I recently enjoyed the privilege and pleasure of writing the letter of welcome to all the new “boys” turning 70 in 2018.

The induction of these Old Boys into the 70 Club swelled the total number of school leavers eligible to join our club to roughly 2000 but alas, and understandably, infirmity, prior commitments and distance severely limit the ability of some members to take full advantage of what the 70 Club at Newington has to offer.

From small beginnings at the instigation of Ron Leckie (ON 1939), the club can now boast to be an organisation growing in stature while still remaining true to its roots.  Roots that simply aim to engage those Old Newingtonians as they reach the age of 70 and keep them in touch with their peers and friends. Roots that facilitate the opportunity for Newington Old Boys over the age of 70 to either gather together over lunch, or simply contact one another, for a chance to reminisce about past years and catch up on current news.  Informal, relaxed and social.

Fortunately we also enjoy the full support of the Headmaster and College in those endeavours and this, our twentieth year, will culminate in our 20th Birthday Lunch on Tuesday May 8.  An informal, inexpensive and very enjoyable day.

It is also 60 years since Newington’s Cadet Band was formed by Jack Butler in conjunction with Phil Davis in 1958 and we understand that the Headmaster has something special in mind for us in what will be his farewell lunch with his many friends at the 70 Club.

I am excited about our lunch on May 8 and not only look forward to greeting familiar faces but many more new and lapsed 70 Club members on the day.  Please note the date in your diary and phone a mate or two now to organise your table.

Gilbert Morgan (ON 1958)

Chairman – The 70 Club