On Friday 18th November, Old Bedfordians and their guests gathered at the prestigious Cutlers’ Hall for the much-anticipated OB Club’s Annual Dinner. The conversation flowed and the staff made everyone feel most welcome during the drinks reception. There was also an opportunity to learn about the Cultels’ Company; one of the most ancient of the City of London livery companies which received its first Royal Charter from Henry V in 1416.
The Head Master gave a light-hearted review of the year at the school and thanked the OB community for their ongoing support. He then went through the Estate Masterplan, “ arguably, the most ambitious building project we have had, certainly since the Great Fire of 1979”, before raising a glass to The Old Bedfordians Club, “Tonight is all about friendship and renewing old acquaintances, reminiscing, and enjoying great company. I do hope you have a wonderful evening; thank you so much for coming.”
The President of the Club, Professor Martin Snaith (53-63), thanked the Head Master for his toast and went on to thank the Old Bedfordians Club team for all their work, highlighting some of the club’s activities over the year and encouraging DVPs (District Vice Presidents) to get involved. There was a fantastic atmosphere of friendship and camaraderie in the room, as guests proceeded to tuck in to a delicious three-course supper.
Our guest speaker, Old Stoic, Sir Nicholas Forwood KC, one of Europe’s most influential competition lawyers, entertained the audience with some fascinating anecdotes from his life in the legal world. He also shared how his memory of Bedford, was from when his 2nd XV squat (at Stowe) beat them at rugby. However, upon checking the score, ahead of the dinner, he realised that his recollection was not entirely accurate – the score was actually 26-17…to Bedford!
Thank you to all for attending, particularly to those who travelled from abroad and those who came to their first OB event since leaving school – you are all most welcome and we hope that you will all join us at future reunions and gatherings.