 43—46) fondly recalled, “Ken Waydelin was my hero at Bilton. A true boy scout type, he introduced me to butterflies and moths, shooting and fishing. I spent delightful evenings looking for Puss moth eggs in the black poplars and lime hawk pupae under the trees in the drive. To this day, when I am casting, I hear his voice saying, ‘Keep your elbow in and your waist straight, boy.’”

The opening match at the pitch featured the England Over-50s Squad against a Biltonian team in a closely contested game that ended in a 2-2 draw. Notable players included Harry Carr (BG 01–06), Lukas Lakin (BG 05–10), Mimi Tarrant (BG 06–12), and Ollie Rogerson (BG 07–12), with the team managed by Mark Tovey.

Ken Waydelin’s legacy lives on, and his impact will be celebrated once again at the upcoming Bilton Grange Society Hockey Day on Sunday, 2 March.

There is still time to sign up—link here. We look forward to seeing you there!

Pictured: Ken Waydelin