London Lunch

Over 110 Fellows and their guests attended another “sell out” London lunch in the prestigious RAF Club on Piccadilly. It was our third time at the club but the first time it had enjoyed the much appreciated sponsorship of BMW Park Lane who offer signed up members worthwhile discounts on new BMWs and MINIs – check our website for more details.

It was also different and very special in that not only was it the King’s birthday it was actually the 90th for our own “king” Tony Ball, ex Chair and ex President. Careful management kept the arrangements secret from him and his entrance was then accompanied by a standing ovation and his son Michael Ball leading the singing of Happy Birthday. Later on his table enjoyed a special birthday cake which recognised his role with the launch of the Mini and Peter Lewis-Jones paid tribute to Tony’s unrivalled career in the industry and with the Fellowship – an emotional time was had by all!

Attendees had been met in our Reception by the smiling faces of Suzy Cole and Babs Barfoot (sadly Norma Russell had to drop out with ill health and co-organiser John Russell took the right decision to say home with her). The Churchill Bar filled rapidly with Fellows and their guests with noise and enjoyment levels increasing accordingly. After an introductory welcome and comments from Chair Peter Cottle and Grace from Hon Sec David Stevens an impeccably served and as always excellent meal was enjoyed in anticipation of our guest speaker, Michael van der Sande. Michael had flown in from the Netherlands early that morning but showed no sign of tiredness as he regaled us with anecdotes of his time in the industry including that with Tesla and Trump champion Elon Musk and he echoed many of our thoughts regarding how motor vehicle technology has accelerated and not always to the benefit of the driver. After Michael toasted the Fellowship Vice Chair Ray Sommerville gave the response reflecting on his involvement with Michael over the years.

It was then time for the traditional Heads and Tales game in support of BEN. A closely contested game with “Tales” successively coming up a suspiciously number of times eventually seeing the Magnum of Champagne going to Tony Ball’s table already groaning under the weight of many bottles! This game over the has consistently provided funds in support of the great work undertaken by BEN and this year was no exception with the proceedings closing with a cheque being presented to retiring CEO Zara Ross and new incumbent Rachel Clift.
After some closing comments those that still had the energy retired to top up and continue engaging in the Churchill Bar.

A very special day for many reasons!
Nigel Barfoot