The Monastic Barn welcomed 73 guests in black tie on Saturday 10 October, as Old Eleans returned to King's Ely for one of the most anticipated occasions in the Club's calendar.

For some, the Annual Dinner was an opportunity to catch up with familiar faces; for others, a chance to return to the School and enjoy an evening in the company of fellow Old Eleans.

Following drinks in the Lower Hall, guests made their way to the beautifully prepared Monastic Barn for a three-course dinner.

The menu opened with smoked salmon cannelloni, served with horseradish crème fraîche, apple, fennel, cucumber and dill. Guests then enjoyed chicken stuffed with cep and tarragon, accompanied by a confit leg croquette, potato fondant, glazed leek, cavolo nero and roast chicken jus. Warm treacle tart with Bramley apple, cultured cream ice cream and lemon thyme brought the meal to a close.

A Familiar Face with Plenty of Stories to Tell

Taking centre stage after dinner was guest speaker Chris Marshall (Acremont 1984–86; King's Ely 1986–95), who brought his distinctive sense of humour to the Monastic Barn.

A former member of Wilkinson House, Chris has spent 25 years entertaining audiences as a pantomime dame, and had plenty of tales from his years in the theatre to share with fellow Old Eleans.

He also reflected on growing up with King's very much a part of family life. His father, John Marshall, was a longstanding member of staff whose connection with the School spanned many years.

John sadly passed away in June 2025. His contribution to King's and the many lives he touched are remembered in his obituary, which can be read here.

Chris's entertaining address brought plenty of laughter to the Barn and was a memorable part of the evening.

A Special Honour for Rosie

There was also a moment of recognition for someone who has been at the heart of the King's community for more than five decades.

Old Eleans President Jo Dick presented Rosie Holliday-Dowdy with Honorary Membership of the Old Eleans Club in recognition of her 17 years of dedicated service as Honorary Secretary. Following Jo's words of appreciation, guests joined in a warm round of applause as Rosie received her certificate.

Rosie first joined King's in December 1973 and will be remembered by generations of pupils, parents and Old Eleans from her years working in Main Reception. Although she retired from that role in 2022, it was not long before she returned to the School, where she continues to work in the Health and Wellbeing Centre.

Her contribution was also recognised in 2024, when she received a Bishop's Commendation for Outstanding Service.

Rosie once said: "If I was a stick of rock and you cut me in half, I think that it would say King's Ely."

It is hard to imagine a more fitting description of someone whose dedication to the School and its alumni has been so enduring.

Until Next Year!

The Annual Dinner remains a special fixture in the Old Eleans calendar, bringing together generations of former pupils through their shared connection to King's.

Our thanks go to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such an enjoyable occasion.

Save the date: The 112th Old Eleans Annual Dinner will take place on Saturday 16 October 2027. We look forward to welcoming you back!