In the middle of Twickenham’s residential area is a historical gem worth seeing. This is what members of BAFUNCS Surrey did on 2 July as our Summer outing.  The House was originally built by Horace Walpole in 1749, and since he felt his family had a long and glorious history, his house should reflect this. Consequently he built a house in Gothic style with turrets and other gothic features, being the house that inspired the later Gothic Revival style of architecture. It was elaborately decorated in the latest fashion of the mid-1700, and while all the belongings were later sold off, much has now been bought back or donated to the House. We enjoyed learning of the history of the house, seeing the splendid rooms, and having lunch in the lovely garden. Karen Jorgensen

All members welcome! The OVS Geneva area Summer lunch will take place on Tuesday, 11 August at 12h15 at one of our favourite places – La Table du Lac, 2981 Rue Tour du Lac, 01220 Divonne-les-Bains. There is a fixed menu with a choice of starters, main courses and desserts (two courses for €25, three courses for €28) and also à la carte. This message is being sent to all OVS members in case any of you are in the Geneva area at this time and of course members from other regions are also welcome to join us. Could you please let me know by Thursday, 6 August if you plan to attend.  Best wishes, Mary Hamouda Regional Representative OVS

The Oxford Region Summer lunch was held on 17th June at the King William IV pub in the small village of Ipsden in the Chiltern Hills. A total of 18 people attended, included one from the LON region. The group had a pleasant time, and enjoyed excellent food and service. Stephen Rudgard (Regional Representative) made a few announcements at the end of the meal, including promoting the upcoming Annual Reunion in Cardiff in September.

It is still not too late to book your place at the Cardiff Annual Reunion on 13 to 15 September 2026 at the Majestic Hotel. The hotel still has rooms available, and the BAFUNCS concessional price on rooms has been extended until 31st July.  A list of participants who have already registered can be found here. We hope you will join us to meet friends old and new. There are spaces left on all three excursions on 14 June, so those who haven’t yet done so can sign up and add another dimension to the Reunion! Cardiff Castle is a medieval fortress with lavish Victorian gothic interiors which stands in the heart of the City and just a short walk from the Hotel. A private guided tour has been organised for us which should be fascinating. National Trust Tredegar House (photo below right) set in a 90 acre park and is one of the most significant late 17th Century houses in the British Isles. Transport is provided. A guided walking tour of Cardiff Bay with a blue badge guide. Formerly the biggest coal exporting dockland, there is lots to find out about the history, the multicultural roots, the decline and subsequent regeneration of this area sitting on the edge of the river Taff and Ely. We will make the short journey via local transport. AR 2026 Cardiff Invitation AR 2026 Cardiff Registration Form