As always at these occasions, Peter was a splendid host who ensured that those who had not met before were introduced and those who had not seen one another in a while were reacquainted. His opening remarks about the power of the OBA tie seemed to strike a chord among some of the more senior guests, though it was noticeable that there were such an array of different OBA and College ties on display, even the OBA Administrator needed help to ascertain what anniversaries and events they all marked!
We were delighted to welcome the Headmaster as our special guest. He gave a typically upbeat assessment of the College’s current position and we were united in our admiration for all he has helped to achieve during his time in Brighton. He remarked that the Association has enjoyed a very good year so far and that he would be continuing to work solidly for the College and the OBA right up until his departure at the end of December. By way of demonstrating this, he announced that he will be visiting South Africa, Australia, Hong Kong, China, and Korea in October / November, and would be meeting as many OBs living there as possible.
The President gave an address in which he praised Dr Seldon for his solid support for the OBA, singling out the erection of a memorial plaque at the English Church in Ypres to commemorate the OBs who gave their lives in the First World War as just one example of that. He concluded by thanking Anthony and his family, proposing a toast to them and their future success.
This event was the brainchild of Peter Miller and was unanimously considered a total success. So much so that the President has asked that another be planned for 2006 and that the guest list should be widened to include all former Presidents as well as Vice-Presidents.
Our thanks to Peter for hosting such a memorable and delicious Luncheon and through him, our thanks to the Army & Navy Club for looking after us all so magnificently.