M25 networking event September 2006

A cross section of those attending the event

On 7 September about 50 members of the M25 Consortium attended an evening reception at 170 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington. This was the second such evening event, intended to promote networking amongst Consortium members. The first was held at SOAS in November 2005 and was so popular that it was decided to make it an annual occasion. The venue for this year’s reception was delightful - the ground floor rooms of a Victorian townhouse belonging to Imperial College. The house was designed by the eminent Victorian architect, Norman Shaw and the rooms opened onto an attractive garden – quite a rarity in central London. We were told that the Rector of Imperial lived upstairs, but fortunately our networking did not become so lively as to prompt any complaints about the noise.

The reception was attended by representatives of some institutions who have recently joined the Consortium, as well as those from long-established members. It was good to see members of working groups as well as M25 Directors and Steering Group members. The weather was kind, with a balmy evening which encouraged some of our number into the garden. The service from the Imperial conference centre staff was outstanding, with food and drink always available when wanted but without being obtrusive. A photographer was on hand to record the occasion and capture some images to add to the database being compiled by the Advocacy Working Group for future M25 publications. The attached photographs capture the spirit of the occasion, showing M25 members networking effectively but also having a pleasant evening at the end of a hard day’s work.

William Marsterson, J Adam Edwards & Sue Clegg

Richard Osborn, Fiona O'Brien & Robert Hall (M25 Chair)

Nicky Kershaw, John Wolstenholme & Brian Murphy

John Gilby & Jane Harrington