St John's Beaumont Weekend
At SMH we always look forward to the annual visit of St John's Beaumont. As a rival sister school it is only right that we share and enjoy religious, social and competitive pursuits. This year was different because we came together a little earlier in the year. For one thing it was warmer and believe it or not, it wasn't even raining!
Another new dimension was the introduction of a Colts rugby match on top of the traditional swimming gala and 1st XV rugby match.
The weekend got off to an inauspicious start with an accident on the M6 but happily this did not adversely affect SJB's powerful swimming team who won the event with customary aplomb. SMH swam well and it was a closely fought contest.
After Benediction in the College Chapel the boys and their parents enjoyed an entertaining concert given by pupils from both schools, served up with lavish portions of Stonyhurst hospitality in the Top Refectory.
After a taste of boarding school life, the boys met for Mass the following morning before warming up for the matches. It all proved to be honours even with the SMH Colts falling behind in the closing minutes of a hard fought battle. Their senior counterparts overcame a strong side to keep a clean score sheet and notch up 20 points. It was a great day - a celebration of sport - and the cup will remain in safe hands for the next 365 days at least.
Thanks to all the staff, pupils and parents of SJB for making such a success of the weekend.
