2006 Annual Dinner

The London Old Cryptians’ Club held their annual dinner at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese on Saturday 25th November 2007. There were only 17 Old Cryptians in attendance. However it was a most convivial evening that was enjoyed in this most fascinating old pub.

John Goodridge, the veteran Chairman of the London Club, once again excelled himself as our host. John commenced the evening with his shrewd direction of the AGM. Plans are now well-advanced to mark the 60th Anniversary of the foundation of the London Branch in 2007 with a dinner in the House of Commons in November and a river cruise from Runnymede to Windsor in June for Old Cryptians, their families and friends. Both events are so deserving of the support of all Old Cryptians.

Prior to the meal John Goodridge invested the President, Peter Hobbs, with his chain of office. Peter acknowledged this presentation and the applause with which it was accompanied. Peter stated that he felt honoured to be the president and gave his commitment to best serve the interests of the Club during his time in office.

After the excellent meal John introduced the chief guest and speaker, Paul Haigh (1982 - 1989). Paul spoke with humour and verve of his time as a young officer who had served in Bosnia and of his rigourous training for leadership. It was most refreshing to have as our chief guest a younger member of the Club and it is hoped that this may be replicated at future gatherings of Old Cryptians.

The Headmaster spoke with his customary humour and passion of the most recent achievements by the current cohorts of Cryptians and of the splendid plans for additional accommodation and refurbishment in the school in the short term. His comments were well received.

Regrettably the length of time that was taken in serving each of the four courses of the splendid meal, enforced an indecent rush for the door at the end of the evening, as several of the diners had trains to catch. Sadly there was insufficient time to sing Carmen Cryptiense. No doubt this omission will be rectified when hopefully a large gathering of Old Cryptians will be present to render the song with gusto on the occasion of the 60th Anniversary Dinner.

Howard Allen (1947 - 1955). Reproduced from The Cryptian 2007

Attendees:

Derek Forbes (1934-38)

John Goodridge (1940-50)

Alan Humphries (1940-45)

Gordon Cove (1942-49)

Mike Logan (1942-53)

Roger Phelps (1942-49)

Brian Jones (1945-53)

Howard Allen (1947-55)

Hugh Roe (1947-52)

Ian Williamson (1947-54)