On Wednesday 7 October, we hosted the 60+ Lunch Club at The City Livery Club, tucked away on the banks of the Thames in the heart of the City of London. The elegant riverside setting was the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of reconnection and celebration.

Guests were welcomed with a drink before sitting down to a delicious lunch, with conversation and wine flowing freely as OJs shared stories, rekindled friendships and caught up with contemporaries, some for the first time in many years. 

The atmosphere was one of warmth, nostalgia and genuine joy, as guests reflected on their time at Hurst and the paths their lives have taken since. The room buzzed with laughter and storytelling, and it was a wonderful reminder of the enduring strength of the Hurst community.

The highlight of the afternoon was an address from guest speaker Baroness Virginia Bottomley, who reflected on her years in Cabinet and her long career in public life. Sharing a wealth of stories and behind-the-scenes insights, she held the room with her warmth and wit, and her remarks sparked lively conversation that carried on well into the afternoon.

We were also delighted to be joined by Dominic Mott, Head of Hurstpierpoint College, and by Oliver Rodbourne, incoming President of the OJ Club, who greatly enjoyed meeting so many OJs.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Baroness Bottomley for her engaging contribution to the day, and a huge thank you to Robin Field-Smith for so generously providing the venue. Our thanks also go to everyone who joined us and made the afternoon so special.

Following its return last year, the 60+ Lunch Club has once again proved to be a cherished fixture in the Hurst calendar, and we look forward to welcoming even more OJs next year.

In the meantime, we extend a warm invitation to all OJs to visit us at the College whenever they can, whether for a tour, a cup of tea, or simply to reconnect with the place that shaped so many lives.