Interview with Duncan Berry, Chairman of The OS Club
OS Duncan Berry (SH 85-91) has been Chairman of The Old Sedberghian Club since January 2023. With a long-standing connection to the School, including his father authoring the history of The Wilson Run and at least four generations of his family linked to Sedbergh, we caught up with him to find out what inspired him to take on the role.
What do you value most about the Old Sedberghian Club and its community?
There’s nothing quite like attending an OS event and reconnecting with friends and familiar faces. The stories are retold, often becoming more embellished as the years go by, which is all part of the fun.
One of the things I particularly enjoy is catching up with those who were several years above me at school, older pupils of whom you might have been slightly in awe. Years later, you find yourselves sharing stories over a drink or two as equals. That sense of shared experience fosters a strong connection.
Looking back, what were the highlights of Sedbergh’s 500th anniversary year for you?
The OS Club dinner at Lord’s Cricket Ground was truly fantastic. Having previously been there as a spectator, it felt incredibly special to enjoy a wonderful meal in the Long Room: a beautiful, historic space with amazing views over the pitch, and an exclusive area you wouldn’t ordinarily have the opportunity to spend time in.
The Christmas Carol Service at York Minster was also spectacular. Listening to the choir and soloists in such magnificent surroundings genuinely gave me goosebumps. Having so many people connected to Sedbergh gathered together beneath the cathedral vaults, surrounded by beautiful music performed by our current pupils, was magical.
What events or initiatives are you most looking forward to in 2026?
The Rugby Dinner at The Victory Services Club in London on 26th March promises to be a great evening, with some of the sport’s true giants sharing their unique insight and conversation (Will Carling, Abbie Ward, Phil Dowson and John Spencer among other big names!). The event is selling fast so book now if you haven’t already. We hope this event will also inspire a strong turnout to support the School at the Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens finals the following day.
The Wilson Run is always another standout annual event. It’s always fantastic to see so many OS and parents returning to tackle the course in whatever way they can. The sheer number of people taking part now is incredible – the sight of the course alive with runners on a crisp morning is very special.
What do you find most fulfilling about your role?
What I find most rewarding is seeing the growing number of Old Sedberghians, across all generations, engaging with the Club and attending the events so thoughtfully organised throughout the year.
It’s particularly gratifying to hear from those who haven’t returned to Sedbergh for many years — sometimes not since they left — and who say after an event that they won’t leave it so long next time. That renewed connection to the School and to each other is exactly what the Club is about.