RIP - Michael A H Hendries (ORC, 49-56)

On being asked to write about Michael Hendries I knew I had a formidable task. Michael was good at most things and exceptional at the others. In1951. Michael was established in Orchard House. The number of boys slightly smaller than the other three houses but a house that punched above its weight. Mike followed a line of capable head boys in 1953 was made Head of house. He did not try to emulate his predecessors but trusted his own instincts. Mike Riggs 1954-1955 wrote when he heard of Michael’s passing “such a nice guy particularly to new boys such as me at the time“ That sentiment spread throughout the house and in time areas of the school.

Michael took part in all school activities from the debating Society and CCF to rugby, athletics and cricket, these latter in spite of suffering health concerns in the midterm of his time at Brecon.

Michael preferred the round ball but nevertheless played wing forward and prop forward for the 1st XV, was proficient at athletics particularly in steeplechases as well as the shorter distances. It was, however, at cricket that he excelled. As a medium fast right arm off break bowler, he made his debut in the 1st XI in 1953 topping the bowling averages in that year with 48 wickets and during his career total with 152 – 5th highest of all time. He captained the XI in 1955 in which year the master in charge of cricket wrote in his review of the season that Michael Hendries proved a success as a captain. He leads by example, is quietly authoritative and uses his head. Mike was a rare person who had the ability to extract the best individually and collectively from every member of the team many of whom were unaware they possessed certain qualities. Encouragement before criticism was Mike’s way. He never took credit but always took responsibility. Michael carried his methods and policies through to 1956 the XI producing record results for the season which stand today.

In an experienced side he contributed 38 wickets and his 72 runs against a strong Mumbles XI not only the highest for the team for the season but also made with the total of 10 runs for four wickets on the board when he went into bat. A total of 168 runs were sufficient to beat Mumbles who were dismissed for 107 with Michael taking five for 32. Performances like that was a feature of the 56 team with different players rising to the occasion. Mike had set the scene.

Michael was head boy of the school in 1956 and left at the end of the summer term. He chose not to go to university. A degree – in people - channelling him through accountancy articles in London where on qualifying he joined Charter Hall Finance a publicly quoted company as secretary and director in the oil industry. The highly competitive City environment beckoned, and further diverse appointments came his way.

In 1962 he married Margaret and also set up his own company specialising in recruitment under the Concord name with offices North, South, East and West of London. Concord grew significantly. leading to his departure from Charter Hall after 20 years’ service in 1986. He continued to promote Concorde into the new millennium. With Margaret and their children, Gary and Sue he settled to enjoy the fruits of his labours while still controlling Concorde in its expanded state.
Thus ended a most successful career in the City  of London but one that gave him the experience to secure contacts and develop Concord into a major competitor in the recruiting sector

Michael maintained his contact with Christ College and his many friends meeting them at international matches and other celebrations.

In more recent years both Mike and Margaret had health issues which limited their activities but stoical as ever they overcame the setbacks concentrating  on parental duties and their many friendships.

Mike and Margaret were an inspiration to their children and grandchildren and passed away within hours of each other. The joy and generosity they displayed throughout their married life was reflected in the support by family and friends who wished them farewell on the 18th of May at a joint service close to their house. A highly moving occasion will be remembered by all. We thank Gary and Sue for their efforts in notifying and inviting the O.B.A at such a sensitive and difficult time. The O.B.A. and Christ College are and have been proud to be associated with The Hendries Family and the support it has given over the years. We pass our condolences to Gary, Sue and their families and wish them all God’s speed.