On Saturday 1st June 2024 we were delighted to host Rupert Shoolbred’s wife, Camilla, and her daughters Lucy and Pennie and their families, for the Rupert Shoolbred Memorial Hockey game and tree planting in Rupert’s memory. Rupert was renowned for his generosity, friendship and sportsmanship … and for being tiny, yet hard as nails on the hockey pitch (not surprising as a former paratrooper). Past Chair Pete (my voice is so loud I don’t need a PA system) Elsworth reminded us of what a kind and remarkable man Rupert was and what a great contribution he made to BHHHC. Rupert held club roles for many years and was visionary in his ideas to continually improve and develop our hockey club. Particular Rupert highlights included: initiating the merger with Hemel Hempstead Ladies Hockey Club, enabling the purchase of the second grass field (which was originally for grass hockey but now used for football) and his generous donation (when the club was financially on its knees) to help renovate the clubhouse into the impressive facility we enjoy today.

Camilla and her family were delighted and touched by the memorial day. Thanks to all that played and umpired in the memorial game (a close run 2-2 draw). And all those that organised the day to make it such an enjoyable success for all.

Paul Dubenski Chair BHHHC