Third Anniversary Dinner
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Posted by Michael Barton, on 04 Sep 2010 10:53   

iFrom left to right: Lt Col Simon Bell, Moray Bayliss (Chairman TTTA), Gau Gurung, (Hon President TTTA), HE Dr Suresh Chandra Chalise (Nepalese Ambassador), Kell Ryan (Co-founder Ryan Airways), District Cllr Tina Knight (President TTTA).

Another successful community event took place with the TTTA Anniversary Dinner held on 15th May 2010 at the Officers Mess, Carver Barracks.  We were honoured with the presence of the Nepalese Ambassador, HE Dr Suresh Chandra Chalise and his wife Dr Milan Adhikary, the Commanding Officers from Carver Barracks, along with local residents and representatives from businesses in the local and surrounding area.  The evening was great fun and provided ample opportunity for guests to mingle, integrating the two villages with the Nepalese community and Carver Barracks.

After an excellent five course meal, during which guests were serenaded by Barefoot Roses, the diners sat back to enjoy the speeches.  His Excellency Dr Suresh Chandra Chalise spoke about his role in raising the profile of the Nepalese nation with the current difficulties.  Lt. Col. Barrett gave an informative and humorous overview of the issues concerning life at Carver Barracks with 33 and 101 Engineer Regiments, pointing out the historical connection between 101 Engineer Regiment and the 1st Middlesex Volunteer Engineers formed in 1860 at Fulham.  The main after dinner speaker was Kell Ryan, co-founder of Ryan Air, who regaled diners with many anecdotes concerning his involvement with the aeronautical industry.

After the speeches, it was the turn of Tim Turner of Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers to auction the many items generously donated by supporters of the Twinning Association.  Highlights included a signed limited edition litho of Glengarin by HRH The Prince of Wales and an amazing opportunity to spend the day with 33 Engineer Regiment which included a slap-up lunch and the chance to gain an insight into bomb disposal work; both of which managed to raise truly marvellous sums.

The evening raised the magnificent sum of £10,600 which, after deductions for expenses, means TTTA will not only be in a position to start work on extending the Day Care Centre for the younger children, but can bring the hostel project, designed to encourage employment in the village, another step closer to fruition.