Mick Deards, our much loved Assistant Head of Rowing, passed away on 5th October 2017. Mick has always been part of the Bedford rowing community, first as a boatman and then taking up his post at Bedford High School as the Coach in Charge of Rowing. In his time as Head Coach at the High School he inspired so many girls to take up rowing, and it was through his expertise that girls gained the confidence and skills to enable them to perform to the best of their ability, with some continuing to an elite standard representing their country at international regattas.

We were delighted that he later decided to join us at BGS as Assistant Head of Rowing where he once again inspired many of our Junior rowers with his warmth, kindness and passion for the sport. Mick strove to bring out the best in his rowers and I know there are many alumnae and current rowers who are indebted to the difference he has made to their lives.

As a community, Mick is very much in our thoughts. The school and the Friends of Bedford Girls' School Rowing Club (FBGSRC) would like to focus our efforts on raising sufficient funds to buy a boat named after Mick.

In the Summer Term, after the public exams, a drinks reception will be held by the Boat House to officially launch the Mick Deards. Girls, families and staff, past and present, will all be invited to toast the boat and raise a glass in Mick's memory. The date of this event will be finalised shortly.