The Haileybury Society is saddened to learn of the death of Capt. Michael Alfred Ashton, MC (E 34), who has died on 7th January 2016, aged 95.

Born at Linton, Cambridgeshire,?Michael spent his early life surrounded by animals – a key feature in his ultimate decision to become a vet. Notwithstanding, in 1939 he joined the 4th Battalion of the Royal Norfolk Regiment, arriving in Singapore on 29th January, 1942, to support?in the ultimately unsuccessful defence of Singapore.

Awarded MC after capture by Japanese

Captured by the Japanese, he spent time at the notorious Changhi barracks before eventually ending up in a camp of 10,000 men on Tamuan, Thailand. Caring for men under extremely trying circumstances, Michael was subsequently awarded the Military Cross for both his bravery and initiative.

Post war specialism in horses

After the war, Michael trained as a vet in Greenwich, eventually setting up in practice in Arundel in 1951. Two decades later, in 1970, he returned to his childhood love and set up an entirely equine-based practice. His Arundel Veterinary Practice became what is now the Arundel Equine Hospital.

Mike later took on the management of Lavington Stud in West Sussex and was racecourse vet at Sandown, Epsom, Brighton and Goodwood. It was during this part of his career that he worked with horses such as 1978 Derby winner Shirley Heights (see picture) and racehorse trainers John Dunlop, Guy Harwood and Josh Gifford.

Long after his retirement, Michael still liked to keep his hand in with owners in Sussex; Dr Margaret Evans, owner of Eau de Cologne, even referred to him as her ‘racing manager’.?The horse itself went on to win ten chases at top courses such as Kempton, Ascot and Newbury, and was placed 17 times.

Michael was twice married. His first wife Betty died in 1982; his second wife Anne outlived him.

Image of Shirley Heights by Albert Demuyser, courtesy of Wikipedia commons