Page 12 - The Gazette Autumn 2024

12 The Gazette QARANC Association
QARANC history marked at beautiful
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace, once home to King Henry VIII and a favourite of tourists, was a fitting venue for the QARANC to celebrate its own page in history.
Tickets for the 75th anniversary event on Thursday 27 June were highly sought after, and no wonder: after all it’s not every day you get to dine in a magnificent Palace such as this and to enjoy the spectacular gardens for a private event.
The day started with a celebration of the Corps’ history at Keogh Barracks, before guests got into their finest gowns and suits for main event at Hampton Court on the banks of the Thames at East Molesey.
It was a beautifully calm summer evening, a brass band playing as guests passed under the awe- inspiring Palace archway and everyone assembled in the gardens where drinks and canapés were served.
“There was plenty of time for catching up with friends old and new in the beautiful surroundings,” said Sue Shrimpton from Jurassic Coast branch. Her group also included Marjorie Bandy, Dominee
There was plenty of time for catching up with friends old and
new in the beautiful surroundings
Barrett, Sue Alun-Jones and our former Colonel Commandant Carol Kefford. Her successor Col Andrea Lewis was present, as was Chief Nursing Officer Col Paul Jackson.
Sue continued: “When the call came for dinner, we were led through the Palace to the Great Hall so actually got a tour as well! The Army Medical Service band played during the meal which greatly added to the atmosphere in the hall.”
A sumptuous three-course meal followed, along with speeches, and conversation flowed at the tables. The evening came to an end all too soon, but everyone left with memories of an unforgettable experience. We are delighted that Hampton Court’s official photographer, Hayley Bray, was on hand to capture some of the highlights, reproduced here.