Circle events (Past and Future)

February 2010 - NATS

Visit to the National Air Traffic Control Centre at Swanwick, followed by dinner. Not to be missed after the success of our visit in 2008.

Coming up ... "Strictly Come Dancing Night!

At home with Sir Patrick Moore

Thursday 19th November 2009 saw six Circle members pay a private visit to astromomer Patrick Moore's house in Selsey, West Sussex. After joining Patrick for a glass of wine, they took advantage of the clear night conditions to visit the observatory in his garden, before returning to Sir Patrick's study to chat informally with him about his many achievements in a long and interesting life.

This was a unique experience to be the guests such a great but modest man!

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An evening with Fiona Hoban - "Organising State Occasions"

On Friday 20th March, Rainbow Patron Fiona Hoban (wife of Fareham MP, Mark) was an after-dinner speaker at Quob Park near Wickham. Fiona

is chief assistant ceremonial officer at the Guildhall in London and, for the past 10 years, has been responsible for organising events such as the Lord Mayor's Banquet and other major functions such as State Visits. She gave a fascinating insight into her role, describing her responsibilities in some detail and providing "behind-the-scenes" anecdotes.

Chichester Festival Theatre Christmas Concert - 6th December 2008

Following an early dinner in the CFT Brasserie, a few Circle members enjoyed the 2008 Christmas Concert in the Theatre.

Entertainment was provided by the The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines , Portsmouth, the Chichester Cathedral Choir and the choir of Bishop Luffa School.

The programme included old favourites alongside some new pieces.

The programme was co-hoster by Philip Franks (perhaps best known for his role as Sergeant Croddock in "Heartbeat" and actress Isla Blair.

Visit to NATS - 6 June 2008

Not many people get the chance to visit the new Air Traffic Control Centre at Swanwick, but this evening was an exception for the Rainbow Circle. About 25 members and guests were shown the workings of NATS and the demonstration included hands-on involvement on the training simulators.

The visit was followed by a dinner in the local Quindel Country club at Whiteley.

Messiah at Portsmouth Cathedral - 7th December 2007

On 7th December members enjoyed Handels's "Messiah" in Portsmouth Cathedral. The evening also included a Christmas supper before the performance.