We were saddened to hear that Ron Astles, a former Chair of the Board of Governors, has passed away at the age of 81.

Ron was first involved in the activity of the School in 1984 when his son Chris (OS 1991) become a pupil at the senior school. He joined the Stockport Parents’ Association, including serving two years as its Chair. In that role, he was often to be found manning the bottle tombola in the Hallam Library at the Autumn Fair. 

Despite Chris leaving the School in 1991, Ron continued to be involved through the Governing Body, as Chair of Governors between 2012 and 2014 and as joint Vice-Chair for a decade prior to that.

Ron was immensely proud to be part of the School: he was particularly committed to supporting the Duke of Edinburgh scheme as well the creative activities. He and his wife, Sue, spent many happy evenings at plays and concerts.  

In the Chair’s Report in The Stopfordian 2012-2013, Ron shared some valuable advice about teamwork and community: ‘things can and do change - that's life - but together we can face the many challenges…’.

Ron will be fondly remembered by many in the Stockport Grammar School community for his significant contributions to the life of the School over many decades.