Hall of Fame - It’s not just that we have female Old Brightonians, but that many of them are already achieving so much. Nina Humphries (F. 1989-91) has already established a name for herself as a foremost composer, providing the themes to a variety of major television series, while our foremost female OB ambassador is Clare Connor MBE (W.1989-94), England Women’s Cricket Captain, television broadcaster and teacher at Brighton College. I am delighted at her inclusion as the first female in our Hall of Fame, a major part of our expanding website, and look forward to more female OBs being nominated soon.
Clare joins people like Dave Clark (H. 1982-85), the legendary techno DJ and anti-drugs campaigner, Oliver Heath (R. 1983-88) of Changing Rooms fame, and Daniel Peltz (S.1974-79), a highly successful property investor and author of two novels, not to mention Lords Skidelsky and Alexander, Peter Mayle or Tony Hawks. These are just a few of the 26 people currently enrolled.
Keep an eye on the website - www.oldbrightonians.com - for new names in the coming months, or email me to nominate OBs who you think have made their mark in life.
South Africa 2005 - I was very pleased that the OBA has been able to sponsor the College Rugby and Netball Tour of South Africa this year, our second time of being major sponsors. I attended the fundraising Ball in March and was able to meet some of the Brighton tourists who will represent their College and their country. OBs can be assured that these young men and women will represent us well. We all wish them every success in August.
Social Events - We have an exciting range of social activities planned for the rest of the year and I urge all OBs to get involved. If you enjoy a good drink after work, the London Informal Drinks on 10 May are for you – last time more than 40 people drank the bar dry! A new fixture is the private hospitality box at Brands Hatch in June, courtesy of OB Jonathan Palmer (A. 1969-74). Tickets are in short supply, so please book now to avoid disappointment. The Annual Dinner will be a splendid occasion in November, with Johnny Gold (L..1940-45) as our Guest of Honour. There is a special ticket price for couples, so please take advantage!
Modernisation - A lot is being done behind the scenes to bring our Association up to date and to take us forward. I am encouraged by the increased participation of OBs from all eras, as well as the generosity of members who give their time and money to help us in our endeavours. Ultimately we have two objectives – to stay in touch with one another and to support the current pupils and staff of Brighton College. I believe we are getting better at both – and in this 160th anniversary year, I think we can go forward with confidence and pride.
Happy Birthday Brighton College!