Manny Auld honoured with portrait

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Bath Spa honours long-serving colleague with a portrait

Friday, 10 November, 2023

On 23 October, Bath Spa University colleagues gathered for the unveiling of a portrait of the long-serving caretaker at Corsham Court, Manny Auld, who has worked at the University for 23 years.  

Following 25 years’ service in the British Army, Manny joined Bath Spa’s Estates team and is the Head Caretaker at the University’s Corsham Court campus. He said he was “honoured, humbled and thrilled” to be immortalised in such a way. 

Manny’s portrait was painted by Emeritus Professor Gavin Cologne-Brookes, who was also in attendance, and unveiled with Professor John Strachan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise and Director of Corsham Court. Bath Spa students and staff joined Manny's friends and family, and associates from the Corsham Estate to thank Manny for his long service and to wish him well as he continues his much-appreciated work. 

Speaking about Manny, Professor John Strachan said:  

“Manny Auld is well known to all who visit Corsham Court for his genial and lively personality, and for the legendary tours he conducts of our premises. Gavin’s portrait captures his energetic personality very well, and we are delighted to recognise Manny for his outstanding service.” 

Manny’s work requires him to wear several different hats, but he said he loves the variety of his job. Talking about the various aspects of his role, he said: 

“I love it all – the challenges, motivating our students, promoting Bath Spa and organising for maintenance works to be done. As Corsham Court is a stately home there are a lot of rules, so I enjoy directing and helping visitors and liaising between the owners of the house, their staff and our staff. The job is also very convenient as I have lived on-site for over 20 years!” 

Naturally, working at Corsham for such a long time also means there are plenty of interesting stories to share. Thinking back over the experiences that stood out for him, Manny said: 

“Back in my early days we had a massive leak which could have caused major damage to the building and contents – especially the fabulous and irreplaceable art collection. I feel very proud that I was heavily involved in controlling the leak and greatly reducing the damage caused. We also had a couple of bomb scares where we actually had to evacuate. Rather interesting that one, but I'm glad it wasn’t real!” 

Manny’s portrait will remain on permanent display at Corsham Court, providing a caring and ever-watchful eye over the campus he loves and calls home.