A group of former Hartpury College students returned to the Gloucestershire institution over the summer holidays to celebrate 60 years since they graduated from their respective agricultural courses. The meeting was the group’s third since leaving Hartpury, having also met 25 and 50 years after graduation. 

The reunion took place at the new Agri-Tech Centre, where the alumni met Head of Hartpury College Agriculture; Ben Thompson, Agri-Tech Project Manager; and Barbara Buck, former lecturer and now Hartpury Governor.

The group enjoyed a tour of the farm facilities to see the many changes since their last reunion a decade ago, before having lunch in the Agri-Tech Centre. They also revisited the historic Hartpury House and learnt more about the addition of university status and other significant developments that have taken place over the last ten years.

The gathering was organised by former student Liz Lee, who spoke of their plans for the next reunion in five years time. 

“It’s so wonderful to get everyone together and return to a place we all hold so dearly in our minds. We’re already planning our 65th anniversary and can’t wait to see how Hartpury has evolved once again,” she said.

Other members of the group were also thrilled to return.

“We are very grateful to Hartpury for providing us with such an interesting and enjoyable day,” said Michael Haines, a member of the alumni group.

“We may be a bit older so far as age is concerned, but the mind and company have not changed. I cannot remember a more joyous gathering and it was a delight to share so many memories with so many lovely people.

“Hartpury, now Hartpury University and Hartpury College, has changed very much for the better and I was very impressed by the use of new technology to vastly improve the management and care for livestock. The interaction with the wider farming community is a very good sign for future generations of agricultural students,” he added.