On Friday (22nd April) Bedford High School alumna and military nurse, Squadron Leader Charlotte Thompson-Edgar (pictured with Anna Hunt, Head Girl), spoke at a thanksgiving service marking the official 450th anniversary of the founding of The Harpur Trust.

Dubbed the ‘Angel of Afghanistan’, Charlotte rescued over 600 wounded troops by helicopter in Helmand Province, and last year was awarded the Royal Red Cross Second Class for exceptional services and devotion to duty.

At St Paul’s Church in Bedford, Charlotte spoke with passion about the values she gained at Bedford High School, and how BGS continues to instil these qualities in girls today.

Attended by pupils and staff from all four of The Harpur Trust schools, and local dignitaries, the service also included reading and prayers, a child from each of the schools laying a wreath on the tomb of Sir William Harpur, who is buried in the Trinity Chapel of the church, and tributes made to the former Lord Mayor of London.

Following the service, the celebrations continued with a reception at the Corn Exchange, complete with a 450th birthday cake.