The battlefilelds of Ypres

After an early hitch (our guide thought he was showing ozzies around not kiwis!!), we got underway on our Ypres battlefield tour. Led by Flaurent, an outstanding man we covered such notable spots as Messines Ridge, Polygon Wood and Tyne Cot. What a day! It was such a humbling experience to go and see where young men, not a lot older than ourselves perished during the various battles for Ypres. To see names on memorial boards and on gravestones that had either a Christchurch, or even a CBHS connection really blew everyone away.

What was particularly noticeable was the great reverence the Belgians showed to those who had fallen. The immaculate Commonwealth War Graves are a real credit to the most polite, friendly and helpful people you could ever hope to meet.

During the afternoon Ricky's name was drawn out to read the "exhortation" at the last post ceremony, a job that he did with real pride. He was a real credit to the school and widely complimented for his efforts. Then Dom, Callum and Elliott Scott also got to play there part as they laid a wreath on behalf of CBHS. I am sure that this short service, following our battlefield tour is something that will long remain in our thoughts. Mr McIntyre would be very pleased with how the school was represented on this night. The tape of the service is now hopefully on its way to New Zealand and will hopefully be incorporated into the school's ANZAC service this year.

Oh and I nearly forgot....Oli had this huge heap of chips which had an even huger heap of mayonnaise on them...it was insane...he was almost looking like mayonnaise at the end of it.

Anyway another update on way soon.