Service
above Self
News
2015/2016
President’s Trip to London
Rotary group infront of Big Ben
President Ken chose London as his location for the annual President’s Trip. Eighteen Rotarians along with partners departed from Dublin Airport on Thursday 14th April on a flight to Gatwick, London. On arrival the group boarded a coach for transfer to their hotel in Victoria. There was little time to settle in to the hotel, as a visit to Westminster had been organised by Tom Elliott MP. The group arrived at Westminster and were given a tour of the building, Tom outlined the workings of Parliament, the group also had the opportunity to sit in on a debate in the House of Commons, some members found it rather boring and were seen to have nodded off, but this is a common occurrence at Westminster!!! The tour finished with a visit to the souvenir shop, and then it was back to the hotel.
Later in the evening the group dressed up and returned to Westminster for a meal in the House of Lords which was hosted by Lord Rogan. With everyone looking their best, club photographer Roy Crawford took a group photograph with Big Ben in the background. On arrival in The Attlee Room we were treated to a drinks reception. An excellent three course meal was served by the staff along with some more wine. Lord Rogan, Tom Elliott MP and his Secretary joined us for the meal.
The Attlee Room
On Friday we were given a history tour by Rotarians Brendan and Ann McCann, which covered areas such as Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, Horse Guards and Buckingham Palace. During this walking trip we had the opportunity to visit St. Martins-in-the Field church where most of the group had lunch in the café under the church. On Friday night most of us went to the Apollo Theatre to see the show Wicked.
On Saturday we walked to Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard, and then under the guidance of Rotarian John Trimble some members took the scenic route to The Grenadier Pub which is located close to the Palace. Saturday afternoon and evening members were free to do as they wished.
Sunday morning it was time to vacate our rooms. During our visit to The Guards Museum Brendan informed the group that there was a service in The Guards Chapel, so several members returned to the Chapel for morning service, music was provided by the Band of The Irish Guards. After lunch it was time to board the coach for the trip back to Gatwick for our return flight on Sunday evening.
All Rotarians and partners had an enjoyable trip to London and thanks were expressed to President Ken for an excellent choice of venue, and President Elect Kenny for making arrangements leading up to the trip.
