A very enjoyable and successful evening was enjoyed by 80 guests in the Officers Mess at Carver Barracks Saturday the 12th of April. The Guest of Honour for the Evening was His Excellency, Chandra Kumar Ghimire, the Amabassador of Nepal and his Charming wife, Mrs. Sarita Gurung. Tina Knight, President of the Tang Ting Twinning Association, said it was amazing how many Nepalese Ambassadors have honoured such a small local Charity over the years, but it is the very fact that it has been recognised as a totally non-profit making Charity, run by local residents, all of whom are volunteers, with all the proceeds collected through the year going to Nepal that has impressed them
A number of familiar Military Personnel, that have served at Carver Barracks, came back to attend the dinner. A familiar face to many was our local hero, Col. (retired) Callum Skeat who was delighted to see many old friends both Military and Civilian. There was much leg-pulling with Lt.Col. (retired) Mick Garcia and Major Steve Marsh who have over the years served together. Cll. Lachhya Gurung, headed the Nepalese contingency which consisted of many of the Gurkhas and their wives (dressed in beautiful traditional dress which drew many a compliment from the guests) Jit Gurung, Senior U.N. Admin Officer in the Central African Republic, has worked behind the scenes for many years in co-ordinating things for the dinner but, had never been able to make the event. This year he finally made the journey from Bangui, Central African Republic, to London via Kigali, Rwanda as there were no direct flights to London, taking him 14 hours, with just enough time for a quick shower and then 3 hours to the Barracks – no sleep, no wonder the Gurkhas have such a tremendous history for strength and valour!!
The Music was supplied by the Local ‘Fiesta Flutes who were an absolute triumph, so many people commented on their performance, we are keeping our fingers crossed for a repeat performance!
The Ambassador was so impressed by the warmth shown to him and his wife that has asked if the TTTA can reach out to Walkers, Climbers and people interested in visiting Nepal, as he would like to personally invite some of local residents to the Nepalese Embassy on 29th May where they will be Celebrating the first time of Conquering of Everest and showing many of the amazing sights of Nepal**
None of this wonderful evening would have been possible without the support and generosity of local business and residents. A special thank you to Debden Barns who have done so much and the villages of Wimbish, Radwinter, Wendons Ambo and the stalwart support of the Debden Community Residents Association.
** Anybody wishing to be attend this event please email nc@nighthawk.co.uk or ring Nikki on 01799 540881 for further information.
