2 minute read
Chairman’s address
CHAIRMANS ADDRESS A Year of Two Halves The current Chairman Mr. Philip Richardson ‘Panzer’ end of year Address
It seems an age since Ian passed over the chain of office to me last November, back then none of us could have foreseen how we would have to adapt and live with Covid 19 in 2020. Despite the unusual and different world we now live in, I have thoroughly enjoyed my term of office.
My year as Chairperson kicked off last December in London with the annual Curry Night, thank you to Ian Edmunds for a great fun filled night. This was followed by the Wall Members Lunch which I had a little too much fun at, as I have little recollection of the event but have been informed that it was a very successful day.
Then it was on to the main event of the year- The Christmas Ball this time with an Irish twist. I hope that everybody enjoyed the night as much as I, my family and guests did – from the Irish dancing troop to Irish trad band - the dance floor was packed all night long and the bacon butties at the end of the night were well earned. A very special thanks to Ian Dayus for organising such a fantastic evening – from attending the food tastings to organising the entertainment and also a big thank you to John and his team at Premier for the organising of the table decorations.
Next up was The Hong Kong football tournament where the lights shone bright, stands were almost full and some Ronaldo wannabes displayed their best football tactics and moves. Not only did we have fantastic attendance but most importantly we raised a shed load of money for the club. A very special thanks to David B. Joe and Sharon Ford from Character Options for all their hard work raising sponsorship. Thank you also to the team at Toymaster for producing the programme and John Langley for all his efforts organising the logistics in Hong Kong for this event.
We were not to know that the Toy fair party was going to be the last event where we would all get to meet up at the Chelsea Harbour Hotel which was well attended and thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Due to the pandemic, with heavy hearts we have had to cancel all further events this year such as The Spring Dinner, Golf Outing and Annual dinner. However, the committee has continued
to hold regular zoom meetings and keep in touch with one another and planning for when we come out the other side and all meet up again.
On a final note, I would just like to thank my fellow committee members for their help, dedication and support during the year and a huge thank you to all our members who continue to go above and beyond to raise funds in these difficult times and a special mention to Steve Wells and Derek Scott for participating in the Great London Bike Ride. I look forward to seeing you all in the flesh hopefully in the not to distant future, in the meantime take care and stay safe.
Go raibh maith agat,
Slán
Panzer
