Three years after leaving Lancing in 1962 I found myself in the world of musical theatre, thanks to meeting Andrew Lloyd Webber who had definite ambitions in this field, whereas I was a failing law student with a vague desire to be a rock star. At Lancing I was lead singer in the Aardvarks, a pop band largely inspired by Cliff Richard and the Shadows, which was my sole qualification for my deluded ambition.  

Lancing in the early sixties was a lively and liberal school by the standards of the day and (most) extra-curricular activities were, if not encouraged, neither were they stifled. I believe my unorthodox approach to aspects of my life and career stem from my days at the College, even though back then I would have dismissed the idea that I would end up as a lyricist for several internationally successful musicals as ludicrous. 

My official achievements at Lancing were modest, although I look back on my 5th position in the three-mile in my first term with a mixture of pride and bewilderment. I never ran so well again. I did just enough work in the weeks before the exams to pass O and A levels, without being stretched academically, a laid-back approach that meant it was probably just as well I had no desire to proceed to university.  

Perhaps my most memorable Lancing recollection occurred ten years after my time there, when Ian Beer, the Head Master, asked me if it would be possible for the West End company of Jesus Christ Superstar to present the entire show in the Chapel. The singers and musicians were on top form that evening. Watching the performance in that extraordinary building made me realise how much influence the hymns, lessons and even prayers in Lancing Chapel had had on my theatrical good fortune.