On 20th October 2012 Durham School 1st XV played Ampleforth College. It’s one of the biggest rugby fixtures the school plays. I was there to record the game in this new limited edition print, in respect of Noel Shearing who the game is played in memory of. There are only 34 prints available. This was the age Noel Shearing died and I will be donating a framed print to Noel’s charity for auction.
Many of the boys are clearly identifiable in the painting. I am sure this will be the only time any of the Durham School players could hope to have a painting of themselves playing in such a historic side with such a breathtaking backdrop as Durham School and Durham Cathedral. Already several of the boys are ordering their copies of the print, signed and numbered. Most are picking the same number shirt they usually wear for the team.
The print and the original watercolour painting can be seen at my Studio & Gallery in Ponteland. I now have 4 original paintings featuring lads playing rugby for the School which are available as limited edition prints. They have all been painted in watercolour. One of the original watercolours featuring a match with St Pauls is still available.