The Ceremony of The Keys at The Tower of London - Mon 13 September 2010

Time: 7.15 pm - 10.00 pm
Cost: £15 (members) £20 (non-members)

Every night the Tower of London is secured by the Chief Warder who makes his way to the gates from the Byward Tower at exactly 9.53 pm. Once all the Tower gates are locked and the guard checked, the last post is sounded by a trumpeter and the ceremony is concluded. This ceremony represents a 700 years old tradition; The Chief Warder represents the Yeoman Warders (more commonly but incorrectly known as “Beefeaters”) who have looked after the Tower since the 14th century. Today in addition to their ceremonial duties, they perform the role of tour guides.

This visit will be complemented by a buffet supper in the Yeoman Warder’s mess. Members should assemble at 7.15 pm sharp at the west gate of the Tower of London for a tour of the Tower, including the Chapel, which is not normally open to visitors. The tour lasts about an hour after which drinks and a cold buffet supper will be served at the Yeoman Warders Club. (Please note children under 16 are not allowed in the club). The Ceremony of the Keys takes place at 9.30 pm after which members may return to the Yeoman Warders Club for a final drink.

The cost of the tour and the buffet supper, and drinks can be purchased for cash. The dress code is smart casual with jacket and ties for men, please note that no jeans are allowed.

(This event is now fully booked.)

Society Autumn Dinner - Tuesday 21 September 2010

Guest Speaker: Tony Tyler, Chief Executive, Cathay Pacific Airways
Venue: Zen China, County Hall (1st Floor), South Bank, London SE1 7PB
Time: 6.30pm (cash bar), 7.30pm (reception), 8.00pm (dinner)
Cost: £46 (members) £55 (non-members)

The Hong Kong Society is particularly happy that Mr Tony Tyler, Chief Executive of Cathay Pacific Airways, has accepted its invitation to be the Guest of Honour at the Autumn Dinner on 21 September 2010.

Many members have good reason for hearing how Cathay Pacific is competing with the current pressures. Mr Tyler will be able to give a prognosis for the future and will also give members an update on the current commercial situation in Hong Kong, China and the region.

Tony Tyler joined John Swire & Sons in 1977 and moved to Cathay Pacific in 1978. He became Chief Executive of the airline in July 2007. He is also Chairman of Hong Kong Dragon Airlines Ltd and a Director of John Swire & Sons (H.K.) Ltd and Swire Pacific Ltd. He is a graduate of Oxford University.

This dinner is being held at the Zen China Restaurant, County Hall, partly because the society has long wanted to have a Chinese style dinner and also partly so as to ensure that the costs of attendance are kept at a reasonable level for all members.

The restaurant has a fine terrace overlooking the Thames and, if weather permits, the cash bar, which will open at 6.00pm, will be there. County Hall is a big complex and a map will be sent to all those attending. It is within easy walking distance of Waterloo Station.

The cost will include a 3 course dinner with half a bottle of wine each at your table. No tickets will be issued. Dress will be lounge suits.

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