On Friday of last week, following a period of illness, the school was very saddened to hear of the death of former headteacher, Bill Byford. Mr Byford was the longest serving headteacher at St Antony’s, joining the school in 2001 before retiring in 2011. A formidable character, Mr Byford oversaw a significant expansion of the school in terms of pupil numbers. He had a personality that was unmatched and his dedication to the Catholic ethos of the school shone through. Each year on the 8th of December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Mr Byford led a group of pilgrims to Our Lady’s shrine in Lourdes. As the school of St Antony’s continues to grow, Mr Byford’s name will always stand out for his leadership during his time and he will be remembered fondly by thousands from this community; former pupils, parents, governors, and, of course, many current staff whom he employed. Please keep Bill and his family in your prayers at this time.