The Cripplegate Ward Club

A Lecture on Churchill's ' Special Operations Executive' with a Drinks and Canapé Reception in The Carlton Club

21st February 2017

Early one evening towards the end of February, 70 Members and their guests gathered at the prestigious Carlton Club in the exclusive St. James's area. Following a glass or two of Prosecco in the historic area of the Club known as Cads Corner we then moved into the appropriately named Churchill Room . Here a personal friend of the Master, Gillian Halcrow, gave an illustrated talk on the World War 2 Special Operations Executive (SOE); also known as Churchill's Secret Army.

Gillian spoke of the training, preparation and operational activity these brave agents underwent. Her talk (during which she revealed a very personal connection with one particular agent) was entertaining, at times amusing and very moving.

Gillian gives freely of her time and donates the proceeds from her talks to the Lt Dougie Dalzell MC Memorial Trust (DDMT) which supports injured soldiers who have given so much for their country. On behalf of Members & guests present, the Master presented Gillian with a generous donation to the DDMT - raised from the sale of tickets for this event.

A wine & canapés reception celebrating the end of a successful 2016/17 year for the Club brought the evening to a close.

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Supporting Information prior to the event

The Carlton Club, founded in 1832, is situated in the exclusive St. James's area. Nearest underground is Green Park.

Arrive at 6pm for a wine reception in an historic part of the Club called 'Cads Corner'. Providing the Club is not too busy, members may also be offered a tour of the building during this reception.

At 6.45pm we will all take our seats in the appropriately named 'Churchill Room' for a talk on the Special Operations Executive by Gillian Halcrow (a friend of the Master). The SOE was also known as Churchill's Secret Army which was ordered to "Set Europe Ablaze". Gillian will give a fascinating account of the training, preparation and operational activity these brave agents underwent. She will capture your interest and move you to both laughter and tears.

It is expected that Gillian's talk will last about 50 minutes after which there will be time for a few questions, before we enjoy a wine and light canapé reception and celebrate the last event of the 2016/17 Master's year .

It is likely that the evening will end at about 9pm.