London Old Stamfordian Club Dinner 2023

On the evening of Wednesday 8 November 2023, the London Old Stamfordian Club held their 185th annual dinner at the Royal Air Force Club, Piccadilly. The event brought together 64 attendees from across eight decades of Old Stamfordians, ranging from 1957 to 2020. 

The number was a notable increase on last year's 39, and a particularly heartening feature of the evening was the significant number of first-time attendees. Continuing the tradition at the dinner, each newcomer introduced themselves and it was fantastic to see 1969 leavers attending their first dinner, alongside many of our more recent alumni.

Will Phelan, Principal at the Schools, gave an informative and entertaining update on the Schools, including the incredible success of some of our Old Stamfordians. His words resonated with a deep sense of nostalgia, celebrating the rich history of the Schools while also expressing optimism for its future.

As the night unfolded, the RAF Club provided an elegant backdrop for the festivities and the staff ensured that the guests were attended to and well looked after. Our Old Stamfordians enjoyed the splendour of the surroundings, enjoying a sumptuous meal and raising toasts to shared memories. Thanks must go to Tom Wallington (OS 07) for sponsorship of the event so it may continue to be held in such incredible surroundings.

Chair of the London OSC, Ian Brassington (OS 73), was joined on the top table by Will Phelan, Tom Wallington, and Brian Tunnicliffe (OS 57), the eldest Old Stamfordian of the evening. The Loving Cup, crafted by artist Nelson Dawson (OS 1877), was also on display on the top table, although the tradition of passing the cup around the table has been postponed, as in the previous two years, with consideration of potential health issues.

A great time was had by all, celebrating the unique Old Stamfordian bond while welcoming many new faces. Thanks go to Ian Brassington and Neil Paterson (OS 85), Treasurer of the London OSC, for their organisation of the incredible event.

A photo gallery of the evening can be viewed here. Details of the event were published in the Court and Social section of the Daily Telegraph on Thursday 9 November, pictured below.