AUTUMN 2012

THE

CALEDONIAN

Launch of the Clubs own tartan

Kinloch Anderson has designed the Clubs official tartan, based on the sett of the Clan Campbell after the founder of the Club, Neville Campbell. The colour influences include the saltire and the Clubs crest. Full story on pg 2.

DIAMOND JUBILEE BALL SOCIAL SCENE

THE CALEDONIAN LECTURE

WIN TICKETS TO THE OPEN

IN CONVERSATION WITH SIR TOM FARMER

NEW CLUB COMMITEE

Official Journal of The Caledonian Club Belgravia, London

THE STORY BEHIND

My recent talk on the Scottish Register of Tartans came at the suggestion of Vice President, Alex Wilson.

The Caledonian Club Tartan

The occasion could not have been more enjoyable. My husband Douglas was seated next to Ian Ross and the subject of a possible Club tartan arose. Due to the long-standing relationship between Kinloch Anderson and the Club, we proposed Kinloch Anderson would design a tartan for the Club with our compliments. Ian discussed this with the Club Chairman, David Coughtrie and other Members of the Committee who were delighted to accept. When Kinloch Anderson design a tartan we place great importance on our customers historical background and association with Scotland. If it is a club or society we go back to the founder(s), location/building and may incorporate colours from the club crest or badge. The colour story is based on the Clubs crest and the saltire which is represented in the Club tie. It also includes the purple colour from the tartan-like image in the Clubs branding. As the Club was founded by Neville Campbell the sett of the Clan Campbell tartan was chosen as the basis of the design. Red from the Morrison

tartan was included as 9 Halkin Street was built for Hugh Morrison. The initial design ideas were worked out into computer print-outs and six designs were presented, each accompanied by information on how and why a particular colour or sett size was incorporated. The design unanimously selected has an even balance between purple and blue. Before committing the design to be woven, it is essential that the yarn colours which best match the design are seen and approved. Ian Ross was really keen for the blue to be an accurate

representation of the official saltire blue and great care was taken to find a purple shade which complemented the blue but maintained a classic Scottish image. The yarn colours are very important to the design process. Attention to detail must be given in order to maintain a visual image of a twodimensional tartan picture into a three-dimensional woven tartan design when the coloured yarns cross each other and the tartan comes to life. Ian Ross came to Edinburgh to see the yarn and make the final choice. The Caledonian Club tartan will be ready for Christmas and we trust that the story behind the tartan will enhance its value and that the Members will be proud that this Scottish icon belongs to the Club. The Caledonian Club tartan is now officially registered in Scotlands National Register within the National Archives of Scotland. The numbered Certificate of Registration signed by the Keeper of the Register includes the thread count and colour details. Deirdre Kinloch Anderson

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THE CALEDONIAN CLUB CONTACTS

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The Official Journal of The Caledonian Club 9 Halkin Street, Belgravia London SW1X 7DR
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PUBLISHER

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CHAIRMAN

House Manager David Balden Membership Anne Rowland

David T Coughtrie
VICE CHAIRMAN

The Caledonian Club 2012

Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, neither The Caledonian Club nor the authors can accept liability for errors or omissions. Views expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of The Caledonian Club. No responsibility can be accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies or photographs. All prices and information contained in advertisements are correct at the time of going to press. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

David W Guild
COMMITTEE

James Fairbairn James H F Gemmell William E McDermott Iain L Macdonald Leon G Renwick Ian Ross Dr A Ian Schoolar Rodney R T Smith Anthony S Westnedge OBE David L C White

The Caledonian

AUTUMN 2012

CHAIRMANS LETTER

Respice, prospice
Dear Fellow Members, as a Member of 30 years standing it is a great honour to have been elected Chairman of our Club and a privilege to contribute to its future development.

D
INSIDE THIS ISSUE

4 5

NEWS IN BRIEF New Club Committee 2012-13 RECIPROCAL CLUBS The Commonwealth Club Canberra The Country Club, Johannesburg NEW MEMBERS Welcome to the Club Membership Update OBITUARY Ian Caithness Menzies 1940-2012 SOCIAL SCENE Photo update on recent social events CLUB SOCIETIES Rounding up activities of the Club Societies MEMBER INTERVIEW In conversation with Sit Tom Farmer ROUND-UP St Andrews Day Dinner with Rt Hon Lord Forsyth of Drumlean SPOTLIGHT ON THE CALEDONIAN LECTURE Celebrating the life of Eric Liddell COMING UP For your diary Forthcoming events

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www.caledonianclub.com

espite the current economic situation, we are attracting an increasing number of new male and female Members in every age group. This has had a positive effect on life in the Club with the many successful events that are being held providing a lively buzz most evenings. While the all afternoon corporate lunch of yesteryear has largely gone, it is encouraging to see that we have so many Members entertaining friends and business colleagues during the day, in spite of the shorter time generally available. To remain successful we need to think of ourselves as a business that will sustain and improve the traditional standards that have been the hallmark of our club for over 100 years, and so ensure that we prosper for the rest of the century and remain the centre of Scottish life in London. Recent surveys of Members have reinforced our perception as a friendly, welcoming club that is not stuffy and continues to move with the times. The phrase, In order to stay the same, we need to change, comes to mind describing the way we are going forward. As part of this trend, the Club will have a smart business dress code on Fridays to allow those Members and their guests who dress extremely smartly but without a tie to use the Club for lunch on a Friday. This extends the existing code for Friday evenings. The Club Committee reflects the views of Members when anticipating and planning our future needs and direction. In turn this is contained in the Business Plan, which is currently being updated to guide us through the next three-year period. Working with our first class senior staff under the leadership of the Secretary, these plans will ensure that we have a healthy and successful club for years to

come. We are fortunate in having a good cadre of staff, many of whom we see but also those behind the scenes, who contribute to our success. The donations made to the Staff Fund reflect the good standing in which we hold all of our staff. Members and staff alike have been saddened by the passing of Ian Menzies, Vice President, past Club Chairman and troncmaster. His memory will live on through the good work that he did over the years, particularly his overseeing of the extension of the Club. I hope that all Members will continue to help defray the cost of the extension and the new lease that was obtained, by purchasing Crannogs and leaving legacies via the Signet Club.

In order to stay the same, we need to change.

I was delighted by the maximum turnout at this years Caledonian Lecture honouring Eric Liddell. We heard a splendid Lecture given by Sally Magnusson and graced by the Chinese Charg dAffaires introductory remarks. With this annual lecture we have a winning formula that enhances club life and brings attention to our existence. Attention was certainly sharpened on the London Open House Weekend, when on Sunday 23 September, we had 500 interested visitors enjoying the Secretarys non-stop tours of our splendid public rooms. We have a Club to be proud of and long may it continue. Yours aye, David Coughtrie Chairman
AUTUMN 2012

The Caledonian

NEWS IN BRIEF

Territorial advance
Congratulations to Vice President of the Club, Brigadier Ranald T I Munro TD (Late Parachute Regiment (Volunteers)), currently Assistant Commander Support Command, who has been appointed Deputy Commander Land Forces (Reserves), in the rank of Major General, in succession to Major General the Duke of Westminster. This appointment sees immediate past Chairman Ranald take on the most senior role in the Territorial Army.

CLUB WEBSITE CONTAINS A WEALTH OF USEFUL INFORMATION

If you are registering for the first time, go to Member Registration on the website. It will be at the bottom of the Login screen in blue. Member Number: Put in your membership number which starts with M, eg. M1883010 First Name: Exactly as it appears on your Membership card, eg. Florence K V As appears on your Membership card, without decorations, eg. Campbell CVO

Last Name:

Behind the public site, Members can log on for club calendar, accounts and billing information, events, pricing, etc, which will save you time and keep you in touch with whats happening at your Halkin St homefrom-home. You can look up your fellow Members and whilst youre there, please do update your own information for others to reference. Club events are simple to book. Information can be seen at a glance, with full details at a click.

Click on Validate Now enter a memberable user name and password of your choice. Click Create User If you require any help with registration simply call Alison Davis on 020 7333 8712 during office hours and shell talk you through it. Please do let the Club know if you change your contact details.

New Club Committee 2012-13

Pictured L-R the Club Committee 2012-13 elected in May: Bill E McDermott, David L C White, Iain L Macdonald (back), James H F Gemmell (front), Leon G Renwick, James Fairbairn, Dr Ian A Schoolar, Ian Ross, David W Guild (Vice Chairman), David T Coughtrie (Chairman), Rodney R T Smith, Anthony S Westnedge OBE

The Caledonian

AUTUMN 2012

NEW RECIPROCAL CLUBS

The Commonwealth Club Canberra

Located in the exclusive parliamentary and diplomatic district of Australias capital, Canberra, The Commonwealth Club was established in 1954 and is set amongst two acres of beautiful gardens with views across Lake Burley Griffin to the city centre. The Commonwealth Club is within walking distance of Parliament House, the High Court of Australia, National Portrait Gallery, National Gallery of Australia and the National Library. The Australian War Memorial and many other unique places of cultural interest and significance are within close proximity. The Club boasts 17 tastefully appointed ensuite bedrooms, which feature air-conditioning, central heating, free Wi-Fi and digital televisions. A library, formal lounge and dining room are open to members, reciprocal members and guests as is a casual dining area and outdoor garden terrace. A floodlit tennis court is located on the Clubs grounds for the enjoyment of members and guests.
The Commonwealth Club 25 Forster Crescent Yarralumla ACT 2600 T 0061 2 6120 2100 F 0061 2 6120 2122 W www.commonwealth.com.au
The tennis courts at The Commonwealth Club

The Country Club, Johannesburg

Since its origin in 1906, The Country boasts two world-class golf courses, Club Johannesburg has prided a cricket oval, courts for tennis, itself on attracting individuals who squash, bowls and croquet, plus an appreciate world-class recreational outdoor running track and a facilities, excellent service, and swimming pool with one of the socialising with likeminded people. The Club is a place for young and old, where families and friends can meet, exercise, dine and relax, all in the comfort of its beautiful surroundings. Its extensive sports facilities cover two locations Auckland Park and Woodmead both of which feature pristine grounds, scenic views, and lush greenery. Across both The Lodge at The Country Club locations, The Club best views of Johannesburg. Club members have access to all sports facilities on most days, and some individual clubs allow guests of members on certain days.

The Lodge at The Country Club

Located in the secluded greenery of The Clubs Auckland Park grounds, the Lodge is a tranquil and historic boutique hotel in the heart of Johannesburg. 18 rooms are en-suite with either a bath or a shower, and all have a television and wireless Internet connectivity. A full English or continental breakfast each morning is included in the accommodation package, and guests are granted full access to the Clubs facilities for the duration of their stay so a swim in the pool, a meal at one of the Clubs five restaurants, or a round of golf are just a short walk away.
Rates 2012 Double/twin rooms: R840 per night Single rooms: R740 per night T 00 27 11 710 6408 E reservations@ccj.co.za

AUTUMN 2012

The Caledonian

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to the Club!

Caroline J Banszky
Caroline is Scottish by ancestry. She is a history graduate of the University of Exeter and a Chartered Accountant. Having worked as an investment banker, she went on to be Finance Director of N M Rothschilds & Sons, followed by running a Lloyds market listed company. She is now Managing Director of The Law Debenture Corporation. Among other hobbies, she enjoys Scottish country dancing and keeps a small pedigree beef shorthorn herd. Fred left Edinburgh in 1969 to join ICI where he spent 33 years in various finance, M&A, and general business roles. He has been married to Joan since 1970 and they have two children and three grandchildren. Fred has had a long term involvement in rugby and golf, both as player and administrator. He has been a ScotsCare Trustee since 2002 and is a member of The Caledonian Society of London.

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
NEW MEMBERS Thomas A Adamson David Barclay Douglas A Benzie Dr Youssef Boutros-Ghali Joseph A H Burton Les Clifford Christopher Cruden Professor Robert A Cumming I Douwe Cunningham Gordon W Davidson Xavier Delestrade Bernard Delomenie Dr Peter A Emerson Henry J Evans Craig B Forrest Stanley W Fraser Denis Gorbunenko Frederick P Gray William R Haldane Mark W Hammond R Alexander Hammond-Chambers David Harrison Mary Heaney Jane S Henderson Julian C H J Ings-Chambers Alexander M Keddie Fraser M Kerr Peter B Knight Iain N S Laird Kevin Lynch Annalena McAfee Mark McDavid Simon P MacDonald David Macfarlane Stephen J McGlennan Alexander J MacGregor Neil J F McIntosh Robert G Mackenzie Alastair MacLeod Thomas R Markham Stuart P Milne A James Munro Sean OHare John P Phillips Jon D Ramsay David H Rennie Denise Y Riley Douglas R K Robb Robert Robinson W Gordon Sellars Mrs Regina M A Sharma Christiaan J T Smith Jessica F T Smith Colin Watson Douglas B Watt Dr Robin S A While Ciaran D Woods Allen L R Worrall Christopher Young RE-ELECTION Robert Parkhill IN MEMORIAM Bruce M D Durkie Mrs Alison M F Forbes Ronald N McDonald Ian C Menzies Eric H Stevenson Mrs Elizabeth D Taylor Lionel M Walker-Munro

A selection of some of the Members who joined in the course of the year
SNR Denton where he was a partner and member of the firms Global Advisory Board. He worked for a number of years in the Middle East and is now a director and Chief Operating Officer of Hybrid Air Vehicles Limited, a UK-based aerospace company. Steve lives in Wimbledon with his family and is a member of Roehampton Club where he enjoys playing golf. He has recently had his first experience of salmon fishing on the Tay and hopes to be able to continue this sporting activity with fellow Club Members.

Professor Alison M MacLeod

Alison was born and brought up in Aberdeen, attending the High School for Girls and then the University of Aberdeen, where she studied medicine. Following graduation she joined the university staff and trained clinically in general medicine and nephrology and obtained a postgraduate doctorate in medicine with honours in 1984 and hospital consultant status in 1988. She led the applied renal research collaboration in the university and was firstly Director of the Renal Service and then of Research and Development for NHS Grampian. She is now retired though still does some work for the General Medical Council and the European Renal Guidelines Group.

Neil J F McIntosh
Neil, born in Glasgow and raised in Dunoon, graduated from Napier University in 1996. He is now Deputy Editor, Europe for The Wall Street Journal, his career in journalism having taken him through the newsrooms of the Edinburgh Evening News, Scotsman and, in London, the Guardian. He has a keen interest in technology and business, and completed an MBA in 2006. Outside work, his passions are his young family and football, the former keeping him somewhat in shape for the latter.

David Barclay
David was brought up in Edinburgh where he enjoyed rugby and golf. After studying Maths at the University of Edinburgh he joined the oil business in London which took him around the world. He was very impressed with the quality of Scottish country dancing in South America! He now manages a speciality oil company providing high grade fuels to racing teams. Davids interest in rugby is now confined to supporting London Scottish and he still manages break 80 now and again on the golf course.

Jonathan M McMahon
Jonathan is a Partner at Mazars, an international audit and advisory firm. He graduated from St Andrews University in 1998, where he met his future wife, and subsequently lived in the United States and Ireland, where latterly he was involved in the restructuring of the Irish banking system. He spends as often as he can in Scotland, where he and his wife have close family in Pitlochry; and a good amount of time and money supporting the Scotch whisky industry from his home in Suffolk. He recently hosted a reunion of St Andrews University contemporaries at the Club.

Mark McDavid
Mark was born in Galloway and spent his early years in Aden, Samoa and Nigeria. He then became a boarder at George Watsons and attained an engineering degree from Napier University. A career followed in consumer goods in the UK and USA and he is currently Managing Director of Aunt Bessies Ltd. Mark is married to Lesley, with two daughters (23 and 21) and they divide their time between Yorkshire and Scotland. His interests are tennis, badminton and real ale.

Dr Peter A Emerson
Now retired from being a Consultant Physician and Dean of the former Westminster Hospital Medical School, Peter, from his home across the road in Halkin Street, has long been an admirer of the outside of the Caledonian, and is now delighted to enjoy the splendour of the inside and the conviviality of his Scottish neighbours.

Stephen J McGlennan
Stephen was born in Scotland and attended the University of Edinburgh and the University of Pennsylvania. He qualified as a solicitor in Scotland and then went on to work in the City for Slaughter and May and

Frederick P Gray
Fred was born in 1944 near Paisley. He attended senior school at Daniel Stewarts then Edinburgh University (MA) then CA Articles.

Alastair Muir Wood

Alastair is a Chartered Civil Engineer who works for DONG Energy specialising in the design of offshore wind farms. Away

from work, Alastair enjoys hill walking, travelling and sailing (especially in the West Highlands). He sailed across the Atlantic in 2009 with his fiance Alexandra.

The Caledonian

AUTUMN 2012

NEWS IN BRIEF

Flying visit
RAF Club Member stays for Bomber Command unveiling
We were delighted to help out by offering accommodation to 91yr old Squadron Leader Edgar Pickles DFC & Bar when the RAF Club was fully booked on the occasion of the Bomber Command Memorial dedication. As a Lancaster Bomber pilot, Edgar completed two tours, flying 50 sorties over Europe/Germany during 1943 & 1944. Edgar travelled from his home in New South Wales, Australia to attend the dedication and unveiling by Her Majesty the Queen and at the conclusion of the ceremony was amongst a number of Bomber

Together We Can Make A Difference

What does the word 'Mentoring' mean to you?
Here at Positive Pete, it means working with students from 7 19 years old on a one to one basis, helping them to realise their True Potential and Become the Best they Can Be, whether that be from an Academic, Behavioural or Social aspect. We are helping the youth of today to have a worthwhile future of their, own tomorrow. Our Mentoring Services are offered Free of Charge.
Committee Member Anthony Westnedge with RAF Club guest, Squadron Leader Edgar Pickles DFC & Bar

Command veterans who were invited to meet and shake hands with the Queen. It was a very emotional and memorable day which was followed by a most entertaining and enjoyable evening at The Caledonian Club.

Can you give up as little as One Hour per week on a Voluntary basis to mentor at one of the many schools we are working with. full training and support are provided and volunteers will be expected to undergo the CRB clearance process in order for them to work with young people. If you dont have the free time available then you can help the students we work with on their journey of discovery in other ways. Either through sponsorship of our work, by making a donation, offering complimentary educational/ stationery supplies or simply advertising our services. Together we can make a difference, so if you feel that you or your company is up to the Challenge then please contact Denise Riley by email at driley@positivepete.co.uk

Re-discover your healthier self

For those of you suffering Olympic withdrawal symptoms why not head to the gym? Club Members have access to a high quality fitness club at Victoria which has an excellent range of equipment, pool and sauna. Daily passes (5) providing full use of all these facilities may be obtained from Reception. Fitness club opening hours are as follows:

Positive Pete is a registered charity (No. 1147851)

Monday-Thursday: Friday: Saturday & Sunday:

6.30am-10.00pm 6.30am-8.00pm 9.00am-4.00pm

Keeping it in the family

New Minister for the Kirk
Angus MacLeod, great grandson of the first Minister of St Columbas Church, was recently ordained as Minister of both St Columbas, Pont Street and St Andrew's, Newcastle. A former Chaplain in the British Army and teacher, Angus was educated at St Andrews University. He and his wife Dr Liz Brutus last year celebrated the birth of their daughter, Olivia. Anguss appointment affords him Honorary Membership of The Caledonian Club.

Budding Andy Murrays can cross over to Belgrave Square Gardens, two minutes walk from the Club, to use the tennis courts therein.

LA fitness pool at Victoria

AUTUMN 2012

The Caledonian

OBITUARY

Ian Caithness Menzies

Ian Menzies passed away on the 6th September, aged 72. He had been a Member of the Club for 36 years and was a Vice President, having served as Chairman from 2000-03. Born in Edinburgh in 1940, Ian was educated at Uppingham School then Edinburgh University. He qualified as a CA and whilst working for McLelland Moores, Ian audited The Caledonian Club. Later he held board positions with Schroders and General Accident (Aviva), and directorships with McKay Securities and the Poles Group. He was elected to the Club in 1976, proposed by his father Sir Peter Menzies (himself a Member for 42 years). Ian was active in many facets of club life: a member of the Number 9 Society and the Racing Society, former Chairman of the Common Good Fund and the Arts & Artefacts Committee, and, as Chairman of the Shooting and Fishing Society, he represented the Club in competition only weeks before his death. He was a governor of Winchester House School and an honorary president of the Menzies Clan Society. Ian was also a regular skiier and annual visitor to the opera in Verona. To the delight of his adored grandchildren, he was passionate about cars. He also enjoyed golf and played in the annual Members v Staff golf match. Ian was a very capable shot: it was not unusual for him to shoot a very challenging target with his first shot and glance down the line to make sure we had seen it! He made everyone welcome at Club events and was hugely popular, both in the Club and in the field. To everyone who knew him Ian epitomised The Caledonian Club Member: generous, polite, a stickler for correct procedure, but with a

1940 -2012
kindness and enthusiasm for the Club which he shared with Members young and old. This lead to his immense popularity with staff and Members alike. Our Club will miss him I know I will. Yours aye, Alan J Wallace Shooting Society

ADDITION TO CLUBS COMMON GOOD FUND COLLECTION

Member Angus Flett kindly commissioned a picture of his alma mater, Merchiston to add to the Clubs collection. The drawing, by fellow former pupil Andrew Govan (96-03) was presented by Mr Flett (76-82), pictured left with David Rider, Director of Development at Merchiston Castle School and the then Club Chairman, Ranald Munro, TD. Merchiston School is Scotlands only remaining boys boarding school.

Euan Harvie-Watt with the late Ian Menzies, Trustees of the Common Good Fund accepting a cheque from Chairman, David Coughtrie. The proceeds were raised by a Silent Auction at the Summer Ball in June.

THE SHETLAND GALLERY

Sellafirth, Yell , Shetland The best of Shetland art and crafts Open from Easter weekend until the end of September or by appointment www.shetlandgallery.com tel. 01957744259

The Caledonian

AUTUMN 2012

NEWS IN BRIEF

Book Club: A new group for Members

It started, as many things do, with a conversation in the bar. Of course, said my guest, waving his arm to take in the Club dcor, everything you Scots think of as Scottish was invented by Walter Scott. Gritting my teeth and trying to appear affable, I launched in to a brief (or so I thought) explanation of the measures taken after the 45 Uprising, the destruction of the Clan system, the Highland Clearances, the banning of the speaking of Gaelic and the wearing of the tartan By this time my guests attention had wandered, so we went back to more neutral topics, such as the future of the Coalition. A few days later, it occurred to me that my guest had had a point but not the one he thought. Arguably, writers such as Scott either reflect prevailing views of nationality and character, or shape them. With the Referendum on the horizon, might it not be interesting to take a look at Scottish literature and debate the ways in which their views differed or converged over time? Might enough Club members share my enthusiasm for this project? So, it was with some degree of trepidation that I waited in the Library one Wednesday evening. There were nine of us at that first session, and numbers have grown steadily since then. The format of our meetings is that we debate the book under consideration and the various issues it raises. Following the meeting we circulate a brief summary of those views expressed at the Club, and also by those who could not be there in person but have sent us their thoughts by email. Some fascinating themes are emerging in relation to
Meeting of the Book Club

the unionist/nationalist divide and we are toying with the idea of publishing our findings in some format, possibly supplemented by a brief opinion survey. Although only in existence for a short time, the Book Club has already led to some exciting developments. As part of our review of a recently published novel (The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey) we were able to enter into a dialogue with the author, who kindly sent us some previously unpublished notes on the background to her work. Another author, of a biography of Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, who was the last nobleman to be executed for treason, has agreed to speak to us later this year. Having recently discussed Robert Louis Stevensons Kidnapped,

Book Club members were delighted to attend the Arts Groups Stevenson Evening on Thursday 26th October. If you have not tried the Book Club yet, please give it some thought. We would love to see you! There is no membership fee and no commitment to attend every session. You may also participate by email if you wish. We will be drawing up our next reading list very soon and we have already had some fascinating suggestions. If you have any views on what you might like to see on the list, please get in touch. The Book Club meets in the Library from 6-7.15pm with an option to retire to the bar or dining room afterwards to continue the debate. Hilary Reid-Evans

ALBA LUNCH GROUP

Festive floristry with the return of Judith Blacklock

We eagerly awaited a return visit on 17 October by international florist, and author of nine books on the subject, Judith Blacklock. Judith was very popular on her last visit: after her summer-themed arrangements last time, we had looked forward to her demonstration of Christmas decorations, giving us plenty of time to practice and she didn't disappoint. Details of our events for March, June and October 2013 will be advertised on the Clubs website, but we hope to include a visit to Wren-designed City churches, a tour of the home of English National Opera the London Coliseum, and a visit by a noted perfumer. Glenn McNeill

Of a the arts
The Caledonian Club Arts Group was inaugurated last year. Membership now exceeds 50. The Club has many arts-related assets and activities. One aim of the Arts Group Committee is to try to enhance benefits derived from these by the Club and Club Members. Another is to identify opportunities and organise events that will expand enjoyment of the arts by Group and Club Members. At the Groups Walter Scott evening on 12 April 2012, Professor David Purdie spoke illuminatingly and wittily. On Thursday 25 October 2012 the writer Ian Nimmo gave an illustrated talk, preceded by a reception and followed by supper, on Robert Louis Stevenson, the Appin Murder, Kidnapped, and the new Fire Service wilderness walk, The Stevenson Way. training On Thursday 22 November 2012 there will be an Arts Group afternoon visit to Linley Sambourne House, followed by tea at the Club. Linley Sambourne (above right) was a celebrated book illustrator and Punch cartoonist. His house is the best surviving example of a late Victorian home. The Arts Group has helped facilitate attendance by Club Members at shows such as Masterpiece and auction-sale previews, for example, of the contents of Old Battersea House. The support of Club staff with these activities is greatly appreciated. Edmund Gordon

AUTUMN 2012

The Caledonian

SOCIAL SCENE

Spring and summer saw Members and their guests enjoy a wide variety of highly entertaining social events at the Club

Caledonian Club S
L-r: Anthony Westnedge, David Mundell and Colin Buchanan

Above: Alba Lunch outing to Chelsea Physic Gardens last June Right: Musical Evening Ivana Gavric

Clockwise from above: Anthony Westnedge, Lady Stewart and Hector Falconer; The Duncan family; Donald McNab and Mark Bradley; Glenis and Bill Kerr Elliott; Denise Riley & friends; Colin McKerrow; Jane Gordon & Beryl Cross; James Grieve

NUMBER 9 SOCIETY
Right: Chairman David Coughtrie presents Vice President Colin Buchanan with his tie celebrating 40 years as a Member

Golfing
Below: Bill Martin regales the Members with stories of his songwriting career. Left: Golfing Society member Paul Reid at Brora GC Right: Golfing Society members Ian Jones and Dr Malcolm Gillespie at Brora GC Above: (Pictured left, with Vice President Colin Buchanan) Club Member and writer of legendary pop songs 'Shang-a-lang' and 'Puppet on a String' (not to mention the England World Cup song 'Back Home',) three-time Ivor Novello-winning Bill Martin spoke at the October lunch.

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The Caledonian

AUTUMN 2012

Summer Barbecue

YOUNGER MEMBERS SOCIETY

The Younger Members Society and guests at Phyllis Court Club for the Henley Regatta

CIGAR EVENING
Top: Jim McGhee of Hunters & Frankau Below: Members enjoyed dinner and cigars on the Terrace on Thursday, 5th July

L-r: Anthony Westnedge, Donald Lamont and Colin Buchanan

Racing Society
Right: Members of the Racing Society at Goodwood 2012

Society

Below: Racing Society visit to Hughie & Mary Morrison's home at Summerdown Stables in July

AUTUMN 2012

The Caledonian

11

CLUB SOCIETIES

YOUNGER MEMBERS SOCIETY

On their travels again O

The Younger Members Society has swelled to 124 members following elections over the August break and our calendar is as full as ever with the YMS Christmas Lunch set up for Friday 7th December.
ur first joint reciprocal club trip will take place in November when the YMS and the Royal Bachelors Club will visit Sir Peter Erskine, who is a descendent of the Royal Bachelors Club co-founder Thomas Erskine, at Cambo House in Fife. Back in June, our annual excursion to the Phyllis Court Club for the Henley Royal Regatta was made all the more enjoyable due to the presence of guests from our reciprocal club The Kildare Street and University Club of Dublin. In September 22 Younger Members and their guests visited the Princeton Club, Yale Club and the New York Yacht Club on what was our fifth reciprocal club trip in two years. We were indeed hosted in style by the respective clubs and a thank you is owed to Sunny Larson of Yale Club, Nicole Diamant of Princeton, Benjamin Normann of New York Yacht Club, Member David Jones and Secretary Ian Campbell for making this magnificent trip possible. In other news Lita Khazaka and our founder Leon Renwick have decided to step down from the YMS Committee. The YMS is eternally grateful for their contributions and fortunately we will continue to see them involved in Club life. Andrew Fraser, Chairman

Members Julian Phillips and Andrew Fraser at Henley Royal Regatta

David Jones and Colette Walsh at Henley Royal Regatta

SHOOTING SOCIETY

Balvenie retained with our best shot

2012 saw the return of the Coupe des Nations after its enforced break last year. Teams from British, French (and American!) Clubs competed over a wet weekend centred on Paris. While wined and dined admirably, suffice to say the result was Hastings rather than Agincourt, and by a good margin. Sadly, in May we cancelled the Club competition as there were too few guns to make it worthwhile. June saw us in Edinburgh for the 16th annual meeting against the New Club; after a nail-biting finish, a splendid dinner, a re-count and a stewards enquiry, we retained the Balvenie Trophy (right) by just one clay. The New Club were true sportsmen. The competition season ended with the City of London Club shoot in which we finished a respectable sixth of 12, and in terms of score, within spitting distance of third, such was the bunching. Whites, the winners, were in a different league. We have a full team of eight going to Kennett in September for the simulated game shoot we share with Brookss. Before we know it, the game season proper will be upon us again with the usual varied calendar encompassing days in Suffolk and Dumfriesshire before Christmas and Aberdeenshire in January. Alistair Irvine, Clay Team Captain
Alastair Irvine (right) being presented with the Balvenie trophy by Member David Grant, whose family sponsors the event

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Diamond Jubilee Ball

I N ASSO CIATION W IT H JOHNNIE WA L KER

Members turned out with their guests in near record numbers for the Diamond Jubilee Ball. It was an especially dressy occasion with some men in full white tie regalia and ladies in tiaras. This year dinner was served at the tables, with the splendid menu (including Queenie Scallops and Balmoral Venison) taking some inspiration from that offered in the Club (for the equivalent of 60p!) on Coronation Day, Tuesday, 2nd June 1953.

The summer of 2012 will be remembered for its rain, but the sun shone on the London Scottish mini pipe band playing outside as guests arrived. After dinner the Karl Sandeman Trio gave flight, while the Ballrooms sprung dance floor gave added lift, to the Scottish country dancing.

Diamond J

IN ASSO CIAT ION W I T

In a new departure, we ran a silent auction which included five days at an Italian spa donated by Sir Rocco Forte and lunch with four tickets to a home game donated by Manchester United FC Manager and Club Member, Sir Alex Ferguson. Nearly 5,000 was raised for our charity, The Common Good Fund.

Jubilee Ball

The casino was as popular as ever. The raffle attracted good support with among others a week at Cul na Craig in Sutherland, donated by Mrs Sarah Scott, a private view at the Fleming Gallery and dinner for two at the Halkin Hotel.

TH JOH N NIE WALK E R

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THE BALL COMMITTEE

Chairman: David Coughtrie James Fairbairn Andrew Fraser Dr Ian Galbraith Pipe Major Ian King RVM Bill McDermott Dr Gordon Paterson Mrs Hilary Reid Evans Ian Ross Dr Ian Schoolar

In the Drawing Room the DJ tracked the 60 glorious years of Her Majestys reign. Our sponsor Johnny Walkers mixologist was kept busy in the bar and the whole Club was happily animated. The official end came at one oclock when consomm and kedgeree were on offer to fortify revellers for their journey home, but many lingered to reflect on a memorable night celebrating a remarkable reign.

In 2013 the Summer Ball will be held on 7th June. Tickets may be reserved by contacting events@caledonianlcub.com or booked directly at www.caledonianclub.com. For details of Membership please call Anne on 020 7333 8714 or if you wish to hold an event at the Club, call Eilidh on 020 7333 8722 or see details on the website.

N o 9 H A L K I N S T R E E T . B E L G R AV I A . L O N D O N S W 1 X 7 D R . T E L E P H O N E : 0 2 0 7 3 3 3 8 7 2 2 . FA X : 0 2 0 7 2 0 1 1 5 0 0 . E M A I L : B A N Q U E T I N G @ C A L E D O N I A N C L U B . C O M

www.caledonianclub.com

MUSIC SOCIETY

LONDON SCOTTISH FC

Impromptu improvisations
A special audience comes to these concerts; very knowledgeable, with liking, affection and loyalty towards the Music Society and very welcoming to new Members and guests. The 2013 season starts on 19th February, with a fifth appearance at the Club of the popular pianist Mitra Alice Tham (below) playing Rachmaninov, Gershwin, and impromptu improvisations.

An encouraging start
New seasons news from London Scottish Rugby Football.

ollowing a nerve-racking final match which kept us in the RFU Championship for a second season, Scottish spent the summer bolstering the squad with players experienced at this level. Top level Scottish players were also recruited in order to continue our tradition of being the third Scottish team, after Edinburgh and Glasgow based in London. Pre-season preparations were pleasing, with wins over Cardiff and the auld enemy Richmond, and we scored a hard fought win over Rotherham in the first game of the season at home. Later we gained a bonus point against a recently relegated but impressive Newcastle.

In the newly structured British & Irish Cup we have drawn Gala for a mouthwatering fixture at Richmond on January 19th. The Club will be arranging an excursion to this not to be missed event and details will be posted on the website www.caledonianclub.com. We continue the journey in the second tier of English rugby. Members and guests are most welcome to follow us at home or away. So, come on over to see London Scottish at Richmond Athletic Ground; see website for details of fixtures www.londonscottish.com. Cmon Scottish! Jock Meikle

On 19th March, Laura Kelly (Mezzo-Soprano) in conjunction with Classical Opera will include in a varied programme the monumental Cavatina: Una voce poco fa (Rosina) from Rossinis opera The Barber of Seville. On 23rd April, we welcome painist Vivian Choi (below), playing Schumann and Brahms. Vivian was described in the Washington Post as an exacting pianist affording more than simply cerebral enjoyment of complexity, letting brilliant cascades of notes ring out grandly High standards are required and delivered by the performers. The format of the evening is a champagne reception at 6.45pm, followed by a concert for one hour and a buffet supper, all at extremely reasonable cost. Albert Cowie, Chairman, Music Society

BRIDGE SOCIETY

New bridge players welcome

The Bridge Society meets in The Club on Monday evenings, starting at 6.30pm and pausing for a sandwich around 8pm. We finish around 9.30pm to enable everyone to reach home at a sensible hour. We arrange fours in advance, ensuring all play throughout the session. We would welcome more players. Our standard is good but not intimidating and we are very sociable. Thus, we invite other Members to join us not necessarily every week. Contact: The Secretarys office or Philip Craig E Philip@thecraigs.eu

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CLUB SOCIETIES

GOLF SOCIETY

A summer of golf
We are near the end of our golfing year and by the time you read this we will have played the Autumn Meeting at Worplesdon and the Donald Black foursomes at Denham and our Annual Dinner was on 31st October with principal speaker Rob Wainwright. In September our match against Royal Perth was at Woking and Royal Blackheath. We lost heavily in perfect conditions at Woking and after late-night training and a great dinner at the Club, we halved at Blackheath and Royal Perth took the trophy back to Perthshire. Thanks are due to David Smith for organising a great couple of days. What a splendid year it has been. Yet again we came second to Boodles in the Winter League, we retained the Stirrup Cup in our match against the Reform Club at Hankley Common, but at last we managed a win against the East India Club at The Berkshire. This is the first time since the matches started some 10 years ago that our name will appear on this splendid trophy, although it does appear as part of the inscription as it was presented to The East India Club by our Club in appreciation of their hospitality after The Caledonian lost its St Jamess premises due to a wartime bomb. The Captains team halved their match against the Past Captains at Woking, and they retain the trophy. We had a very successful Spring Meeting at the Captains course at Denham. The winner of the Duncan Collie Medal was Colin McCosh in difficult golfing conditions. The highlight of the year was our visit to the north of Scotland for our Summer Meeting, a break with the tradition of going to Le Touquet. 36 members and guests travelled to Brora and played in the best weather imaginable in the morning anyway. We also played Royal Dornoch and Castle Stuart (above) only a few weeks before they hosted the Scottish Open. All agreed it was the best Summer Meeting for a very long time; a truly superb golfing and social occasion. David Smith was Victor Ludorum, Colin McCosh won the Summer Cup and Bill McDermott the Rennie Anderson Trophy. We were back in Scotland at the end of August to play against the Western Club, Glasgow at Western Gailes, which lived up to its name. With the score at three matches each, and after a very sociable dinner in the Western Club, we played the
Alasdair Cockburn finally collecting the trophy after the East India Club match at The Berkshire 2012 with Captain of the East India Club Golfing Society, Paul Blows

second day at Killermont, where we narrowly lost and the Western Club retained the trophy. At the post-match debriefing it was put down to overtraining at dinner the night before. As ever we had a splendid couple of days with great hosts. Looking forward to 2013, the Spring Meeting will be at Porters Park on 17th April and the Summer Meeting in Scotland towards end of June. We will be visiting Aberdeen to play the RNUC, and we host the New Club here at beginning of September. Further details of all events will be sent to Society Members in early December, and will be posted on the website. Finally, our membership, currently 116, continues to grow and new members are always welcome. To join contact Anne Rowland at Membership ar@caledonianclub.com. Bill McDermott, Honorary Secretary

NUMBER 9 SOCIETY

Welcome to the No9 Society

We meet monthly on the first Tuesday monthly other than January and August at 12.30pm for drinks at an informal reception in the Selkirk Room joined by our guest speaker, followed by a two-course lunch, wines and coffee in the Stuart Room.
Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Israel and Afghanistan

ur welcome is extended to all Club Members and guests with our speakers drawn from a wide range of interests and occupations who talk on a topic of their choice from 2pm, followed by questions, to end at about 2.30pm. Speakers are often invited on the recommendation of Club Members. Our average attendance is 40, our lunches being happy, informal and relaxed occasions. Our Autumn programme began on 4 September when, thanks to Club Member David Halls introduction of Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Israel and Afghanistan, we were treated 14 The Caledonian
AUTUMN 2012

to a sparkling and comprehensive review of major political and military interventions in the Middle East during the last 100 years. He drew a graphic picture of Western governments repeatedly making the same fundamental mistakes in their successive, largely oil-driven, moves. Summing up, he offered two salient forecasts for the region: that by 2020 the USA will be self-sufficient in oil and gas, and that human developments resulting from the spread of education of the populace will no longer be dealt with by external force. On 2 October Club Member Bill Martin enlightened us on his career in the world of

pop music, its presentation and fascination, not least as writer of the first British winner of the European Song Contest. On 6 November the Rt Hon Michael Moore MP, Secretary of State for Scotland (right), gave us a unique opportunity to learn first-hand from him of the campaign being organised for the No vote in the Scottish Independence Referendum. Finally, another Club Member, John Vine, Chief Inspector of UK Borders and Immigration Control, has accepted our invitation to join us on 4 December, having been recently in the headlines relating to entry delays at Terminal 5, Heathrow Airport. Colin Buchanan, Chairman and Anthony Westnedge OBE, Vice Chairman

RACING SOCIETY

Racing ahead
Years 2011 and 2012 have been the Societys first attempt at leasing.

e have two high quality horses, but this season has been made difficult by the wet weather, the horses developing at different rates and some minor injuries which have all contributed to them not being able to perform to their potential. However, they have had seven runs this year with Port Charlotte the better at fourth, second, sixth and fourth to date. Shortly the Trustees will be announcing proposals for the formation of the 15th Syndicate. The seven Society events have been very well supported, however our thoughts for a visit for the Ayr Gold Cup proved too costly. Society membership stands at 67 and we welcome our new members and hope they are enjoying our company. Next year we will be arranging activities for the younger members. We owe particular thanks to Member James Stewart and his wife Marie Dominique for a most fascinating visit to their lovely

Wellsummers Stud Farm. We learnt about the fine balance to achieve successful breeding and our thanks for the delicious lunch. On 25th August 24 members enjoyed a box at Goodwood with some exciting racing and reasonably kind weather. Our Annual Dinner on Wednesday 14th November will be very special since we have the well-known author, journalist, and racing broadcaster Brough Scott (left) as our guest speaker. Brough has written seven books including Galloper Jack, the biography of his grandfather. The evening is open to all Club Members and their guests, so please book early. Alec Moir, Chairman
Contact: Eilidh McCombe E ejm@caledonianclub.com T 020 7333 8722

Port Charlotte at Leicester

Racing Society Member visit Wellsummers Stud

WELLSUMMERS STUD

The Making of a Stud Farm

The creation of Wellsummers Farm, visited in May by a group from the Racing Society, began in a flash of inspiration on a London sofa one dank November evening in 1999. James and Marie Dominique Stewart had bred and raced thoroughbred horses on the flat for some 15 years, mainly in partnership with two stud-owning friends in Ireland and France. The equine ventures had been financially successful, both in the sale ring and on the racetrack, so that the complement had increased to five mares and progeny, jointly owned, without the introduction of much capital. Useful knowledge of the bloodstock market had been hard-earned, some quality races won, and a working acquaintance of the stud farms which boarded the mares gained. In the background, a growing question: where would all this lead? The notion to create a stud farm where the Stewarts could live and work was, however, a huge leap of faith, and one that came very suddenly. The family had, potentially, a house to sell, some savings and some (but far from sufficient) bloodstock assets to effectively place on a farm. A search was begun for suitable land, with accommodation a secondary priority at the outset, and we assumed it would take about two years to even identify a suitable project, with late November an unpromising time to start. Professional life in London continued meanwhile. In the event, the 120 acre farm in Wiltshire now known as Wellsummers Stud was seen four weeks later and purchased the following March. The then existing property, in deplorable condition, but including 60 acres of original download grazing and a cattle barn ideal for adaption, stood ready for transformation. The concept of creating a modern stud farm, able to compete effectively in a demanding market, was realised four long years later. During that period, with the owner-developers based in a small cottage at the farm entrance, the process of gaining planning consents (the purchase had been made speculatively), house construction and land and building assets transformation ensued. The stud was finally ready to receive staff and equine residents in May, 2004 when the first of five initial mares and progeny arrived. The years since have seen the establishment of a stud routine, with the peaks and troughs of often intense activity that characterise the year. The foaling down and covering period, January to May, is succeeded by the golden months of tending to growing foals and yearlings and grooming the farm, then the focussed weeks of youngstock preparation ahead of the October and December sales. Increasingly, as mares mature, racing performances of their progeny impacts on morale at the farm and the balance sheet of the business. Since the visit of the Racing Society on a rare sunny day in May, the four runners out of Wellsummers-based mares on the circuit have been placed - two of them first time out - with three colts out of our and client-owned mares scoring repeat wins. One principle underscored by our experience: it's more exciting to breed and own winners that to buy them, and often more rewarding, since they enhance financially their wider equine families. Hope springs eternal for the new kids on the block. James Stewart, Member and Owner of Wellsummers Farm

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MEMBER INTERVIEW

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Sir Tom Farmer

Sir Thomas, Tom Farmer CVO CBE KCSG FRSE DL, a Member since 1979, was born in 1940, the youngest of seven, in a two-bedroomed tenement in Leith. With quite exceptional energy and drive he built Kwik-Fit into a global business which he famously sold to Ford Motor Company for 1.2 billion. A devout Catholic, he owns Hibernian Football Club. He has devoted a great deal of his life to charity and became the first Scot to be awarded the prestigious Andrew Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy. Today he still has a wide range of property and business interests. He spoke to television journalist and Club Member Bill Kerr Elliott.
BKE: Tell me about your early days. TF: I realised just how fortunate I was to have been born into the

The wee corner shop, Tyres and Accessory Supplies, Buccleuch Street, Edinburgh, where it all started

BKE: But what you were doing was illegal. TF: Yes, but the law was eventually changed. We had two important

publications at home, the Bible and The Sunday Post and you believed everything in both. The Sunday Post did an article on me and they asked where I got my tyres from. I told them I met up with suppliers in laybys in the middle of the night, and opened up the shop at 8am. I said the big tyre manufacturers were trying to put me out of business. The front page headline read Tyre King Tommy Squeezed Out By The Big Boys. The next morning there were forty cars queuing up outside the shop. It never stopped, I could hardly cope, but the business took off from there.
BKE: When you set up back in 1964 did you ever dream that you

would become such a huge success? TF : No, the one ambition I had was to make 15 a week, 5 for the rent, 5 for Mum, and 5 to take the girls out at the weekend. I did all right because I went out most weekends.
BKE: You sold the business in 1969 for 450,000 and after a brief

most unbelievable environment. My mother and father were quite simply the greatest you could ever have had, the kind of things text books talk about, and thats what I owe any success in life to. I had a great sense of security and never came home to an empty house. I was a Leither. Leith is the capital of Edinburgh and Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland!
BKE: Aged 15 you set up Kookers Kleaned As New, what was that all about? TF : I was always a chap with high energy, always doing things. When I was 13 or 14 I was always buying second hand bikes, cleaning them up and selling them on. My Mum always hated cleaning the range, as we called it, so I put an advert in the local paper charging five bob a time. I used to go out three nights a week and do two cookers, so that was thirty shillings. BKE: You seem to like the letter K. TF : I was never particularly good at English and spelling was never my

retirement in the States came back to found Kwik-Fit in 1971. TF : I spotted in the States that people were specialising in just brakes or exhausts so thats what I did initially, then all the big tyre companies came knocking at my door again and we built it up dramatically through acquisitions into 2,300 centres in 18 countries. Its very easy, just give the customers what they want. I sold the business to Ford in 1999.
BKE: What made you want to join The Caledonian Club? TF : I was proposed by the Edinburgh lawyer Charles Fraser, Purse

Bearer to the Queen, and when I first saw the grand staircase and elegant public rooms I didnt think it was for the likes of me, but I do now. Its a wonderful Club.

great strength and still isnt, but K for cookers and K for quick just seemed to make sense. It had a certain catchy ring about it and it worked!
BKE: In 1964 you set up Tyre and Accessory Supplies from nothing in a wee corner shop in Edinburgh and as an impoverished student I was one of your early customers. What was the thinking behind that? TF : At that time there was retail price maintenance, so if you sold tyres at a discount you could be prosecuted, but I saw an opportunity and thats what I did. I was just a wee lad from Leith trying to make tyres affordable. Up until then you had to book your car into a garage a week before and pay well over the odds. I kept the tyres inside and I used to jack up the cars outside on the pavement. Often Id get the customers to jack up their own cars and Id just fit the tyres.

Left: Sir Tom Farmer, with Bill Kerr Elliott

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ROUND-UP

St Andrews Day Dinner 2012

Wednesday, 28th November
The President of the Club, Rt Hon Lord Dalhousie, will be in the chair to welcome former Secretary of State for Scotland, Rt Hon Lord Forsyth of Drumlean (below left), who will propose the Toast to Scotland. This is one of the highlights of the Clubs year and the event will be held on Wednesday, 28th November in the Members Dining Room. As this room holds a maximum of 120, Members are asked to book as soon as possible to secure their place. 7.15pm for 7.45pm, Black Tie/Highland evening dress.
Right/below right: Last year's St Andrews Dinner Below: Rt Hon Lord Dalhousie, President of the Club

For further information: E events@caledonianclub.com T 020 7333 8712

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18

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SPOTLIGHT ON: The Caledonian Lecture

Eric Liddell
THE FLYING SCOTSMAN

erhaps it was no surprise to have a full capacity audience for the second of our Caledonian Lectures as this years subject was Eric Liddell and it was given by Sally Magnusson, the Scottish broadcaster and author. In 1981 Sally wrote The Flying Scotsman, a biography of Liddell, to coincide with the film, The Chariots of Fire, which highlighted his achievement in winning a Gold Medal in the 400metres at the 1924 Paris Olympics. The book and the Lecture covered much more of Erics life than the narrow view of the film. Both covered his story from his birth in Tianjin to Scottish missionaries, growing up with the Chinese name Li Airui, attendance at a local school before being enrolled at Eltham College, where he developed his love of sport and,

subsequently, studying at Edinburgh University, where he discovered his talent for running fast! Given that Eric Liddell was born in China, it seemed appropriate that Mr Cong Piewu, the Chinese Charg dAffaires, should introduce the story of Li Airui, reflecting on his life in China as a teacher and missionary until his death in the Japanese Weihsien Internment Camp in 1945 and the continuing importance in China of his achievements in sport. Sally Magnusson then delivered a beautifully structured lecture, drawing at the start on Erics declaration that he ran not for his country but for himself. She proceeded to give a fascinating insight into the character of a man who lived out his life with a passionate Christian faith.

The evening rounded off with an enjoyable dinner, during which Members and friends who had personal knowledge of Liddell reminisced about his family and the making of the film. David Coughtrie Chairman

Sir James Duncan, Mrs Dorothy Clark, Mrs Kerstin Bruno and Angus Clarke CBE

Dorothy Monaghan, Prof Ian Nish, Charles Monaghan, Rona Nish

Guest speaker, Scottish broadcaster and writer, Sally Magnusson

James Fairbairn, Cong Peiwu (Charg d'Affaires at the Chinese Embassy), speaker Sally Magnusson and Chairman David Coughtrie
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ROUND-UP

By yon bonny banks

maintained. The match was played in perfect weather (no midges), with great spirit and hospitality. A match result in favour For a number of years the of the Caledonian was an Caledonian Club Golfing added bonus. Society had a regular match Our grateful thanks against a team from the to Bill Donald, General Loch Lomond Golf Club. Manager, and Donald A great friendship developed Macdonald, Director, between all those who took Membership Services, both part. There have been no of Loch Lomond Golf Club, matches since 2009, whilst for their generous invitation. the future of Loch Lomond All those Members who GC was resolved, but earlier took part are looking this year Loch Lomond Golfing Soc Alex Knox & Bill McDermott forward to 2013 and the became a private members at Loch Lomond GC opportunity to return their club, owned by the hospitality in the south. members. Thanks to our These meetings were originated by Club own Charlie Stewart, who is also a Loch Lomond Member, Alan Orr, and John Maclean of Loch member, the opportunity arose for a private visit. Lomond GC. Both are delighted that there is a In August, a small group of Members were determination from both Loch Lomond and invited to play a friendly match. For those of Caledonian Club members to renew the you who have never played Loch Lomond, it relationship. cannot be recommend highly enough. It is a

The Golfing Society renews its Loch Lomond GC links.

Davids 20 years service

Hes been a stalwart of the Club since before DVDs were invented and last month David Balden celebrated 20 years service as House Manager at the Club. Kelso born-David left Kelso High School in 1987. He studied at Borders College and worked at The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh, before embarking on his long and successful career at the Club. The demanding role of House Manager encompasses overseeing the smooth running of both Reception and Housekeeping, sometimes with long hours through the night at large events. David was one of the first eight in Europe to achieve Certified Club Manager status of the Club Managers Association of Europe. Amongst his proudest moments was completing the London Marathon in 2002, when he raised 2,000 for the Childrens Hospice Association of Scotland (CHAS). He and his partner Lynn have two children, Shane (6) and Jessica (1) and live in Royston, North Hertfordshire. David was presented with a watch and bottle of Club Malt, to commemorate his outstanding service to the Club.

demanding course, beautifully laid out in absolutely stunning surroundings and perfectly

Bill McDermott, Chairman, Membership Committee

Vice President Alex Wilson pictured at the Simon Gillespie Studios where the painting was restored

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READER OFFER

Win 2 hospitality tickets for The Open Championship 2013

As the spectacle unfolds on the course, The Official Open Championship Hospitality Village gives you and your guests the perfect space in which to relax and savour fine food and stimulating company while watching the golf below.

Your award winning hospitality prize will include:

VIP Entrance and parking Relaxed bistro style area Welcome desk with hospitality hosting staff Morning offer of pastries, tea and coffee and the morning papers A sumptuous Chef s Table providing a 3 course lunch offer, featuring local Scottish produce Complimentary house wines, beers and soft drinks throughout the day Afternoon Glenmorangie whisky and canap reception

ituated on Muirfields 9th hole, no other location on the course provides such a setting in which to absorb the atmosphere, build relationships and see the worlds greatest golfers compete for the sports oldest Major. The Official Open Championship Hospitality Village offers the perfect space in which to relax and savour fine food with breakfast, lunch, traditional Open afternoon tea and a complimentary bar service throughout the day. Comprising premier restaurants and exclusive private suites The hospitality pavilion provides a variety of options to suit all tastes, including our Premier Suites, The Gallery Restaurant, The 1860 Club or The Champion Bistro. Caledonian Club members have the chance to win a pair of hospitality tickets for The Open Championship 2013 at Muirfield on Saturday 20th July 2013 courtesy of The Official Open Championship Hospitality.

HOW TO ENTER
To enter this free competition please answer the following multiple choice question: What year was Muirfield Golf Club founded?: A: 1871 B: 1881 C: 1891 To enter the competition please visit: www.TheOpen.com/hospitality

Terms & Conditions: 1. Entry to this free competition is limited to Caledonian Club Members who are aged 18 and over, who are residents of the UK. 2. The prize is 2 hospitality tickets for the Open Championship 2013 at Muirfield on 20 July 2013. 3. The prize will include award winning hospitality, access to the tented village and 2 Official Open Championship admission tickets.4. The prize will be issued in the form of a non-transferable hospitality tickets that will be valid for The Open Championship 2013 only. 5. To enter this competition please visit www.TheOpen.com/hospitality and answer the following multiple choice question: In what year was Muirfield Golf Club founded (a) 1871; (b) 1881; or (c) 1891. 6. Entries will open on 15th November and the closing date for entries will by 12 noon on 29th March 2013 in Great Britain. 7. All correct entries will be put into a hat and the winner drawn at random. 8. Sodexo Prestige would like to contact you with marketing communication from time to time if you are willing to receive correspondence from them, please indicate this in your answer. 9. Entry to this free competition confirms acceptance of these rules. 10. No purchase necessary. 11. The winners name will be available by contacting Kerry.hill@sodexo.com from Sodexo Prestige at One Southampton Row, London, WC1B 5HA. The winner will be notified by post within 5 days of the prize draw date. 13. Only one entry per person is allowed. 14. The promoter is Sodexo Prestige.

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COMING UP

For Your Diary

Dates in purple are a small selection of forthcoming events in and around London. Why not make a weekend of it?

FORTHCOMING EVENT S

Number 9 Lunch
John Vine CBE QPM, Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration. As, Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration, John Vine CBE QPM is responsible for the independent scrutiny of the UK Border Agency and Border Force, reporting directly to the Home Secretary. No stranger to a demanding role, John was Chief Constable of Tayside Police in Scotland from 2000 to 2008, during which he led the policing operation for the G8 World Leaders Summit at Gleneagles. He joined West Yorkshire Police and was subsequently appointed Commander of the Halifax Division in 1992. In 1996 he became Assistant Chief Constable of Lancashire Constabulary and later was President of the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland. One of only two Chief Constable Representatives he served on the board of the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA). John was awarded the Queens Police Medal for distinguished service and a CBE in the 2007 Queens Birthday Honours. He is married to Christine, a solicitor, and has three children.
Tuesday, 4th December 2012 E events@caledonianclub.com T 020 7333 8722

NOVEMBER
5 Mon 6 Tue 9-18 Fri-Sun 10 Sat 13 Tue 14 Wed 22 Thu 23-6 Jan 27 Tue 28 Wed 29 Thu New Members Dinner By invitation only Number 9 Lunch Rt Hon Michael Moore MP London Jazz Festival Various venues Lord Mayor's Show & Firework Display Book Club A Darker Domain by Val McDermid Racing Society Annual Dinner with Brough Scott: see pg 15 Arts Group Visit to Linley Sambourne House: see pg 9 Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park Musical Evening Christina Lawrie (Piano) St Andrews Day Dinner Lord Forsyth: see pg 18 Alba Society Bridge Please reserve

DECEMBER
3 4 4 17 19 Mon Tue Tue Mon Wed Proposers & Seconders Dinner By invitation only Number 9 Lunch John Vine, Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration Book Club The Impossible Dead by Ian Rankin Christmas Carols & Childrens Panto Members' Christmas Lunch

JANUARY
12-20 Sat-Sun 25 Fri London Boat Show ExCel Burns Supper Principal speaker John Sessions

Burns Night 2013

Our Burns Night falls on the Bards birthday Friday, 25th January 2013. John Sessions, an academic before he became a professional actor, who is already well known to the Club, has agreed to propose the Immortal Memory. The centrepiece of the entertainment will be Tam OShanter, but with an intriguing connection between Hollywood and Paisley. Donald Stewart will bring his fiddle and Iain Milne his voice. Chef Hodson is planning to delight the palate; neither will vines and wines nor Scotch Drink be neglected. In short, we expect all our senses to be sated. Members are advised to book early.
Friday, 25th January, 2013 E events@caledonianclub.com W www.caledonianclub.com

FEBRUARY
10 13 19 21 Sun Wed Tue Thu Chinese New Year Year of the snake Golfing Society Social Evening Musical Evening Mitra Alice Tham 25 Year Lunch By invitation only

MARCH
1 2-16 Fri Sat-Sat Scottish Country Dance Evening RBS Six Nations rugby: Calcutta Cup Twickenham (excludes match tickets)

At the time of publication, accommodation was available at the Club for all of the above dates. Double rooms for Members are 160 weekdays, 120 Fri-Sun (guests: 180 & 140 respectively), singles: 125 weekdays & 100 Fri-Sun (guests: 145 & 120). Price includes a hearty Scottish breakfast and VAT. Why not make a weekend of it?

Scottish Country Dance Evenings

These events are some of the most popular in the Clubs calendar. They were started as informal events to complement the Summer Ball and allow participants to dress more casually and enjoy the company, food and drink as much as the music and dancing. Frank Thomson from Aberdeen on accordion will provide his superb selection of tunes. There is no need to be a proficient dancer: MCs James Fairbairn and Davinia Miln will lead the way with simple-tofollow instructions. The aim maximum fun for the greatest number of people.
Friday, 1st March 2013 Friday, 4th October 2013 T 020 7333 8722 E events@caledonianclub.com W www.caledonianclub.com

For further information on Club events, call 020 7333 8722

New Members Dinners

The long tradition of the New Members Dinners continues, with newcomers enjoying the company and conviviality of these regular occasions. On joining the Club, new Members and their first guest are invited to a complimentary reception and dinner as guests of the Club, but may bring as many further guests as they wish.

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The Caledonian

AUTUMN 2012

ADVERTORIAL

Raise a dram with Bowmore...

Celebrate the arrival of The Bowmore Room at The Caledonian Club with Islays first Single Malt whisky
to The Caledonian Club. Islay is a tough place to get to, so we hope The Bowmore Room will truly bring to life the essence of Islay as well as our award winning Single Malt". Founded over two centuries ago in 1779, Bowmore is the first recorded distillery on Islay and one of the oldest in Scotland. Using time-honoured traditions, little has changed in the way Bowmore produce exceptional Single Malts; they still carefully smoke their malt in a peat-fired kiln just as their ancestors did over 200 years ago. The whiskies then spend their long lives resting in the legendary No.1 Vaults, the oldest maturation warehouse in Scotland. We ask you to come on in to The Bowmore Room, experience the magical island of Islay, and take in a dram of Bowmore in the heart of London's finest Scottish private members club.

Sharing the same underlying values of quality, tradition and the desire to celebrate Scottish culture, Bowmore and the Club make perfect partners. In The Bowmore Room, guests can look forward to being taken on a sensory journey of discovery to Bowmores magical island home of Islay. From whisky-pairing events to

A Taste of Islay evenings; from Burns Suppers to Caledonian Lectures, The Bowmore Room will play host to a range of exciting events for Members and guests alike. Cara Laing, Bowmore Marketing Manager commented "We are very excited to bring a little taste of our magical island of Islay

AUTUMN 2012

The Caledonian

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