On Thursday 23rd April, OHs gathered once again for one of the most cherished dates in the Society calendar, the annual London Lunch. Held at the RAF Club on Piccadilly, the occasion brought together OHs from across the generations in a spirit of friendship, nostalgia and shared experience. Following drinks in the Churchill Bar, guests made their way upstairs to The Sovereign’s Room to a beautifully presented three-course silver service luncheon, beginning with smoked salmon, followed by roasted rump of lamb, and concluding with summer pudding and clotted cream, all served alongside flowing Club Merlot and Sauvignon wines.

This much-loved event continues to be a highlight of the year, offering a wonderful opportunity for the Haileybury community to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate the enduring bonds formed during school days. As ever, the room was filled with lively conversation, laughter, and the unmistakable sense of belonging that defines the Society’s gatherings.

Our President, Fiona Illingworth (BF 76 & Alb), addressed the gathering, reflecting on the importance of occasions such as this in keeping the Haileybury spirit alive. She also extended sincere thanks to the many OH Sports Clubs & the OH Masonic Lodge, who continue to support and represent the Society so enthusiastically, their presence always adding to the vibrancy and camaraderie of the day. We extend a sincere thanks to Graeme Titmas (H 65) for enabling our use of the RAF club, and the operations staff for providing us with an excellent lunch.

A warm welcome was extended to our guest, Barbara Manning, whose family ties to Haileybury are longstanding. Her late father, Francis Manning, was a much-valued member of staff from 1939 to 1975, serving as Housemaster of Kipling and Allenby and as Head of History.

A special note of appreciation was given to our retiring Chair, Colin Barber (K 61), in recognition of his dedication and service to the Society. His contribution has been invaluable, and we are delighted that he will continue to support the Society in his new role as Consultant to the Trustees.

Fiona also took this opportunity to acknowledge the continued efforts of Doug Everard (BF 73/Chair), Jane Everard (L & 76 & Alb/Society Secretary) and Ashley Locke (Operations Manager), whose commitment behind the scenes ensures the smooth running of events like this and the ongoing success of the Society.

Bringing the lunch to a close, we were delighted to be entertained by the fabulous Roger Curtis (L 76), former Chair of The Magic Circle, whose performance was both captivating and personal. Drawing on his time at Haileybury, Roger seamlessly wove anecdotes into his magic, creating a unique and memorable experience that had guests both amazed and thoroughly entertained. In appreciation, Roger was presented with a bottle of Haileybury Winged Heart Gin as a token of our thanks.

The Annual London Lunch remains a firm favourite in the calendar, a celebration not just of shared history, but of the friendships and connections that continue long after Haileybury. We look forward to welcoming even more OHs to future gatherings.