After a break of several years, it was fantastic to be back together, for the first time since 2019, for Moulsford’s Annual Sporting Lunch. The event was held at the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) on Pall Mall in London last Friday, with 188 people attending.  It was fantastic to see so many Moulsford Dads from across all year groups in the school, as well as a large number of former parents. They were joined by staff from Harrow, Cheltenham College, Radley, Eton, St. Edward’s Oxford, Stowe, The Oratory and Wellington. 

Former England and Bath rugby player David Flatman did the honours as our compère, and Geordan Murphy, retired Leicester Tigers and Ireland legend, was a special guest. Thank you to the new team of Moulsford Dads and staff who have worked hard as a committee to pull this very special event together and to the generous donors of the auction lots.

The RAC lunch provides an opportunity to fundraise, as well as being a social event.  Flats ran an auction of varied and unique lots including a villa in Lombok for a week, and a case of fine wine. This year’s fundraising was for the Edward Bush Legacy Fund, for which over £36k was raised.

Harry Bush, Edward’s older brother and also an Old Mole, spoke very movingly about his brother, describing his grit and determination, his bravery and the skills that he developed, as “forged by the red and yellow lion.”  He continued: “Moulsford provided boundless opportunities and Ed snapped up everyone he could. On the river, he loved to kayak and sail, on the pitches whether for the A team rugby or E team football he played his heart out, on the stage, his booming voice was embodied in the Lion King as Mufasa. Yet nothing demonstrated his mentality better than his ride with learning support. This provided him with an incredible toolbox down the years for success. That was Ed. Doing the hard yards with an unwavering cheeky grin. It is no wonder he went on to be head boy.”

We are extremely grateful that Richard Perkins, who is currently serving in the Coldstream Guards, gave up his time to talk to us following Harry.  He spoke with real passion that resonated with many in the room about the effects of overseas deployment and its effect on mental health.  Richard’s goal is to support the veteran community of the armed forces, who face great struggles when returning to civilian life, through holiday respite and well-being.  The Edward Bush Legacy Fund will be supporting his vision.

The Bush family would like to thank all the organisers of the event, as well as the prize donors, all those who bid for auction lots, and the guest speakers.  For those who would like to see Edward’s obituary and memories written by his friends, please click here.