ASC dines in style at the House of Lords

06 Feb 09

Lord Imbert of New Romney – one of the Patrons of the Association of Security Consultants (ASC) – recently hosted a dinner at the House of Lords for ASC members and their guests.

By Janet Smytherman

As expected, security clearance at Black Rod’s Garden Entrance was mandatory. All attendees were then required to pass through the Royal Court to the Cholmondeley Room. Many took the opportunity to participate in guided tours of both the House of Lords and the House of Commons Chambers and surrounding rooms.

To their credit, some even braved the cold weather to venture outside and take in the stunning views of the Thames and the London skyline from the Commons Terrace.

Lord Imbert’s introductory delivery

Lord Imbert was in fine form and gave an extremely entertaining welcome speech at an event organised thanks to some sterling work (as always) from ASC secretary Laurie Doust.

In response, Roy Sutherland thanked everyone present for making it such a special occasion and said that he was looking forward, as the new ASC chairman, to leading and focusing the direction of the Association over the next few years. “We’re also looking forward to welcoming many new members,” said Sutherland.

The evening was extremely well supported. Attendees included Jack Case, an honoured guest from the USA’s equivalent of the ASC. Board members seen to be enjoying the proceedings included John Benton and Nigel Fowler (founder ASC Directors), Jon Laws (the Association’s deputy chairman), Chris Roberts (treasurer), Gordon Herrald, Allan Hildage and Simon Whitehouse.

Many other ASC members joined in the celebrations, including Francis Odutayo, the newest student member.

An eclectic menu enjoyed by all

Excellent wine accompanied a delicious dinner comprising an unusual combination of russet apple, rye and celeriac soup as the starter, braised lamb shank for the main course (with an alternative of lentil and winter vegetable Shepherd’s Pie for the vegetarians) and traditional creme brulee with Bailey’s for dessert. Coffee and delicious chocolate truffles rounded the evening off nicely.

The ASC’s Annual Dinner has now become such a popular event on the Association’s calendar that, like many of the Business Club meetings, it’s invariably oversubscribed well in advance.