Annual OA Dinner 2024
02 April 2024
The Annual OA Dinner 2024, held on Saturday 9 March, was enjoyed by over 80 guests. Ages ranged from 18 to 84 with OAs representing every decade from the 1950s to the 2020s. The Head of Foundation, Mrs Alex Hems, welcomed everyone back to Aldenham with drinks and canapes in the Apthorp Room in The Wells Centre, where guests gathered at the start of the evening. Newly elected President, Clare Yeabsley (K1988-90) thanked James James-Crook (M1968-72) for his dedication to the role over a seven year tenure and said she will do her best to continue connecting with OAs of all ages and across the world. A delicious three course meal was followed by first class entertainment from professional magician, Christopher Whitelock (B2000-07). OA sports and social clubs were well represented with members of OAFC, OA Golf Society, Aldenham Fives, OA Hockey & Netball as well as the Old Aldenham Lodge all present and correct. John Griffin (SHO1976-81) travelled from Switzerland and Duncan Wallace (P1963-66) came from Bulgaria to join the occasion. Great fun was had by all with Instagram poses and Tik-Tok footage put together by younger members of the OA Committee determined to raise the profile of OA events to Generation X, Millennials and Gen Z, as well as the Boomers! Dinner Convenor, Chris Stern (P1973-78) made a point to thank the caterers, Holroyd Howe, who did a fantastic job and also subsidised the wine for the event, to help keep the ticket prices attractive.The whole evening was a great success and set the bar high for a similar standard for 2025. Photographs taken on the evening may be viewed in the Event Galleries and feedback and suggestions for future OA gatherings are invited – please send all thoughts to oas@aldenham.com