We are beyond delighted for Old Ipswichian Director Aneil Karia and co-writer Riz Ahmed who were named Oscar winners for 'The Long Goodbye' in the Best Live Action Short Film category, which they co-wrote and directed. The Long Goodbye explores the effect of a right-wing march on a south Asian family preparing for a celebration.

Headmaster Nicholas Weaver says "It was really exciting to hear the news of a former pupil achieving an Oscar for his powerful and moving work, and it will certainly prove an inspiration for current pupils who are looking for a career in the arts. Well done, Aneil!"

The Old Ipswichian Club President and founder and artistic director of Red Rose Chain, an Ipswich-based theatre company,  Joanna Carrick, also commented on Aneil's exciting achievementsaying she "couldn't be more proud" of her former student.

She added: "Aneil started working with us through his growing up, from the age of 10 through his teenage years, and was involved in a number of productions. 

"He's such a lovely guy and amazingly creative, really seeing the value in projects that give voice to marginalised people and challenge the system.

"It's so inspiring to our current young people to see that you can start in Ipswich and really achieve anything you want to if you find your creativity and let it blossom." 

Barry Hoskins, a former teacher for 37 years from 1970 to 2007, taught Aneil Classics and said: "I remember him as a very clever, humorous and thoughtful young man."

To read the EADT article please click here:

READ EADT COVERAGE HERE

WATCH THE LONG GOODBYE HERE

A huge congratulations to Aneil, and all who worked on the film. What a wonderful achievement!