A heartfelt homecoming at Lampeter
University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s Lampeter campus recently witnessed an influx of spirited, nostalgia-filled alumni, as around 100 graduates from the late 80s and early 90s descended upon their beloved alma mater for a historic, throwback weekend.
The event, affectionately dubbed by the group as ‘The Shambolic Reunion’ was born from an enthusiastic discussion on a St David’s University College alumni social media forum, where old friends reminisced about their days at the Union Bar and the tight-knit community that made their university years unforgettable.
Despite the playful name, there was nothing ‘shambolic’ about the reunion as it was a thoughtfully planned and heartfelt celebration of their shared history.
When the idea of getting old bands back together was floated, Zoë Roddis (BA English Literature, 1993) was volunteered to take the lead. Now a Marketing Specialist, Zoë was trusted by her peers for her expertise and organisational skills. She quickly set the planning wheels in motion, ensuring that every detail of the reunion would capture the essence of their cherished student days.
Reflecting on her time at Lampeter, Zoë said: “It didn’t really matter who you were, or what you were into or what you stood for, you were completely accepted. No one batted an eyelid. It was such a safe environment to do that first bit of growing up in. We look back on our time there so very fondly.”
Alumni stayed in Halls of Residence, dined in the Refectory, and drank at the Union Bar. To set the tone for the weekend, a playlist was curated with everyone’s favourite tunes from the old jukebox.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the return of three beloved musical acts from the era, organised by Nick Bradshaw (BA English Literature, 1991) who resurrected his former Student Union role as Entertainments Officer. The bands; Dim Disgo Heno, Shoot the Drummer, and Edmund Estefan and the Mydroilyn Sound Machine entertained the former classmates, with Nick recreating the magic of the past by bringing back the same sound equipment suppliers from the 80s and 90s to ensure the authenticity of the experience.
About returning to Lampeter, Nick said: “Many of us were apprehensive of messing with something special that had been fixed in our memories a long time ago. Instead, the past was kept intact, and a glorious epilogue was added.”
Lisa Miller (BA English Literature, 1991) performed in Dim Disgo Heno, named from a poster that always appeared when they played during their student days. They hadn’t played together since 1991, but after a quick rehearsal, they performed a set of six songs, giving a standout performance and delighting the crowds.
Lisa said: “The reunion was one of the loveliest experiences I’ve had. It was surreal to see that collection of individuals in that one special place.”
Beyond the music and merriment, the reunion also served as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact Lampeter had on its students. Many attendees reflected on the profound sense of loss they felt after graduation. The shared sense of belonging and acceptance at Lampeter was a common theme in their stories, with many recounting how they had found their place in the university’s unique environment.
Julie O’Donnell (BA Geography, 1992) said: “It was the people, with all their quirks and characters, the unity and shared love of the Lampeter life and experience, that made my time there so special.”
Steve Scaddan (BA Geography, 1993) shared similar sentiments: “What was perhaps most valuable was experiencing perspectives of a whole variety of diverse people, which has enabled me to engage with colleagues and customers from all backgrounds wherever I have worked. The sense of community and acceptance at Lampeter was unparalleled.”
A particularly touching moment was a tree-planting ceremony to honour alumni who have passed away. Andy Rose (BA Welsh, 1994) delivered a moving speech, explaining the tree’s placement near the Union, symbolising the vibrant life and fun shared in that space.
“It was a special moment, to pause and remember those who couldn’t be with us, who are gone too young, too soon,” Andy shared.
This reunion, filled with joy and nostalgia, not only rekindled old friendships and brought back treasured memories, but also reaffirmed the enduring bond shared by the Lampeter alumni. As they departed, along with sore heads, the attendees carried with them the warmth and camaraderie of the weekend. The Shambolic Reunion highlighted the lasting impact of Lampeter and the strong connections that remained despite time and distance.
For many attendees, this was their first visit back to Lampeter. With a second reunion already in the works, it’s hoped they won’t wait as long to return next time.
Only a few weeks after the group’s reunion, Lampeter hosted The Lampeter Society Annual Reunion, welcoming a second large group of alumni back to the campus. To find out more about The Lampeter Society activities, visit: Alumni Associations | University of Wales Trinity Saint David (uwtsd.ac.uk)
More pictures of The Shambolic Reunion below.
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996
