Held on Friday 22 November 2019 at the prestigious RAF Club in London, the annual black tie dinner was one of the best yet with a high turnout of OPs including three tables of recent leavers to add to the vibrancy of the occasion. Hosted by the OP President, Trevor Loten, the dinner was also an opportunity for OPs to meet the new Headmaster, Toby Seth, who was attending the dinner for the first time.

The evening started in The Churchill Bar with a drinks reception before everyone took their places in the Sovereigns’ Room for the dinner. After a brief welcome by the President, Darrell Buttery MBE (01-06) said the OP grace. Speeches by the President and the Headmaster followed the meal. Trevor gave an update on OP activities and said a few introductory words about the Headmaster before handing over. Toby spoke about his career journey to date and of the warm welcome he had received on arriving at Pocklington almost a year ago. He also spoke of his plans for the future of the school based on the Pocklington values of courage, truth and trust. 

After the formalities, guests lingered in the Sovereigns’ Room or moved back to The Churchill Bar, keen to catch up with each other and continue their conversations. 

Reflecting on his first London OP dinner, Toby commented, “It was a fabulous evening, great company and wonderful to hear so many stories from OPs.”

Trevor added, “It was so good to see such a wide range of OPs from 1952 to 2017 at the dinner; the atmosphere was excellent and I hope many more will join us at next year’s event.”

Also amongst the guests were recently retired teachers Dave Galloway (MFL, 99-19) and Martin Butcher (Biology, 79-18) as well as fellow honorary OP, David Dyson (88-18).

Martin commented: “Many thanks for organising a very enjoyable evening. It was good to catch up with so many people.”

Thank you to all who came to the dinner and hope to see you again next year!

The date for next year’s dinner is Friday 20 November 2020. Venue and further details to be confirmed.