The Society of Old Friends’ 2026 Spring Guest Dinner at the RAF Club in London proved to be yet another memorable evening of friendship, tradition and entertainment. With 76 Old Friends and 34 guests in attendance, the occasion also marked a significant milestone – Ian Buckley’s first Guest Dinner as President.
In his welcome address, Buckley reflected on the Society’s 117-year history and its enduring values of fellowship and friendship. The evening’s traditions were proudly observed, including the loyal toast to His Majesty King Charles III and the moving nine o’clock toast to absent friends.
Special tribute was paid to the late Steve Bilton, while the recent passing of Industry Friend Paul Nicholson was also respectfully acknowledged.
Following dinner, longstanding members were also recognised for their loyalty, with milestone celebrations for Gordon Christiansen, Stuart Colley, Stuart Login, Vida Barr-Jones, Tina Russell and Nigel Gunn.
The undoubted highlight of the evening was after-dinner speaker and comedian Rory Bremner, whose wit, impressions and observations kept the room thoroughly entertained throughout, earning him a well-deserved standing ovation.
Proceedings concluded with a lively raffle, supported by Bremner himself, with prizes going to Richard Brimacombe, Diana James, Stacey Bazdar and Suzanne Lyons. Overall, the evening was a superb start to Buckley’s presidency.
The next event is the return of the Brummie Clachan, taking place on 16 July at The Distillery in Birmingham.
