downing text 2012_Layout 1 - Downing College - University of ...

DOWNING COLLEGE ASSOCIATIONIn 1989, on retirement, John relocated to the Highlands and the family had abeautiful home which fronted on to the spectacular sandy beaches of theDornoch Firth.I had for many years had the ambition of one day owning a property in theScottish Highlands – I was born in Inverness and maybe a homing instinct wasin the soul.After much deliberation and many weekend visits to and around the norththe preferred location was to be Dornoch. Dornoch is a ‘wee’ gem on the eastcoast about forty miles north of Inverness. The small town has a world famousgolf course, endless silver sandy beaches and at its centre is an historic cathedralwhich widely featured during the wedding of Madonna and Guy Ritchie.Two years ago three new terraced town houses were being built in theDornoch Cathedral Conservation Area in the traditional Dornoch style andthe decision was made to purchase one of these. During the purchase process Igot to know John and his wife Betty very well for they had already purchasedand occupied the property at the other end of the three house terrace. Theywere very generous with their advice and assistance and were welcoming in truehighland fashion. In fact they were quite delightful.John and Betty Robinson –June 2012.James (left) and John withtheir father.Vernon Robertson.One afternoon when chatting with John and Betty it was pleasantlysurprising to discover that John had studied at Downing College andfurthermore so had his two brothers. There cannot be too many Cambridgegraduates living to the north of Inverness and the odds against two Downingmen becoming chance immediate neighbours in Dornoch must be very high.I am delighted to have a home in Dornoch if only to have befriended Johnand Betty. (John and Betty met at a Downing May Ball). They are down to earthgenerous Scots. John has been and still is an active member of the RoyalDornoch Golf Club and is an elder of Dornoch Cathedral. They are a strongdetermined couple with a ready sense of humour and are well respected inDornoch and by everybody who meets them.45