Brackenber House, my old prep school, was at Cleaver Avenue in Belfast.
I was at Brackenber from about 1971 till 1973 or 74.
Our dinner last night was in the former billiards-room on the top floor.
The Reform Club is undoubtedly one of Belfast's most venerated institutions: heavy oak panelling; thick, opulent carpets; vaulted ceilings; decent plasterwork; leather armchairs.
This is the last remaining Victorian gentlemen's club in the city, though of course it's open to both genders now.
The Club used to have accommodation for members, though I think this ceased in the 1970s.
There were about 58 of us there last night, a good turnout given that the old school was demolished perhaps thirty years ago.
As usual the company was most enjoyable.
It's always great to see Johnny Knox there (he endeavoured to teach me French at Campbell) and Jeff Dudgeon, MBE.
I have never been disappointed yet by the dinners at the Reform Club, and last night was certainly no exception.
We had Gateau of Walter's Cured Salmon, Tomato & Prawns served with home-made horseradish mayonnaise and freshly-baked wheaten-bread.
Incidentally, for the benefit of readers, Walter Ewing is from the celebrated Ewing's fishmongers.
The main course was slow-braised daube of beef with a selection of fresh market vegetables.
Pudding, home-made apple pie with cinnamon cream.
All very traditional and appropriate for the occasion.
I happened to be seated beside Paul Bew (Lord Bew) and Ben Lowry of the Newsletter newspaper.
Our speaker was Mike Brown, MVO, the Commissioner of London Transport.
I had a good chat with him afterwards.
We are all indebted to the unsung organizers of the annual dinner, including Gordon Harvey and Robert Curran.
1 comment :
Sterling night as always! Shame it's only once a year though the proposed spring event sounds promising.
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