Roger Bayes RIP

I hope readers will forgive the personal nature of this post. Maybe it will inspire others to share their memories of similar people who shaped their lives.

Three men are primarily responsible for my love of cricket and, by extension, my choice of career. My grandfather, who died two years ago, was one and now, after the death this week of Roger Bayes, that just leaves a certain Essex batsman who scored 8,900 runs for England.

Roger was an English teacher at my old school, Colchester Royal Grammar, and more importantly was also master in charge of cricket. In the former role, I remember him teaching us how to scan a sonnet (I still recall him using the sentence "Old Pat is sure to have a piece of chalk" as an example to the class) or introducing me to The Merchant of Venice, the Grapes of Wrath and To Kill a Mocking Bird.

It was as cricket master that he had most influence. My school was big on rugby and cricket but I was never particularly talented at either. Nonetheless, realising the interest I had in cricket , Roger happily accommodated me into the school cricket set-up in other ways. When I was 15, a year or two before my contemporaries were playing for the school first XI, I was roped in to score for the firsts and I spent several happy summers in the school scorebox, coloured pencils at hand. Yes, I was a geek, but I enjoyed it.

On one occasion, I even got to play. We were up against Wolverhampton Grammar School, who were a player short for some reason. Roger, the wily old sod, offered them the use of his scorer as a spare fielder, knowing how useless I was. He had the good grace to say "well done" when I then caught out the Colchester captain at square leg, one of three catches in my entire school career.

Roger also managed the Essex colts side and one year I scored for them at various county grounds. He even allowed me to join in fielding practice with these future county cricketers (actually only two of them, Elliot Wilson and Nathan Batson, went on to play first-class cricket, both briefly). My skills never improved but it was nice to be involved. For some reason Roger would shout out "OK, Ipswich Town, 4-4-2" before fielding drills. It meant the players had to line up in that formation and he would hit catches to them. Well, they were in 4-4-2, I was a sort of libero player running around like a headless chicken.

Although the pinnacle of my playing career was school second XI, Roger also ran a village side called Camul, after Camulodunum, the Roman name for Colchester, and I played for them occasionally. In 1991, we got to the final of the Mobil Matchplay, a tournament for under-16 sides. Although I had played some of the games on the way (even holding one of those rare catches in a game against Epping), I was naturally not selected for the final, which we lost on a bowl-out after rain interrupted the second innings, but Roger still let me score in the match at Essex's county ground at Chelmsford and, most importantly, announce the bowling changes. My school report that year contained some comment about having a future as a public-address announcer.

I don't think it is being disrespectful to observe that Roger was known for his thirst. The first XI were regularly taken back to his club for drinks after the matches and he was usually seen with a beer or glass of wine in his hand when watching games. There was the time when he was playing cricket and went out to bat with a pint of beer, handing it to the umpire when he was taking strike. Classy. Because of his permanent red face, he was given the affectionate nickname of Rufus. That's the thing about a classical education: it enables children to use Latin tags as a way of mocking their teachers.

He used to referee house football matches from his car, flashing the lights when there was a foul and showing the direction that a kick should be taken with his indicators. He also used to shower with the boys afterwards (oddly given that he had hardly broken a sweat). That would probably be frowned on these days but I honestly can't remember any suggestion of impropriety. Maybe it was just a way of ensuring that the smelly boys washed.

As often happens, I hadn't had any contact with him after leaving school until three years ago I bumped into him behind the Pavilion at Lord's. He had just retired by then and was spending the time well. That summer our school was hosting the annual Royal Grammar Schools cricket festival, which Roger had organised as his swansong, and I was invited along. I remember him then as he ever was, wandering round the boundary with a jug of beer in his hand, shouting admonitions and encouragement to the players.

We exchanged letters a few times in the next couple of years but I hadn't heard anything this year and was thinking about him a few weeks ago, meaning to write. On Monday I heard that he was critically ill in hospital and then heard last night that he had passed away. I suspect he was 70 or thereabouts.

As I said at the beginning, apologies for the meandering personal nature of this post. But a few generations of Colchester schoolboys owe a lot to Roger Bayes. I hope he's enjoying a glass or two in the great pavilion in the sky.

Comments

[Ian Wright]

Stumbled upon this sad news by chance. I had Bodger for English late 70s/early 80s. Still awaiting the return of my extended essay on advertising.

One of the great mavericks of CRGS, who taught us to think for ourselves and be individuals - priceless.

[Mike Baker]

Wonderful to read so many memories of a maverick but conscientious (in his own inimitable way) and inspirational teacher.
I was at CRGS 1968-1975 and was taught by Roger Bayes most of the way through. He was certainly one of the big influences (Chris Barlow was the other) on my decision to read English at Cambridge. I suspect he also had an influence on my choice of journalism and broadcasting as a career as, from the first years in the school, he encouraged debate on topical issues. I was delighted when, many years later, I went back as the BBC's Education Correspondent with a news film crew to do an item about GCSE English and Roger was still there and gave me a good interview. I was an enthusiastic but very poor cricketer (something of a theme in these posts but no false modesty in my case) and enjoyed playing in his teams. I have to say the pint glass was not such a feature in my days when Roger was still a relatively new and idealistic teacher. Nor did I ever see the referee-in-the-car method, although I applaud it.
Roger - thank you.

[Sean Jones]

Roger was my first form teacher (class 1 in 1977). I'm not sure we ever really hit it off. I liked cricket and English Literature too but in proportions inverse to those Roger favoured.

I have a memory of him having caught two boys fighting. He dealt with it by getting them to lie over a desk and circled them swatting their heads with his hand shouting "HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU THAT VIOLENCE ACHIEVES NOTHING!"

[Anonymous]

Stories of football by car signals, cans of apple tango, slow walks around the boundary, team meetings in the North Countryman's Club and a love of Shakespeare & To Kill A Mockingbird seem to run consistently through so many generations.

By whatever method you did it, we all owe you a lot!

"Not Yet Roger, Not Yet!"

[Simon Richardson]

Patrick - a fitting tribute to a quite frankly remarkable man.
I had the pleasure of being taught by "Bayesy" (as he was known) between 1997 and 2002. Hiw lessons never followed formal strusture, I doubt he even prepared for them. Despite this, not one student of his achieved less than an A grade at GCSE. His can of "apple tango" was a legendary item, oft causing merryment amongst his legions of fans.
With reference to his, dare i say, questionable refereeing rechnique, this caused considerable delight, often resulting in throw-ins being conceeded merely to see if he was paying attention.
Mr R bayes, you will be sorely missed. I thank you for the years of entertainment, and occasional education.

[malcolm ruffell]

Patrick

A touching and evocative tribute that brought back many happy memories of my youth.

I was in the 5th form when Roger took his bow at CRGS and he showed great faith in me by picking me in the 1st XI that season, alongside "greats" such as Colin Perkins and Brian Wilshire. Opening the batting as a 15 year old alongside these guys was a daunting experience and I'm not sure I ever repaid the faith Roger showed in me, although I enjoyed my time immensely.
That first year we seemed to be playing cricket everday, which was enjoyable for me if somewhat less enjoyable for my mother as she struggled to keep up with the demands of clean kit.
And we travelled huge distances from Wymondham to Walthamstow and all points in between. I remember one journey to Walthamstow with Roger and Barry with me squeezed into the back of Roger's Hillman Imp (or similar).
The highlight of that first season was a match against the Headmasters XI which included several Essex players including Lever, Ray East, Acfield and Saville. We had them about 80-5 at lunch, but then the alcohol took over and we were well beaten.
After leaving school I did not see Roger again until the mid-80's when we bumped into each other when he as managing the Essex colts side who were playing Kent at my then current club ground. He had changed little and we met regularly, (every two years) thereafter as the Kent fixture came around.
The last time I saw Roger was at the RGS festival at CRGS when Roger encouraged me to be a sponsor. I had a great day and it was apparent to all that Roger was in his element that week.
I guess that sums up Roger, happiest when enjoying the game, encouraging youngsters and having a glass or two. Happy days. RIP.

[Lara V]

Juat wanted to add my appreciation to this remarkable tribute page...Roger taught me for my A level English 1999-2001 - after which I took his advice and went on to read English at University. As only his second year group containing girls, he had a certain fondness for us and we definitely got away with more than our male contemporaries! As so many have mentioned, the resounding memory of Mr Bayes for me is his passion for English literature. When he came in for our lessons (instead of going "to the doctors" also known as the North Countryman's Club) their were frequently tears in his eyes as he read of Othello's misery or of Stevens' unrequited love. We had 5 whole lessons on one line from Othello, which will ever be engraved in my memory, Roger for the 30th time or more, can of "apple Tango" in hand, almost screaming "A foul cistern for toads to knot and gender in!"He also invited me in to do some work experience when I decided to go into teaching and told me (and many classes that I went into) how proud he was.
What a man, what a mentor..i heard that his funeral was standing room only. What a fitting way to say goodbye.
RIP

[Gary Dutch]

Indeed very sad news and some very poignant comments here.

Roger certainly touched many with his character, passion and unorthodox approach - I saw a piece in the local paper last week describing him as "a bon viveur"...I thought that sort of sums him up....

I wasn't much of a cricketer, though was taught English and Rugby by him, and always enjoyed his methods and a few day trips to Lord's which was an eye opener as a 12 year old!!
I bumped into him a few times in various watering holes since leaving CRGS and always enjoyed a cheery catch up with him - I am one of many will remember him fondly...

[Nigel Logan]

I came to CRGS in Autumn 1970 as an A level student, my parents had decided that they could no longer keep me at a certain Public school and the purple blazer beckoned. Winter nets were advertised and I duly turned up - Roger, hoping to have been gifted a 1st X1 fast bowler was excited at the prospect. He must have been disappointed because for the next 2 summers I yoyo-ed twixt the 1st's and the 2nd's (sponsored by the Hoppy Arms!).
The point I wish to get across here is that a young-ish RB was already dominating cricket at CRGS in a way that I had never encountered at the far better financially endowed private school. His was the zeal of a missionary.
Later as a strapping 22 year old and firing on all cylinders I had him (and Barry Minns, don't forget him!)hoping around on a fast Copford wicket - I had a point to make and Roger loved every bit of it!
As an exile in Cornwall I look at local schools and weep - they have not even an inkling as to what they are missing as they fiddle around with quick cricket and rounders.

[Phil Kemp]

Roger was great - never taught me English but gave me the chance to play in the 1st XI when I was only in the fifth year and play at the RGS festival in Worcester in 1991. Looked after the teams all the way from the first year to the first team - fantastic organisation and great summers of cricket.

[Jamie Foyster]

Patrick - a fantastic piece and spot on. Nothing more to say than ...Roge..thanks for everything over the years from English, Cricket to helping me on my drinking career. Rest in Peace.

[Simon Lee, Hull, East Yorkshire, England]

This is very sad news.

Patrick has written a very evocative piece which has made me think of my old school for the first time in more than a quarter of a century.

I too was never good enough as a cricketer to play for the CRGS First XI, but I do have three particular memories of Roger Bayes.

First, that he organised a school trip to Lords where from a sun-drenched vantage point in the Upper Tier of the Nursery End, and fuelled by illicit pints of beer, we had the privilege of watching England bowl out the great West Indies side of the day led by Clive Lloyd.

Second, that he arranged for us to be able to gain free entry after school to Championship matches during the Castle Park Cricket Week, at a time when, under Keith Fletcher's captaincy, Essex were finally assembling a side capable of winning trophies.

Third, that he helped arrange an after school football match between an unofficial CRGS XI and another local school at the Shrub End playing fields, at a time when school tradition had dictated that association football was a game for girls.

For all three experiences and memories, I am very grateful.

I left CRGS in 1981. I know that, as a confused and angry young man, I let Roger down by not going on to Cambridge to read English Literature, as he had recommended. Indeed, the last time I saw him was on the very day that I left the Grammar School. I went to the Staff Room to gain the signatures that would permit me to leave. Roger told me that I was a disappointment to him, but then shook my hand and wished me all the best.

RIP Roger. You were a true Colcestrian and Englishman.

Simon Lee

[Robert Sy]

RIP Roger. I never was even taught by Mr. Bayes but during my time at CRGS ('98 - '05) he would always make an impact on me just by his sheer giantness of character, which is I suppose a tribute to the impact he must have made on those lucky enough to be taught by him. You will be missed.

[Simon Lambert]

I am shocked and saddened by this news. Roger was a great influence in my time at the Grammar school. He was a great teacher or both cricket and english and I was very disappointed when I returned to the school for the first time in 20 odd years a few years back to find he had retired and I wouldn't be able to speak with him - I guess I will never have that chance now. My abiding memory is an english lesson during the Headingley test in '81 just prior to the end of my second year there. He would pop out every 5 mins or so and bring us back news of another Willis wicket in that epic test match. Roger Bayes was CRGS cricket and he developed my love for the game. He will be sadly missed by many who went through that school and many more who came into contact with him.

[Jez Rowan]

I have just finished my time at CRGS and was actually shocked to hear to the news the other day. I think it's brilliant that not only has someone taken the time to write such a warming eulogy, but that so many people have all commented sharing their memories of this one man.
He taught me for GCSE English and I think our class will forever remember the 7 months spent on Macbeth (which was, unbeknown to us at the time, only our coursework part of the GCSE!), and of course who could forget the summer lessons of watching "Boys from the Black Stuff" for 2 weeks.

I was walking out of a lesson early about a month ago and I saw him hanging around by the English quad waiting for Mr. Hadcock. Four years later I still feel I know Macbeth like the back of my hand, and I if I am honest I owe the start of my appreciation of Shakespeare to him. Of course it's a hard thing to say such a thing in the middle of a lesson as a 15 year old, so I decided, now older, to stop and tell him how much I appreciated having him as a teacher during that period. I was so close to walking on past him with a simple hello like so many of us do when thinking of making such a statements to people, but as soon as I hear the news last week it's made me so thankful that I got to pay my respects to him like that.

He wasn't a great teacher perhaps as far as doing it by the 'rules' went, but he was a great teacher in what really matters: he was passionate, interesting, devoted and, I think the most noble quality of them all, he was human. There was nothing fake about Roger Bayes. And I think that is why so many of those that knew him, either as a teacher or a cricket coach will always have a place in their hearts for him.

So let us raise a glass of apple tango to Roger.
Cheers.

[SD]

"Little and often," "The more you bring to it the more you get out of it," and teaching me how to spell 'embarrassed' by making me write it on the board in front of the class until I got it right - my face nearly as red as his - are what I took away with me, and all have served me well. I seem to remember he tended to pick his form, at least when I was there in the nineties, on the basis of 1. cricketing interest, 2. performance at English. Everyone else got who they were given.

[Will Davies]

Roger Bayes, taught me when I attended CRGS between the years of 1996 and 2001.

He was a living legend when I arrived and continued to be so for the duration of my education.

He wasn't the most attentive of teachers (roughly 50 per cent lesson attendance, homework handed back months after it was submitted) but he was part of the lifeblood of a school which was at times an inspiration to attend.

He'll be sadly missed and I'm sure a fitting tribute will be arranged.

[Steve Farrow]

I've never been interested in cricket (sorry), but I had the privilege of having the great man as my form master and English teacher for 2 years (1988-90: he was - and still is - referred to as Bodger by those of us of that era). He was a little bit eccentric and very much a gentleman - an unforgettable and popular character. I'll definitely raise a glass or two in his honour.

[Luke Fisher]

Roger Bayes was Cricket whilst I attended CRGS just feel unlucky never to have been taught English by the man. But was coached and encouraged by him on the cricket pitch and remember his love for the game above anything else.

[Matt Hudson]

Great tribute. Sad news and I am sure that many OCs will mourn his passing.

[Graham Pryke]

I just remember a guy who was very passionate about both his English & Cricket. I left the Grammar School at the end of the 70's but he really got me into the game & I love it to this day. Does anybody know the funeral arrangements?

[BOB MILLER]

I play most years for Gents of Essex in their fixture against CRGS. I play mainly because of the hospitality of Roger Bayes, the conduct of the boys and the Gents team leadership of Pip George. This game always reflects what is best about this great game of ours. Roger was a legend in his own lunch-box.

[Andrew Emrich]

As others have stated, a fitting tribute to a great man.

I was fortunate enough to be taught A-Level English by Roger. I think the tears in his eyes while reading The remains of the day will always stay with me. He was a man who had passion for everything he did, whether it be cricket, English or a swift half.

[Mike Spencer]

Well done, Paddy. A fitting tribute.

"T.K, Gentlemen, T.K" when reading Shakespeare or Hardy (textual knowledge) is another memory, as Roger insisted on us knowing, down to the page number, when significant events happened in our texts. Nightmare, but effective!

Also "There's not much cricket in Shakespeare".

I'll also never forget the time (I was about 14) he asked me to take over reading a passage of text that happened to have the 'F' word in it. As I got ever closer to the expletive, I heard the gentle swell of mates' sniggers and titters in my ears, but I read on unperturbed...only to be greated by an irate Roger slamming a book down on the desk and screaming (red faced) "WELL?! WHAT DO YOU SAY?" at me.
My blank stare said it all, clueless as to what I'd done wrong.
"Don't you think you ought to apologise, Spencer?!" He said menacingly.

RIP Roger. I still share your penchant for parentheses!

[Nick Chadwick]

I left CRGS in 89. Love him or loathe him, Roger did as much for cricket around Colchester as anyone I can think of. I remember school practices where he chucked you out of the nets if you weren't properly attired or were 'slogging'.
Playing 'guess the drink' on tour is another memory - no one knew what peach schnapps was in those days !
Yes, Rog liked a pint, but don't we all and the thing that you could never take away from him was his deep love of the game and incredible enthusiasm for all things cricket.
I feel lucky that I saw him just a few weeks ago when I went back to CRGS with the Gents of Essex side and shared a few memories with him.
There are a lot of cricketers around Colchester who owe him a lot and he will be sadly missed.
Have another half of bitter Rog, you deserve it.