Large numbers gathering in Central London for lunch in mid-December often face a number of obstacles thrown up by transport unions, bad weather that can both stop the trains and prevent those who live in more remote parts even getting to the station and, more recently, the impact of the recent pandemic where even when travel restrictions were lifted there was a residual nervousness about moving around and being in crowded places.

Against this background 11 December 2023 must be regarded as something of a success for the Old Emanuel Luncheon Club. Sadly the collapse of overhead powerlines between Grantham and Peterborough prevented one of us making it down to the Smoke from Durham and health issues stopped another from travelling on the day but 53 OEs and their guests made it to Doggett’s Coat & Badge at Blackfriars to celebrate another year of Connection, Camaraderie, Charity & Community Sport, the four pillars of membership of the OEA.

Rev Charles Lawrence started proceedings with grace and from there our outgoing chair Yann Maidment steered us through proceedings in his inimitable style. There was a timetable but as is often said, no plan survives contact with the enemy. In this case the enemies were time itself, good food and drink and the seemingly non-stop chat and banter that reached noise levels that could probably be heard at Blackfriars Station.

We were delighted to welcome back the School Bursar, Michael Russell, and the Head of Alumni Relations and Stewardship, Anna van Es, both great friends of the OEA. During a pause between courses Michael gave us a brief but impressive summary of the School’s recent achievements and future plans, taking questions along the way. We later heard from Justin Latta and Simon Parley on the way forward for OERFC playing rugby and the incredible work that has been/ is being done to make the new OERFC HQ at Taunton Avenue the envy of other clubs around. (The simple message was for us all to get along and see it for ourselves – and take in a match or two – if we haven’t already done so.)

At the end of a sumptuous meal, and before many regrouped for more fun in the bar downstairs, Yann brought his year in office to a conclusion with a round of storytelling and the announcement (greeted with rapturous applause) that Andy Robertson will chair the Luncheon Club through 2024. Our thanks are due to Yann for all he has done this year and our best wishes go to Andy as he takes up the reins.