Investigations by Nick Clark into the whereabouts of Central School memorabilia taken over by Henry Cavendish School have raised questions about whether there really was an old oak lectern. Brian Skeldon has unearthed the evidence. See also David Cattermole's recollections, here.

May 20^th, 2005: Brian Skeldon writes:
I enclose a copy of an email just received by myself. It's origins are self explanatory. For my part, I have an extract from the 1947 School Magazine, below, which clearly states that the Central School Old Boys donated the lectern in question. Jim Lingard can confirm that it was taken to Henry Cavendish School as were some twenty silver trophies for numerous sporting/achievements and events etc., and the organ, although I understand from Jim, that the internals of the organ were no longer functional, and possibly that the carcass was destroyed just before he left. I can confirm that with Jim of course.

CENTRAL SCHOOL OLD BOYS ' ASSOCIATION
President: H. A Elsey. Joint Hon. secs.: A Joseph, G. Critchlow.

The C.S.O.B.A is once again coming into its own. With the war over, and many "veterans" back with us again, we are hoping to recapture some of that spirit which made our Association one of the most successful in Derby.

We have amongst us some very enterprising Old Boys who are making great efforts in administering and encouraging the activities of the various sections of the Association. The Old Centaurs Theatre Group has so far had a most successful season, and is looking forward to even better results; and both the Cricket and Football Clubs are

flourishing. For the first time since I939 we are holding an Annual Dinner, which we are confident will be the occasion of many happy re-unions. At least two Association Dances are being arranged during the Winter Season, so, if you haven't put your dancing shoes on the shelf, may we have your support?

It was decided at the Annual General Meeting to present a lectern to the School in memory of the Old Boys who paid the supreme price for Freedom. Any subscriptions towards its cost should be sent to the Headmaster of the Central School, who has kindly offered to take charge of the Fund.

The most difficult part of the work of the Secretaries of the Association is to keep in touch with Old Boys, particularly those who left school before the war. To ensure regular notification of events concerning the Association make sure that your address is in the hands of one of the .Joint Secretaries, and keep your eye on the "Evening Telegraph" for all functions are advertised.

A Happy Christmas to you all! 

A Joseph, G. Critchlow,

Hon. Joint Secretaries.