PRESIDENT'S NIGHT AT MINSTEAD LODGE.

PRESIDENT'S NIGHT                                                       PHOTOS BY RAY DAWES.

We had a most enjoyable evening at Minstead Lodge, a beautiful hospitality venue owned by the Minstead Trust. The sun really shone on us on the terrace where we had a welcome drink and enjoyed entertainment by Annalise, the singer, who also sang to us in an adjacent room after dinner..

In the oak panelled dining room the dinner itself and the service were first class. After President Philip's speech we were treated to a speech by Maddy, one of the Lodge's residents and an Ambassador for the Trust  who gave a charming and heart warming speech of thanks on behalf of the guests. 

Two of the President's Charities are The Minstead Trust and Wessex Cancer Care and Philip presented cheques to Charlotte von Sicard of Wessex Cancer Care and to Graham Waters, Vice Chairman of Minstead Trust.  

President Philip also took the opportunity to induct three new members into Rotary. Bridget Gook was well know to us and had been organising and assisting at a number of events in recent years. Jane Wilson Brown, a previous member, had had a break on family matters and was welcomed back as a member. James McAteer joined us as a new member, introduced by Steve Timms.  They were warmly welcomed. 

Overall a most enjoyable evening, in beautiful and well organised surroundings. JR

President Philip sent a letter of thanks to Minstead Trust and they publishes the following in their newsletter:-

"Minstead Lodge were delighted to be chosen by the Rotary Club of New Forest as the venue for their President's Night. 

Philip Dinn, President of Rotary Club of New Forest said: 'I just wanted to thank you all for a wonderful June evening at Minstead Lodge. The peaceful location, with the panoramic views from the terrace, was perfect for our drink’s reception, with the backup side room should the weather have been inclement 

I have had a lot of feedback from our members and they all praised the settings, both inside and outside, and the food. Many were unaware of the Lodge hospitality but now consider it a jewel in the crown of the New Forest.As your local Rotary Club, we were especially pleased that not only that we could support the social enterprise of Minstead Trust but enjoyed doing it. It was a pleasure to know that your hospitality students had been involved in the kitchen, and your student ambassador Maddy stole the show when it came to speeches. A very good evening and we will recommend you for future events.'