What a year it has been!

In a whirlwind of activity we seem to have arrived in December with less of the gentle descent I would have hoped for, but in more of an homage to the crazy weather and global politics of 2024.

For those of you who dip in to OB news only occasionally you may note that the expected order of transition from our fabulous departing President, Gemma Brunton (née Saye) to the safe hands of the Vice President Janey de Borchgrave d'Altena, has not materialised as listed. Instead it has endured a slightly clumsy interception by me, Dom Haigh (Lyon 88-93 - for those wanting to sling house mud for old times sake!). This slight diversion from the expected course allows Janey and Simon the essential space and time to introduce their daughter Tabitha (Tiggy), born earlier this year, to the OBA amongst other of life's essentials. Janey has agreed to step across to be my VP ready to take the reins in November 2027 if all goes well, and possibly vie for the title of longest running VP of the OBA to date!

The 2024 London Lunch was another huge success with tickets sold out within hours and with much laughter, singing and delighted jeers radiating around Ironmonger's Hall once again. We powered through Jerusalem and the school song, for which I must proclaim my thanks to James Strevens for dragging us along, musically speaking, with such diplomacy and endeavour.

This year's London Lunch was marked by the welcome increase of younger OB's, thanks in no small part to Gemma Brunton's and Emilie's tireless work promoting the OBA events and Association benefits. It was amazing to see leavers from years as close as 2021, and this early adoption of the OBA events is something we definitely want to encourage moving forwards.

We are genuinely thrilled to be better represented by the broader age demographic and I hope to continue this accession of the younger OB's to OBA prominence, not only because it is formally written into our constitution, to promote unity among all Old Brutonians, but also because it brings fresh energy and ideas into our Association.

2024 has brought us face to face with Ian Wilmshurst's retirement news, and whilst we wish him and Helen the very best for the future, he will be missed as a truly remarkable headmaster. We remind ourselves that for 16 years Ian has made King's Bruton shine on so many stages of excellence. I have no doubt that Ian will be sorely missed both in the school, and by Old Brutonians alike. We wait excitedly to welcome him to the future OB events as an Honorary OB.

With a new OBA President in seat there are no doubt fresh expectations for the OBA, some of which we will try to fulfill. However, others we may have to admit are beyond the scope and reach of the committee, but it won't stop us discussing every idea that you give us: so please do send over all that inspiration for our bright future! 

My intentions within the OBA are rather simple;

1. To continue the search for effective channels of communication with all OB's,

2. Drive the aspirations of the OBA forwards through the committee, social events, news and updates, mentoring and OB support,

3. Create a clear picture of OBA activities and events through the year to maximise OB's ability to attend,

4. Continue the OBA's supportive and independant links to King's School Bruton,

5. Maintain the health and security of the OBA in it's own right, independent of political or financial pressures.

It feels about the right time to celebrate all that we have achieved in 2024 and to set our sights on the festive celebrations ahead.

I would like to wish you all the very warmest of the Seasons Greetings and a safe, happy and bountiful New Year.

I can't wait to see and hear from you all over the course of 2025.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year,

Dom