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                                        John Bacon and Peter Booth at the RAF Club in 2023THE STERNIANS’ ASSOCIATIONPresident’s LetterI was delighted that as part of the Centenary project, a bronze bust of the College Founder, Baron Sydney James Stern, Lord Wandsworth, has been created and is in its rightful place at the heart of the College which his vision and bequest made possible. Two other recent events reinforce my pride and pleasure at being part of the Sternian community. The celebration of the life of Sternian, Julian Sands, was obviously a sad occasion but was also a celebration. Over a hundred Sternian contemporaries, as well as members of Julian’s family, gathered to hear moving but often amusing tributes to Julian, and also to speak about the friendship and support that they all received in their days at the College and the quality of cultural life. The afternoon gave a real insight into life in the 1970s and the gratitude felt for bonds of friendship forged that have stood the test of time.Sternians also enjoyed the recent lunch held at the Royal Air Force Club in Piccadilly. The meal, wines and conversation matched the elegant surroundings. I was delighted that the event this year was extended to Dear Sternians,A century is generally to be celebrated. The LWC Centenary celebrations, culminating in the wonderful Centenary Festival weekend and the marvellous Centenary Book, certainly did justice to this important milestone in the history of the College. No one could fail to enjoy the Centenary weekend and its immense variety of activities (and food!) that showcased the achievements and culture of the College over the years and the bonds of friendship that they generated. It was so good to meet up with Sternians of all ages in this atmosphere and to celebrate together; many also to mark their appreciation of The Foundation that opened up so many opportunities to them. My congratulations to the Centenary Team who did a fantastic job in arranging the exciting events that appealed to varied interests and Sternian generations. Visitors to the College could not fail to be aware of the Centenary and the pride felt in reaching this landmark, as well as it being part of the College history and its future. Sternians of all generations and I can heartily recommend next year’s lunch. Finally, I would like to express our profound thanks to the recent Chairman, John Bacon. I thoroughly enjoyed working with him and his commitment to the Association has been total. John took over the reins as Chairman in 2017 and in his time in the chair, despite the fact that he lived some way away in Kent, he attended virtually every Sternian event. His time in post covered the difficult years of the Covid lockdowns but he helped steer us through that and his cheerful presence was soon part of the Sternians scene again. He agreed to serve a second term but sadly, ill health forced him to step down before its completion. Happily, he is progressing well. We are fortunate that in the meantime, Simon Clements stepped in to act as Chairman, a role he filled so ably 2006-9.My very best wishes to all Sternians.PETER BOOTH10

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