TMV_WINTER2025SinglePage

The National Association of Toastmasters

TOASTMASTERS’ VOICE TMV WINTER 2025

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TMV 04 Contents 06 10 12 14

Content

Message from the President

Editor introduction and miscellaneous information

Well, I Didn’t Know That - Peter Thompson

Southern Regional Meeting - What You Missed - Michael Myers

Remembering the NAT 60th Anniversary Ted Prior

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A True Story - Geoff Harris

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From the Archive

28. Remembering the NAT 60th Anniversary - Ted Prior

14. Remembering the NAT 60th Anniversary - Ted Prio

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Into the Lions’ Den - A New Toastmaster Survives his First NAT Outing - Archie Tipple

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A Tale od Two Red Jackets - Tim Chandler

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Burns Night Procedure - Rodger Oatley

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A Dream Wedding and a Dream Come True - Peter Thompson

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The Bright Red Jacket and The Quiet Hall - A Storyteller

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Answering The Call: My Journey As A Volentery Paramedic - Robert Persell Cost Rica?..I Don’t Mind If I Do - Geoff Harris

From The Archive - Weddings Old and New Bryn Williams

d or 32. Answering The Call: My Journey As A Volentery 3

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends and Colleagues, This will be my final TMV Christmas Edition President’s Message before I hand over the reins to my esteemed colleague, David Wylie next October 2026 I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to our editor, Richard Mitchell, who works tirelessly throughout the year to produce such fantastic editions of TMV. As has been said many times, TMV is only as good as its contributors, so please continue to support Richard by sending in your articles and stories.

Sadly, this year our Christmas Lunch had to be cancelled. Aside from the Covid years, this is the only time an NAT Christmas

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Lunch hasn’t taken place. I must admit I felt very disheartened that this much loved tradition didn’t happen. I hope this was simply due to diary clashes, other commitments, or the ever increasing cost of living. All I can say is this: we will have a lunch next year. Why not put a little aside from your 2026 jobs so the cost doesn’t come as such a hit? Let’s make it happen for our incoming President.

Throughout the year, we have sadly lost some of our members. Others have moved onto the retired list, and some have faced periods of illness. However, it is also positive to note that we have welcomed new members, and at last count we now have over 40 active members, a tremendous achievement and something

we should all be proud of.

Looking ahead, 2026 will be my final year, and it brings with it an opportunity to make meaningful changes. We want to modernise the Association, explore new training methods, offer further training and refreshers for existing members, and much more. But I cannot do this alone. I need people alongside me.

So, if you want to be part of a new look NAT, please don’t be shy. Reach out and say hello. We will be looking for website builders, social media gurus, mentors for new members, people who want to share experiences, and those keen to get involved behind the scenes. Do you want to be part of the most elite group of Toastmasters in the UK? Then come forward and be counted.

As I draw this message to a close, I want to say a heartfelt thank you.

Thank you to our newly appointed Secretary, Brian Lee. Thank you to our Past Secretary, Michael

Myers, who has been a rock of support to me.

Thank you to Roger Oatley, our Treasurer, who sits firmly behind an Excel spreadsheet ensuring our finances stay on track.

Thank you to our Executive members, Associates, Members, Fellows, Retirees, and anyone else I may have missed.

Thank you to our clients for helping keep our traditions alive.

And thank you to my wife, Nicola, for her unwavering support.

But most of all, thank you for being you.

We are the NAT, and we pave the way for Toastmasters nationally. Let’s keep up the good work, and as we approach 2026, let’s work hard, play hard, and keep the tradition alive.

Have a wonderful festive season and I wish you, your families and your friends a happy, healthy and successful New Year.

President Robert Persell and his wife Nicola 5

Welcome to the Autumn edition of TMV, and the final magazine of 2025—a year marking the 70th anniversary of the NAT. This bumper edition will, I hope, arrive in your inbox before Christmas and provide some enjoyable reading as the year draws to a close.

I would like to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to this edition. Your continued support, time and enthusiasm are very much appreciated and are what make this magazine possible.

Members who are new to the Association may find Roger Oakley’s article on Burns Night procedure particularly informative, especially if you find yourself booked for the 25th of January. For those with a more athletic and adventurous spirit, Geoff Harris’s fascinating account of Costa Rica is sure to inspire, while our delve into the archives reveals some intriguing reflections from the past.

At this time of year, many people choose to make a charitable donation in place of sending Christmas cards. If this is something you are considering and have not yet selected a cause, may I suggest the Holly Gazzard Trust as a worthy charity to support. The trust, which tackles domestic abuse and stalking, was founded in memory of Holly Gazzard by her father, Nick Gazzard OBE, who is also a new member of the NAT. Nick will be contributing an article to the Spring edition of TMV. It only remains for me to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, and productive New Year.

Happy reading!

Dates for the diary Executive Committee Meeting Sunday 18th January 2026 Sunday 12th April 2026 Sunday 12th July 2026 Sunday 6th September 2026

Annual General Meeting Sunday 11th October 2026 - Temple Hall

All contributions to be sent to richard@cambridgetoastmaster.com The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or the NAT. 6

Annual General Meeting This year’s Annual General meeting was held on Sunday 5th October at “The Water Rats Club” in London.

Ten members attended the Meeting. Following the meeting they were joined by two further freinds associated with the Association for a lovely lunch.

SheilaDavies, ChristineAkehurst and VanessaSaward Following our AGM,Robert was delighted to inform the Members that the NAT Exec for the ensuing year is: PRESIDENT Robert Persell VICE PRESIDENT David Wylie HON TREASURER Rodger Oatley HON SECRETARY Brian Lee

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS Nina Vaseer Sharon Jhheent WELFARE OFFICER Tom Reddy TMV EDITOR Richard Mitchell INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS Ted Prior Suzanne Jones 7

EXAM SUCCESSES Congratulations to Rory Windass and Alex Murphy on passing their Members exam

Congratulations to Deepesh Sharma, Nick Gazzard and Archie Tipple on passing their Associate Members exam

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CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

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WELL, I DIDN’T As we get older, and some of us, like myself, are no spring chickens, we can always learn something new, particularly whilst we are working in this fabulous profession.

I am delighted to be the recommended toastmaster for the beautiful Penshurst Place in Kent. This is an amazing historic building in which many great weddings are held. A big advantage for many couples is the nearby Saint John the Baptist Church. This is only a two minute walk from the front door of Penhurst Place. It is ideal, therefore, for couples who want a church wedding combined with a stunning iconic and historic venue without the complications of travel between them.

Front of Penshurst Place I was delighted to be the toastmaster for the wedding of Laura and David at Penshurst Place earlier this year. Having worked there for a great many weddings, it was only this year that I really noticed the sign outside the church. I am sure we have all heard the expression being ‘on the dole’ but how many knew where the expression comes from. Until recently I had no idea.

In mediaeval times we can see that a ‘dole’ was a small portion of food, clothing or money that was placed on the table for the poor on special occasions such as Saint Thomas’ Day

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Dole Table

Dole Sign

T KNOW THAT! on the 21st of December each year, which is just before Christmas.

Penshurst Church

Perhaps at this time of year we can all remember those who may need a little assistance, some support, or just some company as we all celebrate Christmas. I hope that all of my colleagues, friends, and their families, within the NAT have had a joyous Christmas and have had the best of everything, particularly companionship.

And finally, a challenge. I am sure that many members of the NAT learn some really interesting things in our professional working lives. Please let’s share them with our colleagues. If you find it interesting, I am sure many others will.

As a small token of encouragement, a bottle of champagne will be donated by me to the most interesting article which might fit this bill which is published within the next year in the TMV. A small warning however! This will only happen should our excellent editor receive a sufficient number of articles.

With best wishes as always.

Peter Thompson

Laura, David and Peter

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SOUTHERN REGIONA YOU M There was a Southern area regional meeting held at Potters Bar in November. The meeting attracted our current President, Past Presidents, a couple of Fellows plus Associates and even a future Member. The atmosphere was relaxed, without any formalities. In other words an ideal opportunity to discuss NAT matters, get advice and generally have a natter about our common interests.

I started the ball rolling by asking about the ideal length of a pitching email. After a wedding fair I like to get a follow-up email to the couples I met but I was concerned that my very comprehensive email at around 650 words may not be read in full. If couples are reading their email on a mobile phone this is definitely too long. Someone suggested using Chat GPT to summarise it which I now have done, cutting it down by half. I’ll definitely be using the shorter length in the future What else did we talk about? Wedding Fairs was the first to come up for discussion. Are they worth attending? Should you pay or try for a free slot? Where is the best position – by the entrance or in with all the other exhibitors? Some of those at this regional meeting never attend a wedding fair, others go to quite a few. The point was made that organisers need a good spread of exhibitors, as well as attracting as many couples as possible. Worth playing on if your needs are minimal and you can offer yourself to make announcements on the day.

Where is the best place to change for a job? A few of us travelled in their uniform if the distance is not too far, but the majority get changed at the venue. All were agreed that it was best to ask for a room rather than get changed in a toilet.

There was a lot of talk about uniforms covering patent leather shoes, double striped

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AL MEETING – WHAT MISSED. trousers, bow ties and starching. Why do we wear what we do and how best to show it off! A really smart uniform creates a wonderful first impression and it was clear that all of those experienced Toastmasters present hold this to be very true.

Photographers – friend or foe? We discussed how best to work with them and how to control them, should we need to. Worth remembering that their work can last a long time, but also important to be on top of, and at ease with, what they’re doing. Quite a long discussion here, with some photographers’ ears definitely burning!

We talked about where it is best to make announcements before a civil ceremony, with some preferring the bar beforehand and some when guests are seated.

Finally how do we announce the cutting of the cake? Tips and suggestions were talked about and passed on.

Personally I find these in-person sessions invaluable. Nobody holds back and a lot of personal experiences are shared. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend the next time a meeting is in or near your area.

Regional meetings are organised by Geoff Harris for the North/Midlands area and Simon Shirley for the South. With such a spread of membership locations there is no ideal venue, but if you’d like to propose one somewhere other than where we usually meet then Geoff and Simon would be delighted to hear from you!

See you at the next one.

Michael Myers

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REMEMBERING THE NA When our President, Robert Persell, reminded us that we would be celebrating our 70th Anniversary I was taken back to when we celebrated our 60th anniversary back in 2015! Robert is very happy for me to share these memories.

The NAT celebrated the Diamond Anniversary with a glittering banquet held at the magnificent and historic Drapers’ Hall, home of the Worshipful Company of Drapers’, in the heart of the City of London.

Ian Low, Sir Andrew Parmley and Ted Prior

Our guest speaker that evening was The Rev. Cannon David Parrot, the Rector of St. Lawrence Jewry next Guildhall which is the official Church of the Lord Mayor of London.

Looking back over the many photographs taken brought back special memories of a wonderful evening. Some 160 guests including past NAT Presidents, their guests, the Executive Chairman of the Northern Guild of Toastmasters, the Hon. Secretary of the Society of London Toastmasters, enjoyed a fabulous evening.

Several of our Members are Beadles for City Livery Companies. Amongst our guests were Past Masters of Livery Companies, Clerks ( CEO’s) whose presence enhanced the evening.

Alderman and Sheriff Sir Andrew Parmley graciously attended whilst Sheriff of the City of London. Sir Andrew would become the 689th Lord Mayor of London 2016/17.

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David held a post as Honorary Chaplain to a number of Livery Companies and I knew him to be a witty and interesting speaker.

2nd Vice-President Ian Low (sadly no longer with us) acted as our Toastmaster that evening. In his speech David memorably stated ‘aim high – hit Low!’ He knew Ian very well!

Group Shot

Throughout the evening we were entertained by the London Banqueting Ensemble with two memorable pieces – a Sea Shanty Melody which had everyone tapping the table tops in unison! Their final

AT 60TH ANNIVERSARY contribution was the amazing rendition of the Post Horn Gallop. Two classically trained singers from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama provided a special musical interlude before the speeches.

of a City Banquet including Grace, Sung Grace and the Ceremony of the Loving Cup and the Loyal Toasts Past-President, then Vice President, Peter Thompson proposed the toast to the Lord Mayor, the Corporation of the City of London and Sheriffs. During the President’s speech a cheque, NAT donation, was presented to the Sheriff for the Lord Mayor’s appeal which was gratefully received.

At the conclusion of the meal, we were able to enjoy a Stirrup Cup (after bar) until we were invited to leave!

Post Horn Gallop

For those who wished they were able to visit the and enjoy a tour of the Mansion House, The tour encompassed all the public areas as well as the Lord Mayor’s private rooms.

The Mansion House has many valuable Loving Cups, goblets and historic gold and silver items. These are safely stored in secure vaults which we were able to view.

John Davies, Keeper of the Hall at the time, was an interesting and humorous guide enhancing the tour!

Loving Cup Ted Prior and Sir Andrew Parmley

It was an amazing evening and much enjoyed and could not have been held without of the support of the Executive.

Peter Thompson, Ted Prior and Ian Low

Special thanks to the late Live Vice President Bryn Williams, who provided a ‘Brief History of the NAT or why we are the finest Toastmaster Organisation in the Country.’ To Pav - Past President - who was kind enough to produce this history in booklet form so that each guest was able to take a copy home with them.

The Banquet followed the Running Order

The late Past President Jevan Morris looked

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after publicity and created a power point presentation of photographs supplied by members to view before and after dinner.

accounts. I received great support from many, the late Past President Richard Heywood (IPP at the time), Paul Deacon, Steve Warwick and Neil Hunt all Past Presidents. If I have overlooked anyone then please forgive me as time can dim the memory!

The photographs were taken by Gerald Sharp Photography and are a lovely reminder of the evening.

Ted Prior Past President

The Heyoods and Dorns

Past Presidents Peter Thompson, the late.

Ian Low, the late Past President Peter Craft and Hon. Treasurer looking after the

Group Shot

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Loving Cup

Sharing the Loving Cup

Drapers’ Hall Table Setting

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A True Story.

This really is a true story.

I notice from the reports of the Southern Social (well done Simon) that there was some discussion of wedding shows, and this prompted this particular memory to surface and I feel it highlights a potential danger lurking for all of us unwary Toastmasters.

Some years ago I was standing at an Indian wedding show in Leicester.

There I was, suited and booted, attempting to sell my services. It had been a reasonable day I felt, of course though you can never tell until you have a signature and a booking fee.

At one point I noticed three elderly Indian aunties approaching me. They probably had a combined age of around two hundred and eighty. They asked me what I was doing; I explained about Toastmastering and the role I played in an Indian wedding day. They seemed impressed.

Now here comes the crunch.

The one with the tooth asked me how much I charged. I told them my fees.

She then turned to her friend, shouted “Pay him”, grabbed my arm and started to pull me out.

It is an absolutely true story. Let it be a lesson to you all about the left-field dangers that can be encountered at even the most well-organised wedding shows.

Still, since many people are now concerned about a perceived lack of work………

Geoff Harris 18

From the Archive Section taken from your voice of the TMV 2007.

I was interested to see the note on the talk by Anita Patel at the last quarterly meeting. You may remember that during Anita Patel‘s talk I mentioned that I have found a few words of Urdu to be particularly useful at Asian weddings. They are use help helps to make the guests feel that I have an interest in their culture. They often cause a certain amount of amusement and helped to break down any barriers. These are very common words and are understood all over the Indian continent.

They are as follows • • • •

Jildy. jildy = quickly, quickly Sharbash = well done Shukria = thank you Tik-hai = OK (pronounced ‘teekay’)

and if you really want to impressed, when testing the PA equipment, count from 1 to 10 as follows: Ek, do, teen, char, panch, chay, sart, art, noon, das!

Berty Bowes

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Into the Lions’ Den: A New To NAT O Well, here’s a story I didn’t expect to be writing—an article from a prospective new member of the NAT, no less. Yet here we are, knee-deep in the thick of it.

On Monday 17 November, Rory, Alex and I trekked to Finsbury Park for a mock exam with the ever-composed Paul Deacon and the quietly formidable Howard Robbins, all in preparation for the real thing on Thursday 20 November. Rory and Alex are marching boldly toward full membership, while I, the rookie in the ranks, am merely hoping to become an Associate Member. But that’s not really the point of this tale. What came after the mock exam is where things get interesting.

Rory and I found ourselves invited to a social gathering at The Old Manor in Potters Bar. Up to this point, I’d only met Howard and Simon, so the impending sea of new faces was already threatening my overworked brain. Thankfully, they didn’t arrive all at once— had they done so, I might’ve felt like a contestant on a particularly chaotic round of The Generation Game.

First through the door was the intriguingly named Michael Myers—who was very quick to assure us he was neither the Hollywood actor nor the masked menace from those Halloween films. The jury is still out. Ted followed, then Simon, and soon Howard was whispering covertly with staff to secure a private dining area—an act that seemed to delight Mr Myers almost as much as the thought of not being mistaken for a serial killer.

By this time, most had arrived, save for Christine Akehurst and our esteemed leader, Robert, who appeared to be mysteriously detained elsewhere.

As an outsider looking in, the camaraderie was a delight to witness. There’s a unique Toastmaster energy—a blend of good-natured authority and gentle mischief—that made me feel oddly at home. The conversation flowed freely until Paul finally called the room to order… for drinks, naturally.

I set about introducing myself to those I’d only heard rumours about. Names finally gained faces, and before long the discussion turned to the art of Toastmastering itself. What quickly became clear is that there is no single “correct” way to do this job, which is perhaps the best reassurance a newcomer could ask for. Should I introduce myself in the bar beforehand using the “Shouty Man” approach? Should I instruct the Groom on which side of the Bride he belongs at the top table? And is it really acceptable to call guests into the ceremony room just as they’ve paid for their pints? These are the burning questions that keep a gentleman Toastmaster awake at night.

But one thing is certain: as long as the clients have a wonderful day, I can sign my real name. Otherwise, I’m Howard Robbins.

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Toastmaster Survives His First Outing What surprised me most was how much I had to offer the Association. Having been a wedding photographer for 13 years—and having only ever encountered two Toastmasters in that time—I was intrigued to learn just how fond you all are of us photographers and our suspiciously flexible definition of “five minutes.” Joking aside, my years behind the lens have given me insights into wedding dynamics that may prove unexpectedly useful in this new role.

As for The Old Manor itself, it’s a wonderfully traditional pub with staff who couldn’t have been more accommodating. The food vanished from plates with indecent speed, which is always a good sign. I suspect the NAT will darken its doors again soon.

For now, though, I must retreat to fine-tune my preparation for Thursday’s exam. With any luck, by the time you read this I’ll be proudly sporting my Collarette and planning my allimportant publicity photoshoot.

Until we gavel again…

Archie Tipple The Gentleman Toastmaster Editor note: You’ll be delighted to know that Archie passed his Associate Exam and is now a member of the NAT.

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A Tale of Two If any one had said to me when I was Managing Director of our Insurance Broking business that I would become a Professional Santa in my semi retirement journey I would have laughed at them!

I could have certainly have understood being a Toastmaster as for many years I had given presentations and speeches, so was accustomed to public speaking and mixing with all kinds of people.

So how did it happen? After selling our businesses both my wife Claire and I decided we would take early retirement. We both love travelling so we planned a number of trips including a tour of Australia. This made a good start but after that although we still had further holidays booked I started to get slightly bored. Claire on the other hand took to retirement like a duck to water!

The difference was lots of her friends were available in the day whereas most of mine were still working and unavailable for any weekday meet ups. Luckily that has now changed now I am older.

I stumbled across an advert for a Santa position at our local Center Parcs and this was where my journey began.

I was lucky enough to be called for interview and I fully admit I was totally unprepared. I remember one of the interview questions was name Santas reindeer! I think I remembered the names of only three or four. We also did some role play which is where I think I secured my position.

Most of my friends say I can talk for England so it was fairly easy for me to put on a Santa voice and win over the interviewers. I was delighted if a little surprised when my offer letter dropped through the door a few days 22

later offering me the position.

On 31st October 2015 I completed my induction, followed by Santa training the following day by a very experienced Santa from one of the other Center Parcs Villages. His knowledge was invaluable and I still use much of it every season. I have been very lucky to work with some very talented, experienced Santas that have been more than happy to pass on their knowledge and expertise. One such gentleman suggested I should approach Santa agencies and recommended me to two such organisations. This now provides a lot of events every year.

Tim and his helpers Things also changed dramatically in 2020 when COVID hit. Myself and my son Dom who many of you know is a professional Saxophone player decided to use it as a business opportunity. Grottos were closed and as you’ll remember any events indoors were prohibited. Children still wanted a visit from Santa so we offered a doorstep visit from either Santa on his own or with the addition of a six foot four Elf playing Sax!

o Red Jackets.

We were totally blown away by the response and we spent those Christmases travelling around Beds, Bucks, Herts and Northants bringing joy in a difficult time.

and have allowed me to meet some lovely people. If you can get paid for bringing happiness and enjoyment then in my opinion you are very fortunate.

Moving on to 2025 my eleventh season.

Santa season, starting late October, is by far my busiest time of the year. Last year I saw in excess of 3000 children and adults in a variety of venues, homes and events.

My business has expanded as many events are now booked direct in addition to agency work and of course a variety of events at Center Parcs. I now provide the Santa Training for new starters at Centre Parcs Woburn Forest and due to the volume of work I have trained another Santa who works for me when I am already booked.

The doorstep visits have become home visits since COVID and Santa and Sax is still very popular.

Tim Chandler

I am looking forward to another busy season with lots of variety of events and once again bringing the Christmas magic!

I count my self very fortunate that I have found two fantastic interests both involving the red jacket that bring me great pleasure 23

BURNS NIGHT

The following is the suggested procedure for a Burns Night Celebration, which is held on 25th January (or closest available date).

6.

On larger functions, there is always a top table entry led by the Toastmaster and the Piper. The usual line up as for other functions is appropriate.

The Toastmaster arrives as usual in good time to check all is in order for the proceedings to ensure the success of the evening.

7.

On some occasions, The President or Chairman of the evening is addressed as My Laird (usually found in Scotland). This is a matter for the organizing secretary to inform the Toastmaster- please check.

1.

Check that there is sufficient room for the Piper and Procession to walk round the table, remembering that the pipes ‘stand away’ from the Piper’s shoulder.

2.

A Table no smaller than 2’6” square is required, clothed up and placed in front of, or adjacent to the Top Table within good view of all the guests.

3.

There should be 6 small glasses on a small salver on the edge of the table and a white napkin.

4.

It may be that the assembled guests may also have a small dram of Scotch Whisky ready to Toast The Haggis or they may have table wine- please check.

5.

The Piper usually pipes the assembled company in for dinner if it is only a small party and no top table entry.

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8.

If there is no top table entry, the following preamble is appropriate: “Mr. President/Chairman, (Honoured and Distinguished Guests), Ladies and Gentlemen would you kindly take your places for the Feast to The Immortal Memory”.

9.

If there is a top table entry: “Ladies and Gentlemen, would you kindly take your places for the Feast to The Immortal Memory” and when everyone is in position the following announcement. “Ladies and Gentlemen, be pleased to receive The President/Chairman together with your Principal Guests. (You decide if you are going to name them ) 10. “Pray Silence for Grace before the Feast to The Immortal Memory by………”

T PROCEDURE

The ‘Selkirk Grace: Some hae meat and canna eat And some wad eat that want it But we hae meat and we can eat Sae let The Lord be Thank It! 11.

The Piper takes his exit playing.

12. After the course preceding The Haggis has been cleared, the most important part of the evening now takes place. The entrance and parade of the Haggis round the room.

The Toastmaster announces: “ Mr.President/Mr.Chairman, (Honoured and Distinguished Guests), Ladies and Gentlemen, would you kindly remain seated and be pleased to receive The Great Chieftain of The Pudding RaceTHE HAGGIS” The following is the suggested Procession: It is for the Toastmaster to determine with the President/Chairman/Laird the procedure they desire. a. The Toastmaster to guide via the planned precession route b. The Piper

c. The Chef with The Haggis d. The Head Waiter with 2 bottles of Single Malt Whisky crossed over his head. e. The President/Chairman/Laird – (if desired) f The Poet or Orator.

13. On arrival at the small table. a. The Toastmaster stand to one side of the table, the piper stands the other side. b. The Chef places the Salver with The Haggis on it onto the table and stands back to one side. c. The Head Waiter places the Whisky near to the glasses and stands back to the other side. d. The Poet/Orator stands in front of the Haggis. e. The Chairman/President/Laird stands behind and to the right of the Poet/ Orator.

The Piper finishes playing.

14. The Poet/Orator then recites “The Ode to The Haggis”. He may well also give a little historical talk prior to the Poem. At the end of the Poem he cuts and slashes “The Great Chieftain of the Pudding Race” with his Ceremonial dagger (Skean Dhu).

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THE ODE TO THE HAGGIS Fair fa’ your honest,sonsie face, Great Chieftain o’ the Pudding Race!

Aboon then a’ ye tak your place, Painch,tripe or thairm: Weel are ye wordy of a Grace As Lang’s my arm.

The groaning trencher there ye fill, You hurdies like a distant hill, Your pin wad help to mend the mill In time o’need, While thro your pores the dews distil Like amber bead.

His knife see Rustic-labour dight, An’cut you up wi’ ready slight, Trenching your gushing entrails bright Like onie ditch; And the,O what a glorious sight, Warm-reekin,rich.

Then,horn for horn they stretch an’ strive Deil tak the hindmost,on the drive Till a’ their weel-swall’d kytes believe Are bent like drums Then auld Guidman, maist like to rive, Bethankit hums.

Is there that owre his French ragout, Or olio that wad staw a sow, Or fricassee wad mak her spew Wi’ perfect scooner, Looks down wi’ sneering, scornfu’ view On sic a dinner?

Poor devil! See him owre his trash, As feckless as a wither’d rash His spindle shank a guid whip-lash, His nieve a nit; Thro’ bluidy flood or field to dash, O how unfit.

But mark the rustic,haggis-fed,

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The trembling earth resounds his tread, Clap in his walie nieve a blade, He’ll make it whissle; An’ legs, an’arms, an’ heads will sneed, Like taps o’thrissle.

Ye Pow’rs wha mak mankind you care, And dish them out their bill o’fare, Auld Scotland wants naw skinking ware That jaups in luggies; But if ye wish her gratefu’ pray’r, Gie her a Haggis! ****** 15. There are 2 ways in which the toast to The Haggis can be done and this depends on the function organizer as to how he/she wishes it, also the Poet/ Orator has his way of making the toast.

Whichever way it is to be done - The Toastmaster must know. (a) When all the participants of the Procession are in their places, the Poet/ Orator pours a dram of Scotch into the six glasses and addresses the Company thus: “To the Piper and The Haggis” – to which all drink repeating the Toast (b) The Poet/Orator recites the Ode and when he has finished, he nods to the Chairman/President who will call out- “Is the Chieftain slain?” The Poet/ Orator replies,”Mr.Chairman,President, I declare the Great Chieftain of the Pudding Race well and truly slain”.

16. The diners applaud and all members of the procession take a glass of whisky poured by the Poet/Orator. Either he or the Chairman/President invites them to drink a Toast and says: “To The Haggis!”

Toast to the Immortal Memory’ 22. The Toast is “The Immortal Memory” 23. In some cases there may be a speech to follow – ‘The Appreciation’. This is not a response to the former Toast. A preamble would be “Pray Silence for.” (can you recognize me in my catering days !!)

A traditional reply by the Diners/ Procession would be “Slarg i var “ (Good Health). The Scotch is the downed in one go. The Haggis taken out by the Chef, the bottles of Scotch are taken away and The Haggis is then served with mashed neeps and tatties.

17.

The Haggis is served as either an intermediate course or as a main course.

If requested the Piper will play while the course is eaten. (It is traditional to have a dessert course with raspberries in some form or another).

18. The Piper may finish after the Haggis has been served and The Toastmaster may request the assembled company to show their appreciation to him. He then pipes himself out.

19. The Loyal Toast is taken in the usual manner followed by coffee.

20. The next Toast is to ‘The Immortal Memory’

24. The next Toast is to ‘The Lasses’ – “Pray Silence for.” There may be a presentation of flowers or other - please check.

25. Response to ‘The Lasses’ (nearly always by a lady )– “Pray Silence for……”

26. There may then be a speech by the guest of honour.” Pray silence for...”

27. It is quite usual to conclude with some words or a poem of Robert Burns. Check to see who will be doing this. “Pray silence for …..”

28. The Official part of the evening comes to an end and it may be that entertainment or Scottish Dancing begins.

29. If the Piper stays, he will usually play at some stage during the evening as requested by the Chairman/President.

30. The Toastmaster either finishes at this stage or if it has been requested, he will stay to do any further announcing such as band breaks etc finishing with Auld Lang Syne.

By Rodger Oatley

21. A full preamble is required: Mr. President/Chairman, Honoured and Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Pray Silence for……………… (alter to suit your circumstance) but never, ever say.’ who will propose the

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A DREAM WEDDIN COME Early in my toastmaster career I was lucky enough to work at a fabulous corporate event at the Science Museum. I have also been privileged to work at the Victoria and Albert Museum many times for both weddings and corporate events.

The Natural History Museum remained elusive and a personal ambition, which I have held for many years. Having worked for the bride’s sister at another superb venue the Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich, I was contacted by the bride’s father who asked me to act as the toastmaster for this wedding at my dream venue. Of course I jumped at the chance!

sneak in an ice cream whilst waiting for it all to start)

Hintsy hall look down

The team there are fabulous but it is quite an undertaking to transform the museum from a busy world-leading tourist attraction, in a relatively short time, into a magical and stylish event venue. When the hall was ready for the guests to take their seats, there was a small delay because the Bride and Bridegroom wanted to rehearse their entrance down the grand staircase a number of times.

Having met the couple and discussed all the details of their very special day I arrived at the museum very early. One of the first people I met was a manager from the Indian catering company. Together with him, I went through all the timings and agreed everything that should be happening.

The wedding ceremony was to be held in the grounds of the museum underneath the iconic dinosaur skeleton. Everything went incredibly smoothly with the ceremony, and the couple went off with the photographers for their couple shots inside the museum.

Drinks and canapés followed in the grounds.

Thankfully the weather was mercifully kind (So much so that earlier I had managed to

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Then came the time to call the guests in to the Hintze Hall for the meal. However, by that time, everybody was quite hungry and were only too anxious to take their seats and that did not take long.

NG AND A DREAM TRUE. When we were ready for me to announce the grand entrance of the newlyweds they were nowhere to be found. A rather undignified chase around the upper galleries of the museum soon found them and they were taken to the top of the grand staircase. At that stage the venue stylist decided that she must brief them in great detail about where they could find the cake knife to cut the wedding cake what part of the cake to cut and how to do it. Very diplomatically, or perhaps not, I assured her that I could manage everything that was needed and that we must get on.

That day really was worth the wait and reminded me once again how lucky we are to be in this fabulous profession. Of course, it was all made much easier by working with some excellent wedding professionals at the top of their game, in particular Medhus Events and my very good friends the photographers Jeff and Sarah Oliver.

Jeff Oliver

My only remaining question is where to go to from there!

Peter Thompson Past President.

As sometimes happens, the original plans for the timings of the speeches during the meal went completely out of the window.

Muslim prayer times had to be considered and, in addition, some of those making speeches insisted that the order of the speeches be rearranged. These were to be held in between the courses of the meal.

Together with the senior catering manager and the father of the bride, who was the host of the event, changes were made which nobody in the audience noticed and the meal and speeches went swimmingly.

Jmaan, Matthew and Peter

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THE BRIGHT JAC QUIET Many years ago, in a land not so different from our own, there lived a group of wise professionals known as the Stat Maestros. Each worked alone, traveling from town to town, excelling at organising, advising, guiding, and helping their clients make sense of events.

Their reputations were strong, and their pride was modest but well earned.

One Stat Maestro, eager to stand out in the crowded marketplace, donned a bright jacket. It caught the eye and sparked conversation. Soon, others noticed not only the jacket, but the idea behind it: distinction mattered, but so did connection.

Before long, several Stat Maestros gathered and reasoned that together they could be even stronger. United, they could share wisdom, support one another, and raise the quality of their craft. And so, they formed the Stat Maestros’ Association.

The Association drew up careful plans. Standards were set high, for the Maestros believed their clients deserved nothing less than excellence. But they also remembered a simple truth: all work and no play makes a Stat Maestros very dull. So they created gatherings—a grand ball, lively dances, shared meals filled with laughter, and moments to drink, eat, and be merry.

At first, the halls were full. The music was loud, the debates spirited, and the friendships deep. The Association flourished.

Yet as time passed, a quiet apathy crept in. Some thought, “Someone else will organise it.”

Others muttered, “I won’t bother this time.” And a few shrugged, saying, “I’m alright, Jack.”

Attendance thinned. Small parties faded away. Main events moved to distant screens, and cherished traditions were cancelled altogether. The bright halls grew quiet. A darkness

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CKET AND THE HALL settled over the Stat Maestros’ Association, and the once-mighty group seemed to be slowly falling apart.

The Maestros gathered one last time and asked themselves: Could this decay be reversed?

An elder Maestro stood and spoke: “We built this not just on expertise, but on shared responsibility. Excellence brought us together, but community kept us strong. When we stopped showing up, the Association did not fail us—we failed it.”

Ashamed but hopeful, the Stat Maestros remembered why they had come together in the first place. One by one, they chose to act again: to organise, to attend, to contribute—not because someone else would, but because they should.

The halls slowly filled once more. The music returned, softer at first, but growing stronger.

The bright jacket appeared again—not as a symbol of standing apart, but as a reminder to stand together.

And so, the moral of the tale is this: A community thrives not on talent alone, but on participation. When everyone waits for someone else, even the greatest association will fade. But when each person takes responsibility, the light returns.

A Storyteller

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Answering the Call: My Param When that phone rings, I never quite know what I am about to walk into. It could be someone who has fallen and cannot get up, a child struggling to breathe, or a person whose heart has suddenly stopped beating. Whatever the situation, one thing always remains constant: I know I am going to give everything I have to help.

often arriving within six minutes of a call being made. In 2024 we achieved an average response time of 5.78 minutes!

We deal with everything from minor injuries such as falls, cuts, or fainting, to the most serious incidents including heart attacks, cardiac arrests, or major trauma. Sometimes it is a frightened parent calling because their child is unwell; other times it is a passerby who has witnessed something critical.

Each call is different, but they all have one thing in common: someone is in need, and we are there to help.

Training and Dedication

That is the life of a voluntary paramedic with Hatzola Herts Community Emergency Service.

We are a team of around forty volunteers from all walks of life who drop whatever we are doing the moment an emergency call comes in.

Whether we are at work, at home with family, or asleep in the middle of the night, we respond because we care about our community.

A Community on Call Hatzola Herts is more than an emergency service; it is a family. We operate twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, providing rapid medical response to people in our local area,

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I am qualified as a FREC 4 (First Response Emergency Care Level 4) paramedic, which means I am trained to deliver advanced pre hospital emergency care. The training is intensive, covering trauma management, airway control, medication use, and life support, but it is also deeply rewarding. It gives me the tools and confidence to make a real difference in those critical minutes before an ambulance arrives.

y journey as a Voluntary medic.

However, no amount of training can prepare you for the emotional side of the work. Walking into someone’s home at one of the worst moments of their life, you are not just treating a patient.

You are supporting a family, calming fear, and often being the reassuring voice that tells them everything is going to be all right.

them. Every decision, every turn, and every second matters. That combination of discipline and determination is one of the most powerful parts of the job, and one that never loses its impact.

Working Alongside the NHS Our work does not replace the NHS Ambulance Service; it complements it. The NHS is under immense pressure, and we are proud to support and work alongside them closely. By arriving quickly and starting treatment immediately, we can stabilise patients and gather vital information, helping NHS crews when they take over, or in the event of an extreme emergency, transporting the patient to hospital in one of our three fully equipped ambulances.

That collaboration saves time, saves resources, and most importantly, saves lives. Every call we attend is one less person left waiting in fear.

The Adrenaline of the Drive There is no denying that responding to an emergency under blue lights brings an incredible rush of adrenaline. The moment the call comes through, every sense sharpens. The roads seem to open up as you navigate with precision and focus, the sirens clearing the way ahead. It is not about the thrill of speed; it is about urgency, responsibility, and control.

You are acutely aware that someone’s life may depend on how quickly and safely you reach

Moments That Stay With You Some moments never leave you. I have been first on the scene at cardiac arrests where quick action and teamwork have brought someone back from the brink. I have sat with elderly patients who were scared and alone, holding their hand until family arrived. I have seen tears of relief when a mother realises her child is going to be all right.

Those moments remind me why I do this.

Volunteering takes time, energy, and emotional strength, but the reward is immeasurable. To know that your actions, your training, your calmness, and your presence might have

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changed the course of someone’s life is something few experiences can match.

W

The Power of Community

Pe T di

What makes Hatzola Herts special is the spirit of togetherness. We all volunteer because we care about where we live and the people around us. We are not just responding to emergencies; we are building trust, strengthening community bonds, and showing that compassion still drives people to act.

Every call is a reminder that community truly matters. In a world where so much feels fast paced and disconnected, Hatzola brings people back to what is important: helping one another.

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B I co

So ev

Why I Keep Going

People often ask how I find the time to do this, or how I cope with the emotional toll.

The answer is simple: I could not stop even if I wanted to. Once you have seen how much ifference you can make, it becomes part of who you are.

Being a voluntary paramedic with Hatzola Herts is not just something I do; it is something am. It is about serving others, being there when it truly matters, and giving back to the ommunity that I am proud to call home.

o when that phone rings, day or night, I will be ready. Because every second counts, and very life matters.

Robert Persell NAT President / Emergency Responder

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Costa …………..I don At the end of November Gayna and I did a bucket list trip. We went to Costa Rica. One of our shared loves over the past forty or so years has been for wildlife and adventure. We have been on safari in Africa a couple of times, we have been to the Amazon, and Costa Rica was the logical next step.

It was brilliant.

The people are lovely, the country is beautiful, the wildlife is astonishing.

There is just one flight a day from the UK to Costa Rica, and it is from Gatwick. The eleven hour flight was fine and we arrived at San Jose airport at rush hour. Our booked car was there to pick us up and we had a journey of over an hour to cover the relatively short distance to our first night apartment.

Next morning, we were up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed to catch our shuttle to La Fortuna, where the holiday would really begin.

Getting around in Costa Rica is quite easy.

You always have the option of car hire (you are advised to hire a 4x4); there is a rail system, although this is much reduced since the decline of the banana industry, a good bus system, light aircraft, or the option we chose, the bookable shuttles. A great system all bookable from home through Get Your Guide.

La Fortuna is on the Caribbean side of the country and is home to the iconic Arenal volcano. Our digs had a wonderful view of the volcano from the balcony. Around Arenal is tropical rain forest. We did get wet quite a lot, but at least it was warm. Talking of wet, one of the most exciting parts of the holiday was the morning spent white water rafting.

Astonishingly good fun and brilliantly well organised.

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We walked a fair way up the volcano and had a couple of guided walks, one daytime and one nighttime looking for varieties of wildlife, both flora and fauna, and a particularly memorable afternoon was spent in a series of very hot thermal pools.

It is a crazy thing, that even though the island is teeming with wildlife, unless you have a guide who knows where to look you will miss most of it. It tends to spend most of its time trying to avoid humans. We saw frogs. Loads of frogs.

Every different colour and size of frog. We saw iguanas, sloths, spiders, snakes, vultures, flycatchers, parrots, macaws, humming birds and monkeys. At one point I saw a bird.

“Gayna, Gayna, come quick there’s a black

Rica? n’t mind if I do! bird carrying a banana.” It was a toucan.

After three nights in La Fortuna it was time to move on. Our next stop was to a town in the cloud forest called Monte Verde. It was something of an adventure to get there, being picked up by a jeep, taken to a pier to cross a huge lake to get into another jeep to take us up into hills.

Here at Monte Verde, we stayed for a couple of nights in a tree house. All very exciting and very comfortable, even if a little snug. Whilst sitting on the balcony one evening we looked down and saw a white-nosed coatis. No, I didn’t know what it was either.

but all well worth it. A fabulous experience. It was impossible to count the different shades of green we saw.

Also, whilst here we went on the (apparently) famous forest canopy walk. It was breathtaking.

A path around three miles or so long at tree top height punctuated by a dozen or so wonderfully graceful suspension bridges, taking you across deep gorges. Some of the bridges were nearly a hundred yards long and afforded some wonderful views into and across the forest.

A Coatis We were awakened each morning by the sound of howler monkeys issuing their version of the dawn chorus.

Whilst here we went zip-lining over and through the forest canopy. We went on something like 16 different lines that completed a circuit. Some of the tramping between the line start points made me puff,

So after two nights in our tree house, we were on the move again with another shuttle. A four hour trip across the spine of the country to our final destination and three nights at a gorgeous hotel in Manuel Antonio, on the

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Pacific coast.

The big attraction here is the national park.

We were booked in here with a guide on day two, so what to do on day 1? I know, quadbiking! What a hoot. Two hours chasing this crazy Costa Rican around the tracks through the plantations and the forest, seeking out the muddiest routes he could find.

Our last complete day was spent in the national park. The weather was sublime, our guide brilliant the amount of wildlife overwhelming.

The park is a combination of tropical rainforest and mangrove, so we added snakes and crabs to the tick list. Once again having a guide was invaluable. The day in the National Park finished with a swim in the very warm Pacific Ocean from a secluded and beautiful beach.

If you don’t mind a bit of exercise and have a curiosity for the natural world then Costa Rica is the place to go, it really is. The people are fabulous, the country is beautiful.

No-one will ever go to Costa Rica for its cuisine, rice and beans feature prominently, but restaurants abound. Prices for restaurant meals are on a par with pub meals here, the bonus is that nearly all the restaurants are open balcony style and there really is something 38

a little special about eating a meal whilst a mother sloth is feeding her baby hanging in a tree less than thirty feet away.

Should you be considering a trip then choose your time carefully. We went at the end of the rainy season during the week that high season was about to start. For us it was perfect. We didn’t mind getting wet. We knew what was coming and packed accordingly, and we did get wet, especially on the Caribbean side of the country. Apparently, it was about to get very, very busy and many of the activities, national parks etc. get very booked up.

We organised practically everything ourselves using an app. called “Get Your Guide”. They are absolutely brilliant.

Everything we booked through them like all our transport and activities all worked perfectly. They are not specific to Costa Rica. We have used them for holiday activities in many locations.

The other thing we did for the first time was use an E-sim supplied by a company called Ubigi. For $8 I had the use of 3gb of data for my ‘phone which meant I didn’t have to pay exorbitant network roaming charges and I was able to keep in touch easily with things at home.

Yes, a great holiday. So where next? Not really sure, although Nina’s fabulous account of her Asian holidays a couple of TMVs ago has us thinking.

Arenal Volcano

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From the Weddings o

I was recently chastised by our excellent secretary, Peter, for what was considered an injudicious email erroneously sent REPLY ALL to the membership. It concerned a possible wedding engagement the following Saturday and my remarks were considered cavalier and in discreet. I accept the rebuke but I’m totally unrepentant about the content - I meant every word. But it sent me thinking about my feelings on Christian Weddings today and the massive and quantum changes in their format since I began my career. I have said that I really do not enjoy Saturday (and in the same cases nowadays Friday) weddings and prefer not to accept them. But before I enter a long diatribe on the subject, I’m very pleased to acknowledge that a majority of our members depend very largely for their Toastmaster income on being able to work most Saturdays during the year. I hardly applaud this and wish them all the luck in the world. The fact that their clients, hotels and wedding establishments around the UK who are keen to engage our services is great news and it could be only forbode well for the future because, as the more London based members will tell you the corporate, Masonic and other types of work is fading fast for reasons too many to list here. So well done to all of you who now make the Saturday excursion into the bridal field a success both socially and financially and may you pick up loads of work along the way.

I have divided the wedding scenes into two distinct and separate sections - before, say 1980/1990 and after, demonstrating to all new guys and gals on the block how it has altered.

In the periods before and immediately after the war wedding receptions were fairly routine and ritualistic, especially in their timings. I have set out a kind of daily program which was repeated regularly. You will see that not only were they short, but in many cases ended so early on the Saturday the Toastmaster was free to take a ladies festival in the evening; impossible today.

All the timings are hypothetical 1:30 pm 40

Bride and Groom to go to a Church for the ceremony

e Archive old and new.

2.00pm

Ceremony ends. Photographer takes as many photos there as possible

2:15 pm

Bridal party leave for the Reception

2:45 pm Arrival at Reception and greeted by the Toastmaster - one quick glass of champagne and an IMMEDIATE LINE-UP to receive the guests (the photographer had absolutely no say in the matter! Guest were received as they arrived.)

3:15 pm End of lineup and photographs taken.BUFFET LUNCH SERVED TO THE STANDING GUESTS. Occasionally it was what was known as a ‘fork buffet’ with informal tables but was still quickly served.

4.30/4:45 pm Cutting of the wedding cake leading immediately into the speeches.

5:15 pm

End of speeches

5:30 pm

Bride and Groom go to change into their ‘going away’ clothes.

6 pm Guest invited by the Toastmaster to gather around the Wedding car to say farewell to the Bridal couple.

6.30pm

AT THE VERY LATEST. We all went home!

These times, of course, are flexible but you will note that the Toastmaster’s duties lasted around three hours and if lucky he was able to leave to go to another event. My own, my daughters and my son’s wedding is fell into that pattern and they were all over by around 6.00pm, allowing the guest to leave and make their own evenings arrangements.

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These were extremely happy affairs. Nobody hung around for too long; everyone had a chance to chat briefly to family and friends; nobody drank too much; nobody had to sit and listen to hideously loud music until unconscious. But in many cases the fun of the day was decorating the car which was to take the couple away. The ‘JUST MARRIED’ signs were stuck all over it, tins, cans, confetti, streamers, spray foam, the occasional kipper affixed to the exhaust pipe and other harmless but fun ‘doctoring’ which everyone seemed to love.

There was a mildly snobbish and elitist social approach to the length of the weddings at that time.

Not politically correct but nevertheless it was there. There were occasional weddings that did run dances into the evening. These were organised by (oh God how I hate the expression but I can’t think of anything different) the more working class people of society; this is not a criticism as I did many and there were great folks who worked their butts off in ways other than ‘professionals’. They wanted to have a great time into the small hours and they jolly well did. Higher up the social ladder, the weddings were shorter and shorter. I remember doing one wedding for a renowned Peer when royalty had been at the church. 700 Guest attended the service - about 200 came to the reception and within about two hours 80 or so were left for the speeches and everyone left. The family were delighted by it all, but it was fairly typical of what was known as a ‘Society Wedding’!

These were halcyon days of Weddings. Not only were Saturdays filled up, but every Easter and Whitson (when we had a Whitson!) and any Bank Holiday meant that a Toastmaster could do dozens of them each year in addition to other work that was around.

Sadly, things have changed and in my old-fashioned, miserable, ageist and uncharitable view, NOT FOR THE BETTER. When a booking is offered today, we are told that the ceremony is 1.00 pm and that the party will end at around 1 am (12 hours?! More like a life sentence!)

2:15 pm The Bridal party will arrive at the reception and be taken away halfway across the county by a photographer “Who knows a lovely little bridge by a lake which will make beautiful pictures!”

2:30 pm Guest - with a million kids - will arrive and hang around drinking champagne with, if you’re lucky, the odd nibble.

4:00 pm.

If the photographer permits, the Bridal party will return. Maybe during that time that Toastmaster has been acting as ‘traffic warden’ to call together for photographers, mums, dads, cousins, uncles, brothers, sisters, second cousin once removed, school friends, college friends, work colleague, best man, ushers, bridesmaids and uncle-Tom-Cobley-and-all for more photographs.

5.00pm The Toastmaster is then and only then allowed to line up the Bridal party to have the guests announce as they trail into dinner. With more than 120 guests that can take half an hour or longer. This is the daftest new scheme that has hit weddings ever! IT IS ABSOLUTLY POTTY. They’ve all been talking together for two hours; the first couple throughhas to wait at their table whilst they greet the others. It is so damn silly as to beggar belief. But the new young kids on the block running these establishments know no different.

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5:30pm

We start to eat. If it is a table-at-a-time buffet it takes around two hours to serve.

7.00pm

If you’re lucky or 7:30 pm if not, the speeches begin.

7.30/8:00 pm Bride and Groom get up from table and dancing begins until God Alone knows when. There are the rare occasions where the Toastmaster is required to hang around whilst the disco or band set up simply to announce the first dance. I never do that unless it is immediately after the last speech.

Despite any contract saying that your duties last four hours, the Toastmaster has been around for nearly 6 and any hope of an early departure is gone. I want to the wedding in South Wales where I arrived at 2 pm and left at 11 pm. They did not tell me that after the service they were going home for two hours and at that reception of 250 guests the caterer boasted no more than 15 staff FOR THE WHOLE WEDDING - chef, waitresses and bar staff three course meal lasted 2 ½ hours!

Added to this are other downsides one of which is now that hotels are licensed to have civil ceremonies at their place, the Toastmaster and now has to arrive BEFORE THE CEREMONY. At least in the past, we had the church services to take up some of the time.

Another which I, in my stupidly naive and old-fashioned mind, find utterly disgraceful is the fact that many brides and grooms today have been living together for umpteen years and the wedding is simply an excuse for a party. Why bother? I actually did a wedding last year where the bride was holding her baby in her arms as I introduced the guests. I am sufficiently dim, dumb and romantic to remember the days when the bridal couple went off on their honeymoon for the actual purpose of in “a first marital night”. How sad that this is all gone.

So you now know why I appear so disinterested and cavalier about the current spate of Saturday weddings. I hope I offended no one in this article and I know that, as I have said above, many of you thrive on them. But having done the job for nearly 60 years including hundreds and hundreds of weddings, receptions, I am too old and senile to accept change. Both my wife and our editor Pav agree with that and reckoned that I am curmudgeonly cynic. Well, if the cap fits I’ll wear it!

Good luck to you all. Have fun.

By Founder and Past-President Bryn Williams.

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