156 members and friends of the BRA celebrated the Queen’s Birthday on 15 June in the beautiful garden at the Cologny home in Geneva of Ambassador Peter Gooderham, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and his wife Carol. Our warmest thanks go to them for their gracious hospitality.
Overlooking the lake of Geneva, the house and garden have the air of an English country estate and the splendid weather added to the magical atmosphere.
Happy to meet up with new and old friends, we were greeted with a traditional glass of Pimms. The team of helpers, led most competently by Di Klein, tempted us with delicious canapés, the wine flowed and conversations became animated. Entertainment was provided by the jazz band, “Moonlight Quartet”. The music was so enjoyable that a few dancing enthusiasts could be seen swaying to the great rhythms of traditional and modern jazz.
In proposing the Loyal Toast, Ambassador Gooderham expressed deep respect for the Queen and reflected on her life-long commitment to our Nation and the Commonwealth. A letter from the Palace to the BRA was read by Romandie West Regional Chairman, Pam Walsh OBE, and BRA Councillor, Ted Talbot, read a message from our National Chairman, Michael Type, who unfortunately could not be with us due to a relative’s 90th Birthday in Britain.
For the first time ever, each person at the QBP received an entry pass and these were used for a draw at the end of the evening. Mrs Sandy Cunningham won a bottle of Pimms and Ms Yanina Cohen won a year’s free subscription to the BRA!
The QBP was so successful that as the sun set beyond the Jura, adding a glow to the lake below, everyone was reluctant to leave the magic garden to return to everyday life.
You can see all the photos here.
Jennifer West