Myself, the Chief Executive , Deputy Chief Executive and Carol Cutler (Chair of Commercial Services) met with the retiring Ombudsman Tony Redmond to thank him for his support of the Institute. Before I provide any further details on the event it is worth reminding all that the Ombudsman is one of the most revered officers in public administration. When asked by him what my choice of sweet would be : the intention was to request sticky toffee pudding however, being tongue tied I asked for “a stiffy” please. Needless to say I was unable to correct my choice with dignity due to the laughter of my colleagues.
November and December is accompanied by a plethora of functions and I recall the prophetic words of previous presidents who have advised me of their burgeoning waistline due to the social aspect of the role. The first being the Rating Surveyors Association in the Royal Air Force Club in Piccadilly. The event was well supported by many members of the Institute who have membership of the Association and well hosted by the current President John Elcox and many thanks to him for the hospitality extended by the Association.
The following day myself and the Chief Executive were invited to the Association of Chief Estates Surveyors and Property Managers (ACES) in the Fishmongers Hall near London Bridge
The recent Scottish Association’s meeting was in Dumfries and despite the prevailing weather conditions the meeting was well supported. As President it is a traditional to present a “State of the Nation Address” regarding the current status and activities of the Institute. The evening entertainment comprised a Chinese buffet followed by a karaoke or at least that was the plan. Unfortunately, despite the best endeavours of staff, the equipment would not work. However, we did decant to a local hostiliary and myself and the Scottish President (Brian Jeffrey) delivered a magnificent duet to "Daydream Believer" - that is unless you were there and experienced the moment - you may have had a different opinion!
I also attended the London
On the 27th November we attended the East Midlands Association’s dinner dance at the Breadsall Priory Country Club and Hotel in Derby
Unfortunately, the impact of the snow in Scotland
The East Midlands Association’s Annual Christmas lunch was in Oakham in Rutland
The following day 10th December involved a meeting at Headquarters of the Performance Awards Panel to discuss the criteria and categories for the forthcoming year. I am sure the awards will be as highly contested as in previous years and look forward to applications from the authorities of readers of the blog.
…….And finally, my last official event of the current year attendance at the Scottish Committee of Inquiry and in the evening the Scottish Association President’s (Brian Jeffrey's) Christmas Reception. (SEE SCOTLAND PHOTOS BELOW!) The venue was an establishment called the Underground which was described by Fraser Macpherson as a unique venue. He was correct, when you could find the establishment! During the evening Brian was presented with an award in recognition of his tenure on IRRV National Council. I was fortunate that he was allocated to my committee, Education and Membership, and his contributions were invaluable. As Brian has now retired, I wish both him and his wife all the best for their future years together. Don’t forget to keep in touch !!
The year 2010 has flown by at a meteoric pace and I am sure 2011 will be as busy. A very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year to one and all and I look forward to seeing you next year at Institute events.
