The 148th OT Dinner was held in the Long Room at Lord's on Thursday 10 October and the OT Society were delighted to welcome 200 OTs spanning eight decades. Our current Head of School, Ethan (PS) had the pleasure of meeting the most senior OT there, and a fellow Parksider, Brigadier Anthony Vivian (PS 46-51).

OTs enjoyed a glass or two of fizz in the wonderful and historic MCC Museum, before moving through to the beautiful Long Room. The evening began with an informative speech from Ethan, the current Headboy (PS), talking about his time at Tonbridge and the changes at the School. This was followed by Grace in Latin given by Reverend Fergus Butler-Gallie (PS 05-10).

A delicious three-course meal followed, Duo of Scottish Salmon, Confit Belly of Pork and Chocolate and Coffee Nemesis whilst the wine flowed.

The President of the OT Society, Gerald Corbett DL (JH 65-70 and former Chairman of the Marylebone Cricket Club) was present as was the OTS Committee Chairman, Richard Hough (PH 79-84) and the Headmaster, James Priory.

We were also delighted to welcome several of our outstanding sportsmen including Ben Earl, Toby Pettman, Marcus O'Riordan, several members of the Cricketer Cup team including Ed Hyde, Julian O'Riordan and Freddie Geffen and quite a few members of the OT Football Club. The OT Golfers were also well represented.

Following toasts to King Charles III, the Pious Memory of Sir Andrew Judde and Tonbridge School, guests enjoyed coffee, port and petits fours. Gerald Corbett delivered an entertaining speech, sharing anecdotes from his time as MCC Chairman, including a notable dispute over the Nursery Ground. He also fondly recounted the 1968 House Cup Cricket Final between Judde House and Ferox Hall, introducing several players from that memorable match.

The evening’s speeches concluded with an amusing address by James Priory, who reflected on the School’s good health and paid tribute to the long-serving, cherished members of the Common Room who have passed away in the past year.

Carriages were at 10.30 and reports are that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the event. 

View our photos of the event below: (you need to be logged in to Tonbridge Connect to view photo albums)