Guests were welcomed by our Chair Tim Barnes who later charmingly and skilfully conducted the Auction of Pledges in which guests bid for a selection of outstanding hospitality opportunities which would not ordinarily be available. A presentation of her garden design was made by award winning Juliet Sargeant and we look forward to the realisation of this inspired and inspiring Garden on the land around St George's, a place to reflect, relax and learn. A message of support was read out - from Joanna Lumley, Gurkha Champion whose full endorsement for the project - among others - is on this website.

Our trustee Pamela Franklin - whose original idea for such a garden has blossomed and to whom we all offer great thanks - gave a moving speech concerning the contribution of Commonwealth men and women (including members of her close family) to safeguard the freedom we enjoy today. Sujan Katuwal - together with his wife the creative and operational force behind the "Panas Helping Hands" charity which has done so much good work during the Pandemic - spoke for the Nepali and Gurkha community.

A delicious meal was accompanied by warm tones of melodic jazz sung by the sophisticated Hope Augustus (backed by keyboard and double bass). Tim Barnes gave a closing vote of thanks to the guests. We can look forward to more exciting events in this, the fund raising phase for the Commonwealth & Gurkha Garden project, and then...building and opening the Garden itself!

For some more images see the News item