News - Reports

The famous GAG Christmas lunch took place on 28 November this year, bringing early festive cheer to over 200 members and guests. The event was kindly sponsored by Ellwood & Atfield, and hosted at the Houses of Parliament by GAG's good friend Lord McNally.

Pre-lunch drinks were, as ever, an opportunity for friends, colleagues and contacts to get together and exchange stories, information and gossip. At the lunch itself, GAG Chairman Keith Johnston welcomed the assembled throng and gave a lively report of the GAG highlights of 2008. He also paid tribute to Chris Andrew, GAG member and friend to many of us, who tragically died of cancer just days earlier.

Keith went on to introduce our guest speaker, Anthony Howard, the veteran political journalist, broadcaster and author. Tony gave us an illuminating, amusing and interesting insight into the last few decades of British political history – stories of Prime Ministers, bishops and journalists abounded. Many thanks to Tony for a thoroughly entertaining speech!

The indefatigable Steve Atack then gave the annual Charity Appeal, which this year was on behalf of New Ways, who will put the money donated towards building a clinic for deaf boys and girls in the Turkana region of Kenya. If you haven't already done so, please give generously.

Post-lunch, many revellers decanted to the Barley Mow pub for further refreshments, kindly sponsored by the PRCA. All in all, it was another enjoyable, successful and fun event. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!