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NorthernerThe Magazine of the Royal Northern & University Club • Aberdeen Issue One Summer 2016

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THE CLUB AS A VENUE, COMPETITION, FOR YOUR DIARY, RECIPROCAL CLUBS, SOCIETIES & EVENTS THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Chairman’s Foreword INSIDE THIS Chairman Mel Keenan

ISSUE FOUNDED1854 2 015 1854 TheThe R oyalRoyal N Noortrthehernrn Andand UUniveniversritysit Cy lubClub The “Northerner” is Reborn after consultation with all who wish to be asked to make changes. Having been Cover Story Aberdeen Aberdeen Page 2 contribute, to a new even higher level of at the heart of things for the past year and Published by The Royal Northern & University Club rnuc.org.uk excellence. a half I also feel we should look at how Chairman’s Message THE ROYAL NORTHERNER In the past year around £300,000 the Club is governed. Perhaps we need Page 3 The Official Journal of The Royal Northern & University Club, 9 Albyn Place, Aberdeen AB10 IYE has been invested in improving the to think in terms of a Board of Directors, Membership Matters EDITORIAL COMMITTEE fabric and facilities of the Club for the smaller in number than the Committees Page 4 Mike Robson (Editor) • Roddy Phillips (Creative Director) ultimate enjoyment of Members. We of old and appointed to recognise the Members Remembered Sharon Findlater (Club Secretary) • Mel Keenan (Chairman) now have a fully equipped banqueting spread of various skill sets that are Page 5 DESIGN and PRODUCTION kitchen, the engine room of the ship. required to run an efficient forward The Agency theagency-aberdeen.com Kitchen in Profile With the installation of barriers we looking Club. I am very fortunate to Page 6 PUBLISHER have reclaimed our car park from have been able to appoint Lead Directors The Royal Northern & University Club, 2016 indiscriminate parkers and squatters. who have the skills required at this House Matters THE CLUB COMMITTEE Page 7 ow endowed with the Royal title We have a new security, door entry and particular juncture in the life of the Club J Melvin Keenan (Chairman) • Robert Smith (Vice Chairman and Lead Director - House and Hospitality) N telephone system which will facilitate but this might not always be the foremost David Kenwright • Clifford Eastmond as befits the status of our great Club and The Club as a Venue more liberal entry at the weekends for consideration under the current system. Pages 8 & 9 William Mitchell (Lead Director - Major Building Project) the style granted by our Royal Charter John Fleming (Lead Director - Younger Members) • Lindsay Monro (Lead Director - Membership) • Ian Fraser the Royal Northerner is here confident Members. All this has been done without The Board could be recommended Reciprocal Clubs Richard Wakeford • Mike Robson (Lead Director - Marketing) • David Burnside (Ex-Officio) and colourful. It is our intention that incurring debt or asking Members for by a panel yet to be determined and Pages 10 & 11 the Royal Northerner will reflect the debentures and yet we still have reserves then appointed at a general meeting of Front Cover: excellence of our Club. It will look in the form of investments. Members. The tenure of a Chairman Aberdeen, City Lights and Full Moon. forward, record the present, and More remains to be done in the of one year is in my view too short as it By Eric Auld. acknowledge the past including the debt front of house facilities in the form of creates a kind of revolving door. It may The Club were greatly honoured when the we owe to those that went before us in redecoration and replacement of worn be that no sooner has the new Chairman family of the much respected local artist, the building and improving the glittering out furniture in the bar and dining room acquired a fuller understanding of the late Eric Auld, FRSA, agreed to the use of this, asset we all own a part of today. in particular. affairs of the Club than it is time to one of his most popular paintings, to allow us During the time I have served as move to the back benches. to create a very striking inaugural front cover. Vice Chairman and more recently as Also, in my experience elsewhere it can The photograph shows his widow Pat and daughters Deidre and Fiona gifting a limited Chairman it has occurred to me that we be difficult and takes time to get “under edition print of the painting to Club Chairman Mel Keenan and Club Secretary Sharon do not always recognise or make enough the skin” of an organisation when all of Findlater. of the precious jewel that is The Royal the Directors or Committee are non- New Club Edinburgh Although Eric was not a Northern and University Club. Our executive. This can lead to difficult issues Club Member, he was a beautiful premises, the superb position not being addressed. Of course this has Secretary’s Report member of the FRS (Fellows Page 12 in the heart of Aberdeen’s West End, our to be balanced against the time demands of the Right Sort), who enjoy on the voluntary unpaid Chairman and Supporting Charlie House the Club on a regular Club Dining Room few could commit to longer periods Page 13 Thursday evening after Better use of space is also something of office. At the risk of sounding like Club Societies their exertions in the gym, to be looked at. Yet in some ways Nigel Farage I hasten to say that I am Pages 14 & 15 and he had a great affection these are less difficult things to do, yes not looking to overstay my welcome The Old Boy Network for the Club and those who they are costly but other things can be and I look forward to passing the baton Page 16 work within it. more difficult. I speak of the successful to a competent successor when my time Dear Rosemary Left to Right: restructuring of the staff as has been is up. I only offer these sentiments for Page 17 Photograph courtesy of Professor Gavin T. McEwen Mel, Fiona, Deidre, Pat and Sharon done in the kitchen with our new head thought and discussion. Our superb location chef and his team. The front of house Finally I would wish to thank the Art in the Club Editors Note: Club Committee, particularly the Lead Page 19 I do hope you like this first edition of ‘The Royal Northerner’. My many thanks to all the contributors long illustrious history and a century team has also been strengthened and and advertisers who have made this publication possible. It has been a pleasure working on it with all the and a half of the finest traditions. The staff rotas changed. The Club has more Directors, our Secretary and the Staff Younger Members editorial team, with such a busy Club there was a great deal of ground to cover and any errors or omissions Royal Northerner will be instrumental weekend day time events and is generally team for all the advice and support Page 21 are mine alone. If there are any topics or subjects you would like to see in the next issue, planned for in assisting us to realise anew the value more open and welcoming at the they give me. Christmas 2016, do please drop me a line at [email protected] Dates for your Diary of what we have. It will also compliment weekend. This has also required changes Page 22 Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, neither The Royal Northern & University Club nor the authors can accept liability for errors and omissions. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Club. All information contained in advertisements within this publication the efforts of the Club Committee and from the previous way of thinking. is correct at the time of going to press. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. the Lead Directors to chart a course, However it is not only staff who might Page 2 Page 3 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Membership Matters Members Remembered Lead Director, Membership, Lindsay Monro Bryan Ross Kennedy Obituary • Members Remembered the information passport and guidance candidates, your Committee approved Obituary: Bryan Ross Kennedy, Anaesthetist and Territorial Army Major which will inform and enable them to the commencement in 2016 of a experience all the aspects of the Club sustained initiative to promote increased Kennedy was still only 30 when, along to the Efficiency Decoration for long even if it is not their first encounter. We, attendances and greater use of the Club’s Born: 19 June, 1935, in Fraserburgh. with others, he published a paper on service ten years later. as you do, value their interest in joining facilities from within our Membership. Died: 22 January, 2016, in Banchory intravenous regional anaesthesia and was His service had taken him to camps at the Club, reinforcing what we know as The excellent midweek special lunches aged 80. incredibly proud when, decades later, locations at home and abroad, mostly in the unique and special place it is, and is one such event where the hospitality the British Medical Journal what was then West Germany, as well as ensuring they understand their part in value, quality of Guest Speaker and (BMJ) quoted it as one of the on extra attachments with the regular maintaining traditions for the association variety of important local topics most widely used papers in army when he saw active service in of Gentlemen for Social and Intellectual discussed has seen attendances increase. anaesthesia. Belize in Central America. purposes. These events give you the opportunity He returned to Aberdeen in And a love of exotic travel was not stifled We also continue to emphasise to you to invite potential Members, friends or 1968 to become a consultant in retirement by his illnesses, even when the need for new younger Members business colleagues who are given an anaesthetist and in the ensuing he developed three different cancers and who can bring additional vibrancy and intimate experience and for them to years published numerous endured radio and chemotherapy plus diversity to the Club and the Societies sample the Club atmosphere and lunch in scientific papers in the BMJ, the hormone treatment. within and ask all Members to again a busy dining room ambience. British Journal of Anaesthesia He defied his doctor’s advice to stay at consider nominating a younger family We also continue our dialogue with and Anaesthesia. As a result of home and he and his third wife, Margot, member or relative this year. Aberdeen University and RGU and have one of his pieces of published enjoyed a variety of long-haul trips. research, which appeared in the Journal They both loved train journeys and he greatest asset of the Royal The Club also continue to receive been holding a series of Club Tours which Bryan Kennedy was an ebullient and T of the American Medical Association, travelled on the luxurious Blue Train Northern and University Club is personal enquiries for Membership have resulted in several new Members respected consultant anaesthetist who he was invited to California, in 1976, to in South Africa, the Desert Express our Members. Our outstanding 620 originating from the excellent Business from both these Universities joining combined his medical career with long- be an expert witness in a long-running across Namibia and on the Darjeeling individual Members are the best Speakers Lunches and Functions where during February and March maintaining term service in the Territorial Army. medico-legal dispute. “Toy Train”, a spectacular expedition insurance that any potential candidates guests have attended. Often enquiries our good connections with University Born and brought up in the North-east By the age of 60, after carving such a to India’s highest railway station in the continue to meet the standards for being from New Member Candidates are from life. fishing town of Fraserburgh, he was the successful career, he was happy to reduce Himalayas. granted Membership of the Club. letters, e-mails and via our Website The Membership Team appreciates son of the rector of the town’s academy his hours to part-time duties but just Apart from one night camping near The best introduction possible for expressing compliments to the Club on your continued support, welcomes your where he was educated and, having excelled in the bursary competition for two years later he became increasingly Ayers Rock, their accommodation was new candidates to our wonderful Club Hospitality, Food and Ambience of the introductions, and on your behalf will entrants to Aberdeen University, he unwell. After prolonged investigations always in the best hotel or Gentlemen’s is undoubtedly from our own Members events they have attended. fully uphold and maintain all important went on to achieve distinction in materia he was eventually diagnosed with Club and one of his favourite journeys themselves. The Committee always As part of our role, your Committee standards to ensure the future success of medica and pharmacology, something Addison’s disease, a rare and chronic was returning from Australia first class appreciates any person who comes appreciates the importance of scrutiny the Club. that may have influenced his ultimate disorder of the adrenal glands, and never with Emirates Airline, enjoying an through this route and continues to and underpin all applications by looking choice of specialty. worked again. infinite supply of Dom Perignon and encourage all of us to introduce and closely at each individual Candidate’s ‘We extend a warm Club After graduating, he went on to resident In tandem with his professional life he Johnnie Walker Blue Label whisky. nominate more in 2016 to avoid any background to firstly ensure and then welcome to the following new posts in general surgery and medicine had been a dedicated volunteer member An appreciation of the finer things in attrition. We thank you for bringing to confirm they meet our existing Members who have joined at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary before of the Royal Army Medical Corps – an life extended to fast cars, good wine these new Members to the Club and as Club Members Criteria and suitability, embarking on a career in anaesthesia, interest in all things military may well and food. Once an accomplished shot you are aware if one Member in three did thereby continuing the original processes us this year. initially in Aberdeen before heading to have stemmed from his childhood in and a golfer who played off a single- so this year sustainability is assured. of Membership which has been in place Further Membership Wales. Fraserburgh when, during the Second figure handicap, he latterly confined his The Membership Team have the since 1854. updates will appear in the In Cardiff, he progressed from regis- World War, he could vividly remember activities to more sedentary pursuits and responsibility to ensure that each and Following on from the three letters Christmas edition of trar to senior registrar and lecturer in the German aircraft flying so low over became an excellent chef. every individual introduction from you, in the latter part of 2015 sent ‘The Royal Northerner’.’ anaesthesia, under the renowned Profes- the area that he could see the faces of the Resilient, courageous and uncomplain- are personally welcomed and given directly to our Members regarding new sor William Wolff Mushin, first director pilots. ing, when disability proved too challeng- of the department of anaesthetics at the He spent roughly 25 years with the ing he and Margot moved from their Recent new Members Welsh National School of Medicine and Territorials, as a member of a Mobile lovingly-restored home at Midmar in whose work put the department on the David J N Anderson • Scott Black • A Graham MacEwen • Andrew C S Wilson • Alastair I Donald • George Grangeon-Amaral Field Surgical Team, and was made a rural Aberdeenshire to Inchmarlo near world map. major in 1970, being awarded the clasp Banchory where he died. David A Burns • Scott M Bradley • John W King • Alaister M McIntosh • Andrew D T Robinson • David G Lawrence Gordon P Riddler • Arthur J Alsop • Robert K Forrest • Richard Carrington • David S M Campbell • John Broom David Cockburn • Vince Fitzpatrick • David A Price • Ian H Massie • Francis G Lawson • Kenneth Fisher • Gregor Keenan It is with great sadness that we have to report the deaths of the following Members and friends who are missed by us all: Peter B Donald • Nicholas Ridley • Robert F W Paterson • Brian G Smith • David Y Anstee • Allan W Henderson • David Green 3rd June 2015 Rodney Jones • August 2015 Rodney H Edmondson • 29th September 2015 George N Mager Bjorn H Karlstad • Jim Walton • George Coghill • Colin Morgan • Christopher M Carry 12th November 2015 Graeme R Pyle • 29th December 2015 Alastair J W Wallace • 9th February 2016 Andrew M Philip 22nd January 2016 Dr Bryan R Kennedy • April 2016 Dr Iain Fraser Page 4 Page 5 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Kitchen in Profile House Matters Lead Director, House, Robert A J Smith LL.B., N.P. furniture in the Smoke Room (for In the Heart of the Club with Hayden and Wallace As a new Member of the Committee, anyone not au fait with the Club, so I am honoured to have the remit of “House called historically, but now a comfortable and Hospitality,” and hope that, with my They say that the kitchen is the heart lounge area), but always, as we change, of the home and the Club kitchen is no fellow Committee Members, we can evolution, not revolution, ensuring that exception to this belief; it is the heart of make the difference with enhancements, any changes maintain and enhance the the Club. changes, and development, all centred on quality, and the relaxing and convivial the gentlemanly good grace, ambience, ambience. Both these changes will, I We have a superb kitchen team with many and conviviality of our Club. hope, give us the best pre and post dining years of experience behind them. They Having completely redeveloped the areas for ourselves, and our guests, and are enthusiastic, driven and committed kitchen during 2015, and having an should be the equal of the best available to providing our Members, their guests excellent team of chefs going forward, in the city. and reciprocal Members with the best there is a clear opportunity to improve We have a relatively new young of food. To that end I would like to and develop the Club’s hospitality and management team of three, under the introduce you to our Head Chef, Hayden dining; there is no reason why the Club guidance of the Club Secretary, whom Bennett and Chef, Wallace Hudson. should not be at the top on the social I am excited about working with to dining out map in Aberdeen. improve and enhance our hospitality In the coming months therefore the offering in the months to come. emphasis will be on developing and I would encourage fellow Members to reason why our Club should not continue, changing the bar, to enable us to have feel free to get in touch, or bend my ear as we change gradually, to be a must visit a much wider range of drinks available, when in the Club, despite the downturn for all Members, and an invitation to a ‘The lull before the storm’ for Hayden and Wallace and to display them better, and also the in the city’s fortunes of late, there is no guest to be seen as a treat! Wallace began his career at an early age Here’s one of Wallace’s in his Mum’s kitchen at Invergordon favourite recipes: where he developed his passion for all Beetroot Cured Salmon things food. After leaving school he 500g Salmon studied at Aberdeen College where he 80g Salt gained his 7061/2 and his first position 80g Sugar was as Commis Chef at Churchills. After Zest of 2 Lemons two years he moved to the Caledonian Zest of 2 Oranges Hotel as Chef de Parti. Wallace went 2 Large Beetroot raw, peeled and grated on to work as Sous Chef at the Amatola 100g Fresh Horseradish grated Head Chef Hayden Bennett Hotel for three years and Sous Chef at the Norwood Hall Hotel for seven years Mix salt, sugar, zests, beetroot Hayden was born in Devon and attended before joining the Club team as Chef in and horseradish together. Torquay Boys Grammar School. From an 2002. Line a tray with cling film and place early age he loved being in the kitchen. a small amount of the cure mixture He moved to Aberdeen to study Forest into the tray. Management at Aberdeen University Place the piece of salmon on top where he gained his BSc. Hayden decided of the cure mixture skin side down. that forestry wasn’t really what he wanted Place rest of cure on top of the salmon to do and went on to gain an SVQN and wrap with cling film. Level 3 Food Preparation and Cooking, Leave for 48 hours but during the but his real schooling came from the 48 hours turn salmon once. establishments he has worked in over Once cured for the 48 hours the past thirty years. Among his various wash the salmon under cold water. posts include Head Chef, Restaurant Thinly slice and serve with watercress, Paula McEwan, Senior Sous Chef, Old radish and apple salad drizzled with Meldrum House Hotel and Senior Sous a mustard dressing. Chef, The Marcliffe at Pitfodels. Enjoy! We were delighted when Hayden joined the Club as Head Chef in July 2015. Fine Dining at it’s best Page 6 Page 7 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 The Club as a Venue The Club as a Venue A Venue of Choice.... and creativity to every dish. Members and a welcoming atmosphere. The Royal Northern & University Club are welcome to join the Club Table; We appreciate the individuality of prides itself on being a popular venue for alternatively, tables can be reserved in each business and thus each business’ all manner of events, from Seminars, advance by contacting the Club Office. requirements. It is therefore greatly Conferences and Business Meetings to Breakfast is served Monday to Friday important for us to tailor corporate Weddings, Christenings and private 7.30am - 9.30am, Saturday and Sunday, events to meet client requirements. parties. The versatility of our beautifully 8am - 9.30am, Lunch, Monday to Friday In the case of each event, you will be appointed rooms, the private car parking 12 noon - 2pm and dinner Monday to guaranteed service of the highest quality facilities and our gorgeous patio and Saturday 6.30pm, last orders at 9.30pm. and an experienced team who are always garden, together with the experience of our team, will always ensure truly memorable occasions for our guests. From your first point of contact, our experienced team will take you all the way through your event ensuring attention to detail at every stage and giving you peace of mind. Our superb Garden Room Weddings delighted to hear from you. And don’t We have a range of function rooms Many of the weddings have had their reputation for weddings is by word forget, we have ten well-appointed available for private events, meetings as reception drinks on the Patio or in the of mouth. Members may well picture bedrooms to accommodate your bridal well as larger events such as weddings Garden Room. We had one lovely couple how beautiful a setting this would be, party. and corporate events for up to 100 say their “I do’s” on the Club Patio with a wonderful combination of tradition guests. Private dining for your group their 60 guests comfortably seated and modern facilities. Contact the Club basking in the Aberdeen sunshine. Office if you would like further details For more information on your venue can be arranged in one of our beautiful of choice please contact our Team rooms. Our team will be delighted to We are delighted that we have also gained on how the Club can help to plan your via email [email protected] or discuss your requirements and assist you. new Members from our weddings! bespoke day. Recommend us to your In addition there are 10 well-appointed The wonder of it all is that the Club’s family and friends, our team would be telephone 01224 583 292. Bedrooms, providing comfort, peace and calm, a pleasant contrast to the hustle and bustle of Union Street only a The Reynolds Room few minutes’ walk away. The Royal Northern & University Club on hand to assist in any way possible. We The Club offers a genuine level of hos- also hosts a number of Member events pride ourselves on offering competitive pitality whilst fully embracing modern throughout the calendar year, including prices. As well as large-scale functions technology, including complimentary speaker’s lunches, gourmet evenings, and meetings, we recognise the Wi-fi access. themed evenings and musical evenings to increasing demand for small, informal which Members are encouraged to bring meeting spaces and can therefore offer Fine Dining at its Best guests. options to cater for any sized group. The Royal Northern & University Club If you wish to hold your own function Over the last few years the Royal offers fine dining at its best and enjoys Scottish golfer Paul Lawrie launches the new look for an unrivalled reputation for providing at the Club, whether it be for a special Northern & University Club has built the highest quality food and drink at Birthday, Anniversary, Graduation or an excellent reputation for exclusive The Club Library affordable prices. Whether dining with Christmas Party please contact the Club pre-wedding dinners and wedding business associates, friends and family Office where our team will be delighted receptions. or fellow Members, the Dining Room to assist you. We have been fortunate in hosting some ‘Attention to detail provides the ideal setting typical of what The Royal Northern & University fantastic weddings at the Club from guest is everything’ Deeside Mineral Water is delighted to supply one would expect to find in an exclusive Club provides the ideal environment lists of 20 people up to 120 people. The The Royal Northern University Club Private Members Club. You will enjoy for corporate meetings and functions. Club offers an ambience that cannot be high quality cuisine by Head Chef, Traditional and inspiring surroundings beaten and wedding guests get exclusive Hayden, who brings vast experience are complimented by modern facilities use of the Club for the day. Page 8 Page 9 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Reciprocal Clubs Reciprocal Clubs

KILDARE STREET AND UNIVERSITY CLUB One of the marvellous things about Club membership is the access it gives Members to over 130 affiliated or The Kildare Street and University Club is a happy amalgamation of two Clubs founded in reciprocal clubs around the world. These are all similar in nature to our own club, and all offer the same ‘home 1782 and 1849 respectively. Today the Club has over 1300 Members and is conveniently from home’ philosophy as RNUC. Here is a small selection of 4 gems from around the British Isles we think you’ll situated in the heart of Dublin city’s historic centre. Many reciprocal Members visiting like to visit and who would all be delighted to welcome you as a Reciprocal visitor. Dublin for the day are welcome to pop in and use our facilities for business or just to escape the world for a few hours, and if you are staying longer our Front Desk is a font of knowledge at the Club We have 15 bedrooms, three Private Dining Rooms along with a main Dining Room and two bars which are open to our Members and visitors. While we have limited parking facilities at the Club, we do have an arrangement nearby to accommodate all parking needs, and our Front Desk are very happy to assist with this or any other needs you have during your stay. We look forward to giving you a warm Irish welcome! Kildare Street and University Club, 17 St Stephens Green, Dublin Kildare Street and University Club Tel: 00 353 1676 2975 e: [email protected] w: ksuc.ie

Northern Counties Club NORTHERN COUNTIES CLUB Founded in 1829, and with a long and distinguished history, conversation and company of other Members, while individual the Northern Counties Club has moved firmly into the 21st tables are of course also available. Century while retaining all the elegance and style of a bygone We have seven en-suite bedrooms, three banqueting age. It has been described as a social club offering its Members and conference rooms for private functions and can also and guests a place of quiet sanctuary and relief from the hustle accommodate weddings and private dining parties in an and bustle of a very busy city. The dining rooms reflect this exclusive setting. philosophy and have a chef providing stylish and contemporary cuisine and a wine cellar to accompany it that is unique in the Northern Counties Club, 11 Hood Street, local area. Newcastle NE1 6LH The Club dining room opens Monday - Friday for lunch and one Tel: 0191 232 2744 of it’s most endearing features is our famous ‘Club table’, which e: [email protected] provides a comfortable ambience for single diners to enjoy the w: northerncountiesclub.co.uk

New Club Main Dining Room NEW CLUB Ulster Reform Club Dining Room The New Club sits right in the middle of Edinburgh on Princes Street and offers lunch in ULSTER REFORM CLUB the Main Dining Room, or a buffet on the 3rd Floor, which overlooks Princes Street, the The Ulster Reform Club has always been an oasis of calm in While the Club has no bedrooms we do have an arrangement Castle and the historic Old Town. Dinner is served only in the Main Dining Room. the midst of the vibrant and busy city of Belfast since 1885 and with two nearby hotels that offer our reciprocal guests There are 22 well-appointed and comfortable bedrooms, which vary from suites, to we are always delighted to welcome our reciprocal Members, preferential rates, and we are open Monday - Friday, 8.30am doubles and twin rooms, and all are en-suite. Wi-fi is available throughout the Club. We particularly those from Aberdeen. - 5pm. also have 2 libraries and a choice of other rooms that are available for large or small private Our splendid Dining Room perfectly complements the stylish functions such as dinners or business meetings. Car parking is also available, which is very and contemporary menu that has some of the best food in town. Ulster Reform Club, 4 Royal Avenue, useful in central Edinburgh. We also have a very gracious Reading Room, a welcoming bar Belfast BT1 IDA We look forward to giving you a warm welcome. (of course!) and a very popular Snooker Room, along with a Tel: 0289 032 3411 New Club, 86 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2BB Tel: 0131 226 4881 Fitness Suite and Business Room. In addition to this, several e: [email protected] e: [email protected] w: newclub.co.uk rooms are available for private functions. w: ulsterreformclub.co.uk Page 10 Page 11 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Secretary’s Report Supporting Charlie House Sharon Findlater kitchen boiler were replaced. The Hayden Bennett was appointed as kitchen, preparation room and store Head Chef in July 2015 and continues The Club has supported many local room walls are now all sealed with to tantalise taste buds with his carefully charities over the years and we are industrial Formica (no more annual crafted menus. now delighted to be associated with the painting over the Easter weekend!) and Magdelena Piatkowska and Annie children’s charity Charlie House. non-slip flooring replaced the old quarry Hinton were appointed as Assistant Based in Aberdeen, Charlie House tiles. The kitchen was reconfigured which Managers in April 2016. Magda joins us engages in activities and projects meant that some internal walls had to from Aramark where she was employed to support children with complex be moved to facilitate separate areas for as a catering supervisor and Annie from disabilities and life-limiting conditions. different food type preparation, cooking Emirates Airline. Currently in Scotland, there are only and storage. The kitchen was then kitted 17 paediatric hospice beds supported out with state of the art equipment, Farewell including a combi oven which has proved The Club said a fond farewell and wished with additional outreach capability. The to be a super addition given the excellent Ronald Esslemont, Catering Manager, nearest hospice for children requiring uptake by our Members and their guests a happy retirement after 33 years of support in the North-East is in Kinross, at Club meal times and events. service. A reception, which was well approximately 100 miles from Aberdeen. During three weeks in July and Our Chairman, J Melvin Keenan, hosted attended by Members, was held for Ron In Scotland, there are over 15,000 August 2015 your Club kitchen a Reception to mark the launch of the to mark the occasion. children and young people with a life- underwent a transformation. The new kitchen in August with over a 120 limiting condition, which equates to kitchen and store areas were completely Ideas Members and guests in attendance. approximately 1,744 children and refurbished. The kitchen had not seen We frequently have brainstorming Harvey playing with a bubble tube in the sensory room at RACH young people an overhaul since 1983 and although Welcome to five new staff sessions in the Club office to come up A graduate of Gray’s School of Art in It’s easy to see why the valuable work in Grampian. the original equipment and kitchen members with new ideas for Club Events. Often of Charlie House spoke directly to Charlie House Aberdeen, Catriona quickly won public space were kept well maintained it was Aidan McAleese joined the Club team new ideas come from our own Members. and critical acclaim when her Degree Catriona. becoming apparent that it was outdated, in April 2015 as Assistant Manager after If you have a suggestion for a Club Event will continue to work with NHS Show sold out within hours. Her work “Charlie House need all the support we not as energy efficient as it could be and having previously worked for the Club or a new Club Group, please don’t is now admired around the world with with the volume of events that the Club part time while studying at university in hesitate to let me know. Grampian, local can offer,” she told us, “I often feature authorities and private collections in Europe, the Far children in my paintings and my work now hosts, space was becoming an issue. Aberdeen. Teresa Smith also joined us East, Australia and America. The downstairs storerooms were opened in April 2015 as Office Administrator. others to discuss is studied by school children around up into one large room to accommodate Amongst Teresa’s previously held posts the need for She continues to win the respect and the world so Charlie House seems such a walk-in fridge-freezer, dry store and a are Management Accountant at Inspire change in services to adequately support acclaim of collectors, critics and leading an ideal fit. I’m also a big fan of the bespoke preparation area. The gas mains (PTL) Ltd and Senior Finance Officer at children with life-limiting conditions in galleries while her stunning paintings RNUC. After holding my father’s pipe, kitchen and store electrics and the Gulf Offshore NS Ltd. the North - East and their families. enjoy a special place amongst the funeral tea in the lovely Garden Room charliehouse.org.uk contemporary art buying public. it has held a special place in my heart.” Proceeds from the Club’s first Catriona Millar with her painting ‘Class’ (Private Collection) catrionamillar.com The Club at its Best Room and heading homewards or to the Chairman’s own cellar was awarded to forthcoming limited edition calendar bar. a learned medical practitioner for the ‘The Art of the Club’ will be donated It was around nightfall on a wet They had participated in discussion of most notable sentiment of the evening to Charlie House along with a superb Tuesday night in March, the West End the subject for the night “Brexit or Wrexit” when he advocated we should vote not painting gifted to the Club by the streets of Aberdeen were empty save for the referendum on United Kingdom for ourselves but for our children and the acclaimed Scottish painter, Catriona some hardy individuals trudging with membership of the European Union. The wellbeing of future generations. Millar. The painting will be sold at a shoulders hunched against the driving raison d’etre of the Club formed in 1854 That, said one distinguished Member silent auction in the Club at the launch rain. Few gave more than a passing glance “ for the association of gentlemen for to the Club Chairman “was the Club at of the Calendar on Tuesday 28th June to the imposing stone villa at 9 Albyn social and intellectual purposes” had its best” 6pm - 7.30pm. Place. There was no clue to the warmth indeed been in evidence that evening. A The Chairman silently nodded his and comfort behind the discreetly drawn comprehensive, reasoned well informed agreement, said his goodnights to The donation by such a leading artist curtains of Aberdeen’s best kept secret. debate held without rancour and with Members and staff and reflecting on will no doubt bring Charlie House Within the confines of the most exclusive due respect for those with opposing that sentiment was conscious that the much needed publicity and support. venue in town Gentlemen Members of views. A touch of wisdom and humour intentions and traditions of our forebears Catriona is renowned for her distinctive the Discussion Group were emerging was added by one fairly Buff character and founders lives on. figurative paintings, many of which from the grandeur of The Reynolds and a bottle of malt whisky from the Chairman Mel Keenan feature children. Scotland on Sunday has hailed Catriona as “One of Scotland’s most collectable artists.” Page 12 Page 13 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016

Golf Section The Film and Theatre Group Club Societies Inter-club matches are a feature of the The group has continued to go from strength with a regular influx of Members and RNUC Golfing Society, and we now guests coming along for the first Here is a selection of the Club’s many Societies. If you would like to join any of these please contact play regularly against the New Club, the time. Indeed recently two brand the Club Secretary or add your name to the various lists that go up within the Club itself. Western Club and the Caledonian Club, new Members chose to use the all of which are keenly contested. group as their first experience of CLUB GROUPS Cherished Cars Snooker The Society also enjoys several social RNUC camaraderie. outings to local golf courses each year As in previous years we have met Angling and Fly Fishing We welcome all cars which are cherished The Club annual snooker competitions and this year renews its association with monthly on a Wednesday evening Reading Group • Bridge by their owners regardless of make, age (held during the winter months each Balmoral Castle Golf Club. Our Golfing with the programme, which is Cherished Car • Chess • Croquet or value. We meet for 2 or 3 outings year) are now concluded. Society with a current membership of a mixture of theatre visits and Curling • Discussion each year which consist of gathering In the singles there were many close Film & Theatre • Gardening Society over morning coffee, followed by a tour near 50 Members is a vibrant, enjoyable film nights in the Club, running games / black ball deciders before and popular group in our Club. from September through to June. Golfing Society • Hill Walking of varying length, and finishing with a the two leagues were won by Bernard 3 x Investment Clubs (Third Time friendly lunch at an agreeable location. The evening begins when we Vincent and Iain Smith. In the play off gather for a pre-prandial drink Lucky, Investment Club, Reynolds Our next run is planned for Sunday 8th Iain beat Bernard to become the Club Investment Club) May 2016. followed by supper at about 18.00 with the exact time varying slightly depending on champion which was a repeat of last the programme. Over supper there is always a discussion about the possible choices Mahjong • Photography years result. Sailing and Power Boat for future evenings. Scottish Country Dancing In the doubles there was a unique result The season will conclude in the now traditional fashion with a visit to the Pitlochry Snooker • Wine Society with a triple tie involving the following Festival Theatre and a two night stay at the Pine Trees Hotel. pairs. RNUC Hillwalkers/ Bernard Vincent and Peter Burnett : Strollers section Sandy Scott Wilson and John Craig and Croquet Section The Garden Society Iain Smith and George Sheaman. These Last year was highly successful for the Croquet Group, an integral part of Aberdeen The Garden Society has now completed We continue our monthly walks which pairs played off to establish the 2015- and Crathes Croquet Club (ACCC). It is a privilege to play on the 300 year old lawn its talks on Monday evenings during the fortunately have usually coincided with 2016 champions, and these were Iain at Crathes Castle and at the largely unknown Victorian Park at the Albury Outdoor winter months, which have been well good weather and are now well into the Smith and George Sheaman, after a close Sports Centre, Ferryhill. received and attended. The subjects 2016 season. Thanks to all those Members three frame match against last year’s were very varied and ranged from Plant of our group who agree to lead a walk winners Bernard Vincent and Peter Sadly Alex Burns, a stalwart Diseases to the Detection of Murder and of their choosing. By doing so Members Burnett. Member of the Croquet are able to introduce others to some of Group and RNUC, died last Rape through soil analysis. We will be their favourite walks often with specific year: we miss him and his completing the season on July 29th with points of interest and magnificent views. Scottish Country Dancing dogged determination on a visit to Haddo House, and its Gardens Usually these are in Deeside, Donside or Group the lawn. Members compete followed by lunch at Eat on the Green in Udny. in the winter months closer to Aberdeen Scottish Country Dancing Group: in local club competitions and the coast. The SCD section meets for nine two and National events. The photograph is that of our Members hour sessions on Wednesday evenings Last year, the North, mainly and wives who visited the Raemoir in St. Margaret’s School for Girls ACCC members, beat East Garden Centre last July where we were The Bridge Section from September to November. This and West indicative of our told of the origins, given generous challenge to the dominance of croquet in the Central Belt! hospitality, and shown around by Dr The Bridge Section meets in the Library enthusiastic group of Members and Frank Mair and his son Elliot (far left and every Tuesday at 7pm from October until wives attempt, usually successfully, far right in the picture). April for friendly, sociable bridge. This is the customary dances performed at the and a selection of the best are put on the not high powered bridge but aims for a various Aberdeenshire Reels’ ceilidhs Photography Group Future talks will start on Monday RNUC Notice board. Occasionally we convivial evening with friends. Anyone organised throughout the North East as The club is for anyone interested in October 3rd. have an outing to photograph differing interested is very welcome to join us. well as embracing new dances. photography, regardless of previous skill or equipment. The aim is to improve our environments. Returning from Glen Gelder (and the midges!) photography to your own standards and We meet at the RNUC about once a month the date varying slightly to suit If you have a favourite walk or would not to any set target. simply like to see more of the local We achieve this by having talks and Members. Spouses or partners are also countryside with a friendly group of like demonstrations of useful photographic welcome. minded people you will be most welcome skills, discussions amongst ourselves There is also a social element to the to join us. Either contact us through the about hints and tips we have learned, and club and a number of Members meet Club Secretary or if you see a walk you commenting on each others photographs. for supper before the meetings and wish to join simply add your name and At each meeting we have a topic for our outings have always included somewhere contact details to the list in the Club. photos and we compare and judge them interesting to eat. Page 14 Page 15 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016

University lecturer; Fellow of Girton College; member of this, D: She is a Member of the Oxford and Cambridge Club in Pall that and the other learned societies- Mall. The Old Boy Network D: OK, OK, I suppose she is the bright one of the family. But I A: Ah, I see where you’re coming from. The Oxford and Buff Hardie, MBE like to think there’s not a lot in it. There’s one distinction I have Cambridge Club, which carries reciprocal Membership with recently saying “Elderly woman mugged in city centre.” And that she’ll never have. this Club. when you read on the so-called elderly woman was described as A: What’s that? D: You see. I wonder if that means she can join any of the active Mrs Mary Paterson (61). I mean, 61? Do you call that “elderly”? D: She’ll never be a Member of this Club. groups in this Club? I mean, she’s not into snooker, but- The P&J does. What does that make me? I’m 64, I’m older A: Well, certainly as long as the moratorium on constitutional A: Well, I’m a member of the Discussion Group. I’m sure she than the unfortunate Mrs Paterson. So that makes me at least change lasts. would be welcome to attend meetings of that group. “elderly” and possibly older. I mean is “elderly” just a kind way of D: Mind you - D: No way, Andrew. Intellectually she’d be totally out of her saying “old”? Or are “old” and “elderly” different? If so, at what A: Yes? depth with you guys. age do you move from one to the other? And which comes first? Is “old” older than “elderly” or is “elderly” older than “old”? Just to clarify, have Mrs Paterson and I both already finished being “old” and are now “elderly”, or are we currently just “elderly” Dear Rosemary...... your problems solved...... and have yet to experience being “old”? And whichever one We are delighted to welcome our resident Club ‘agony aunt’, Rosemary Whyte, fragrant doyenne of the City and Shire social scene and arbiter of all matters relating to Club etiquette. of “elderly” or “old” comes second, what comes next? “Aged”? A. Members and their guests are required to be appropriately dressed “Ancient”? and at what age? These are all important questions. I Q. On entering the Club recently, I spotted a young gentleman whilst on Club premises. In the case of gentlemen this must include a The scene is the Smoke Room of the Royal Northern and think it’s scandalous that the allocation of the correct descriptive talking on his mobile phone - can you enlighten me as to the traditional jacket, but the wearing of a tie is optional. This rule may University Club. Two Members, Donald and Andrew, are adjectives to Aberdeen’s senior citizens should be in the hands correct form regarding what I believe is referred to as ‘the use be relaxed in the Billiards Room, whilst attending a private function in seated enjoying their morning coffee and a free read of the of and at the whim of the editor of the P&J. of electronic communications’ within Club premises? the Reynolds’ Room, or the Library, or at the discretion of a Committee morning papers. Their ties identify them as Old Boys of D: So that’s what’s put you off the P&J? Name and address withheld. Member or the Duty Manager. Jackets may be removed between May and Robert Gordon’s College and the Aberdeen Grammar School. A: Yes. It really gets my goat, that kind of thing. I’ve written a A. Mobile phones or any other hand held communication devices should September when the temperature makes this sensible. A: Are you nearly finished with the P&J? letter to the editor about it. only be used in the area adjacent to the coat stand and cloakroom, or Casual presentable clothing may be worn on week-days up until D: Very nearly. Just four or five more deaths to read. D: You’ve written a letter to the editor of the P&J? Little did in the bedrooms. 11.30am, on Saturdays until 6.30pm and all day Sunday. A: For goodness sake Donald, I’ve read the whole of the Times I think I was having my coffee with the Pierre Fouin of Albyn Handheld and tablet devices (including mobile phones, iPhones, Kindles This does not include the wearing of denim jeans, trainers, shorts or and the whole of the Telegraph in the time it’s taken you to Place. So has your letter been published? and Tablets) can be used anywhere in the Club apart from the main T-shirts, and definitely not mankinis, all of which are verboten! struggle through the P&J. I hope you’re going to skip the A: Not yet. But I only wrote it three weeks ago. Time enough dining room. The devices however must be on silent mode with all sounds Q. I have recently joined the Club, and thoroughly enjoy the acknowledgements. for it. Fortunately I kept a copy of it. I have it here. It runs to muted. delights of the dining-room, the food is of an exceptionally high Laptop computers may be used in the Library, the Business Port, or in D: Patience, Andrew. I don’t know about the Times and the three pages, and it carefully spells out the difference between standard and the service is excellent. I live in the country and Bedrooms. The sound must be muted if other guests are in the area. Telegraph, but there’s a lot of reading in the P&J. it is not always possible to know when I shall be in town which “old” and “elderly”. Would you like me to read it to you? Members are also requested to be discreet in the use of all devices as in A: A lot of reading in the P&J? Pull the other one. D: Well - makes booking a lunchtime table difficult, can you suggest certain circumstances it may be inappropriate to use them. anything? D: There is. Especially today - especially on a Monday, when A: Or I’ll wait till some more people come in for their coffee Q. I was mildly surprised on awakening from a post-prandial Name and address withheld. you’ve got Alex Salmond’s column to get through. Mind you, and I’ll read it to all of you. Because it’s of interest to just about slumber in the Smoke Room to find two chaps discussing some A. The Club has a large oval table, ‘The Members Table’ situated in no disrespect to Alex, but I have to admit I like the P&J better every Member of the Club. forthcoming business deal that was apparently too good to miss the middle of the dining room, at which only Club Members can sit. on a Thursday. That’s the day you get the Flying Pigs. D: No, no, Andrew. Read it to me now, while we’re on our out on, and they had all manner of notes and business papers It is very popular with Members dining on their own and is a very old A: What you’re saying, Donald, is that you prefer the Flying own. I’m prepared to take one for the team. I’ll leave the last covering their table. Club tradition indeed. Many Clubs have similar arrangements. At The Pigs to the Crashing Bore. few deaths till later. What exactly is the form regarding this sort of thing in the Garrick Club in London, Members without guests are expected to sit at D: Oh, come on, Andrew, fair play. Alex writes very well for A: That’s good of you. Club? I should confess that I made a quick call to my stockbroker ‘The Long Table’, and at The Beefsteak Club and Pratts Club there is a politician. I reckon if he hadn’t scuttered about being First D: But before you read me the letter, have a look at this bit in afterwards and can happily vouch for the veracity of their only one dining table, so Members have no choice. Minister he could really have made it as a journalist. I mean, the P&J. It’s about my sister Winifred. She’s about to retire, and information, you may occasionally see my Bentley parked outside I would highly recommend that you join the Members table at the Club how many grammatical errors have you ever spotted in his there’s a story here about her possibly spending her retirement No 9 Albyn Place. next time you are in for lunch, you will meet many erudite and interesting column? Not many. Most days. in Aberdeen. MK, Auchterturra. Club Members, and also on certain days of the week a secretive and select A: I have to say I don’t always read it. Whisper it not, Donald, I A: Winifred? The bright one in the family? A. The Club is not a businessman’s office, and neither is it his leisure group known as ‘The Mighty Mouse.’ confess I have gone off the P&J altogether. In fact, if I bought it D: Some people seem to think that. centre. A Club is essentially a home from home, and Business papers Q. I am very partial to the Club tablet which is served with must not be used or displayed either in the Public Rooms or on the Patio. regularly, and didn’t get a free look at it every morning here, I A: The really bright one in the family. She’s a good bit older coffee after meals, is it addictive? A good club is so much more than a mere restaurant or coffee shop, it A. You are correct as to the delights of the Club’s famous hand-made think I would cancel it. than you, isn’t she? How old would Winifred be? 73? should be a refuge from the vulgarity of the outside world, a reassuringly D: S-sh! Andrew, I’ve rarely heard such sacrilege uttered within D: Spot on. tablet, but I must advise caution as to how much of it you consume in one fixed point, the echo of a more civilised way of living, and definitely not sitting, as it is indeed a highly addictive and powerful drug. these hallowed walls. What have you got against the poor old A: So I wonder if the P&J would regard her as old, elderly, aged a surrogate office. The secret recipe for making it was handed down from the ancient Picts or ancient? P&J? OK, it was a bit parochial in its reporting of the Titanic Q. On entering the Club one week-end for my monthly bath, I over many generations and RD Laing, the famous Scottish psychiatrist sinking, but - D: I don’t think anyone would have the nerve to call her any of was greeted by some young fella who was not wearing a ‘collar of the 1960’s, publicly stated that Club tablet was a more powerful A: No, no. It’s the P&J’s house style I don’t like. those. and tie’, It was not the monsoon season, so can you please hallucinogenic than most mainstream drugs, and he himself advocated a D: You’re accusing the P&J of having style? A: No. She’s pretty formidable, Winifred, as I recall. Dux of enlighten me as to the correct dress procedure for the Club? softer version of tablet which I believe is called ‘ fudge’. A: Every paper has its own house style. In the P&J’s case its St Margaret’s; a First in Physics from Aberdeen; scholarship As a former officer of the Blues and Royals, I am a stickler for Another dangerous side-effect of Tablet is that there is a tendency style lies in the way it quotes the age of every person referred to Cambridge; Ph.D. in Cosmology from Cambridge; her correct protocol. amongst regular users to ‘put on the beef’, a misfortune to which many to in a story. You know the kind of thing. There was a headline doctorate supervised by Professor Stephen Hawking; DG, Crathie. unsuspecting Club Members have fallen victim - you have been warned! Page 16 Page 17 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Art in the Club “If you want Gordon Henry Like most Clubs, ours owes a huge debt of gratitude to past Members. Next time you visit, take a look Great around and consider what gives 9 Albyn Place its unique ambience. You will find it rewarding. Take more notice of the pieces of furniture and the paintings and prints we see on a regular basis but take for granted. Ask yourself where the framed plaster busts of Victoria and Albert came from. Who gave us the weighing Advertising, chair in the entrance hall? What are the stories behind the portraits and fireplace in the Reynolds Room? How many artists responsible for our works of art have Aberdeen connections? Queen Victoria As an artist I am probably more aware than most of the visual treasures of our Club. I know the background Hire to the loan arrangement with Aberdeen Art Gallery for the large, impressive paintings in our Dining Room. I know that Hornell was one of the Glasgow Boys and that Brangwyn’s murals for the House of Lords were Gentlemen rejected because they were considered too bright, unlike the still life we have. However, when carrying out a bit of research for the Club calendar, I realised how little I knew with Brains” about others in our collection.

David Ogilvy Of course, like most of you, I was familiar with the more popular names like Reynolds and Russell Flint. Additionally I had the advantage of having studied with Jimmy Furneaux and John Crawford at Gray’s School of Art, but my knowledge of others was minimal. It was fascinating to find out that both Bunting and Hector were Aberdonians who achieved national recognition without leaving the city. Bunting, who painted the two landscapes in the Reynolds Room, attracted the attention of granite merchant and collector Alexander Macdonald. Three of his paintings are in the Macdonald James A H Hector 1868-1928 Old Red Barge collection in the Art Gallery. Hector, who painted The Old Red Barge in the Smoke Room, taught one of Scotland’s foremost artists, James Cowie. Further investigation of the Castlegate print introduced me to a charming poem about the Muckle Friday Fair. Many of the works on our walls, like those attributed to Reynolds, were kindly donated to the Club by Members like Burnett of Leys or, more recently, by J R Macintosh and Past Chairman Bill Wyllie. Perhaps others might like to consider doing something similar in the future? Thomas Bunting 1851-1928 Cattle Grazing by a Loch Unfortunately not a lot is known or recorded about much of what we have. For example, how did we acquire the Musin seascapes? His story is remarkable. His artistic talent was discovered when he drew on the wall of the attic he had been locked into for being a naughty boy. Later his father, himself a deserter from the army, bought him out of doing theagency-aberdeen.com national service so that he could help with the oyster farming and continue his artistic studies. Where the Musin paintings came from is just one of the unanswered questions about our collection. It is obvious that advertising • marketing • design we need to have an inventory done along with some research to find out more about the artists and how we came to have their work. Hugh Irvine of Drum 1783-1829 Castlegate 1812 Page 18 Page 19 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016 Younger Members Lead Director, Younger Members, John Fleming Over the past months the Younger Currently circa 10% of the Club’s Members have enjoyed a series of casual Membership are 45 years young or rendezvous’ within the Club for drinks below, and therefore Younger Members. and food, but also a trip to the races, a This is a promising statistic, representing day out clay pigeon shooting and special a vitality and longevity to a Membership, evenings such as most recently, when a which will no doubt continue to support popular local brewery visited the Club the Club as time progresses. to educate the Members on how to serve It will come as no surprise that the Belgian beers prepared with a special continued success of the Club depends Scottish twist! on its Younger Membership, thus The beer tasting evening was a sell out bringing a sustainability for years to and allowed the Membership to enjoy a come. Endorsing this, Younger Members wide selection of artisan beers, expertly now have representation on the Club’s complimented by a specially prepared Committee, specific support from the tapas menu developed by our Head Club’s Management to prepare and Chef Hayden. Following the educational present Younger Member events, and presentation and Q&A, the Members the odd perk for those times when the ‘retired’ to the bar, where the party really Younger Membership meets! got into to full swing. “The Younger Membership has never been stronger” Next on the calendar, besides our regular nature, welcomes further ideas for get together, is a special Olympian BBQ, events, outings and celebrations from all NATIONAL NETWORK COVERAGE where no doubt our Chefs will surprise of the Younger Membership, so please SPARKS - SUPPORTING Aberdeen 01224 704448 and surpass once again, but we can also step forward and suggest. (Head Office) THE ROYAL NORTHERN Elgin / Inverness 01463 710742 enjoy the odd caipirinha, and perhaps In the meantime, we look forward to BY APPOINTMENT TO Dundee 01382 619150 INDEPENDENT INTEGRATED some other South American cocktails HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN SUPPLIERS Cumbernauld 01236 738000 seeing you regularly at the informal FACILITIES SOLUTIONS OF REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT AND UNIVERSITY CLUB Huddersfield 01484 460329 too, whilst enjoying the summer sun Nottingham 01159 101011 drinks in the evening of the last Thursday Sparks provide a highly competitive and (fingers crossed). Bring on the carnival! of each month. New faces are always professional service to a wide portfolio of Of course the Club, by its very collegial Companies across the UK. With over 50 years SERVICE & MAINTENANCE welcome. of experience the progressive nature of our CONTRACTS Enjoying an informal drink in the Club cocktail bar business allows us to offer a comprehensive WE PROVIDE INSTALLATION, package that can match any client expectation. MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING IN THE FOLLOWING: Our multi-disciplined teams service all levels of AIR CONDITIONING commercial and industrial client requirements, REFRIGERATION from small installation work at the local corner CATERING shop, to a comprehensive integrated service ELECTRICAL package for major building developers, building PLUMBING owners, facilities managers, local authorities, HEATING The Club’s youngest Member, BUILDING MAINTENANCE

manufacturers, schools, pubs, restaurants and RENTAL EQUIPMENT David Burns, 23. hotels. David is getting married on 30th July Sparks are fully accredited with all From our seven dedicated national service major industry regulators ensuring 2016 at Fasque House, Fettercairn, to and installation hubs in Aberdeen, Dundee, the delivery of all our services to the highest standard. We Katie, the eldest daughter of Club Vice- Elgin, Inverness, Glasgow, Huddersfield and undertake a wide range of existing Chairman Robert Smith and his wife Nottingham - Sparks deliver high quality installations and offer some of the performance for all sectors of the building longest warranties available in June. Both David and Katie are graduates service industry, at the best possible price. the market with contracts to suit from the University of Aberdeen, David your needs at a price that works for you. in History and Katie in Law. We wish FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTE CALL 01224 70448 them a happy future together, and David OR EMAIL: [email protected] has promised to ‘stand his hand’ to any www.sparksms.co.uk Club Members who happen to be in the Cocktail Bar on his stag night. Page 20 Page 21 THE ROYAL NORTHERNER ISSUE ONE • SUMMER 2016

HIDDEN DEESIDE TOURS Dates for your Diary 2016/17 Exclusive and Bespoke Historical Tours for One to Four People per Tour Friday 10th June Friday 18th November Fashion Show Silver Membership Dinner COMPETITION “A fantastic day out” “We loved it, what history, what scenery!” Sunday 12th June Thursday 24th November “Such a great tour, so much to see” Queen’s 90th Birthday BBQ Speaker’s Lunch - “A fabulous tour” Tuesday 28th June Angus MacCuish Launch of Club Calendar 2017 Saturday 26th November Friday 1st July Whisky Tasting Gordon & MacPhail Speaker’s Supper Friday 2nd December Emeritus Professor Henry Ellington Pre-Christmas Evening Your chance to win a fantastic Canon A Guided Tour of the Universe Tuesday 20th December Pixma 2950 colour wireless printer! Kindly provided to the Club by Saturday 6th August Member and Guest Christmas Lunch Member Lindsay Monro, MD of Younger Members - Wednesday 21st December A1 Digital Solutions , Aberdeen’s Present an Olympian BBQ Member and Guest Christmas Lunch leading supplier of office and business Gift Wednesday 14th September Thursday 22nd December solutions, just answer the following 3 Vouchers questions to enter the prize draw: Speaker’s Lunch - Member and Guest Christmas Lunch available Ferdinand Von-Prondzynski, 1. Where are the 2 Gentlemen sitting Friday 23rd December Principal RGU in the Buff Hardie story? Telephone: 07920 801546 Member and Guest Christmas Lunch hidden-deeside.com Friday 9th September 2. What do you need to do to get great Saturday 31st December advertising? Autumn Fine Dining Evening no. SC000123Charity Hogmanay Party 3. When was the Club founded? Friday 23rd September Speaker’s Supper Friday 27th January 2017 Answers by email to the Club Emeritus Professor Henry Ellington Burns Supper Secretary, Science and Religion - Saturday 4th February 2017 [email protected] Possible areas of Conflict Burns Supper The winner will be announced in the Christmas edition of The Royal Friday 30th September Northerner. FOUNDED1854 2 015 1854 TheThe R oyalRoyal N Noortrthehernrn Andand UUniveniversritysit Cylub Club Annual Members’ and Guests’ Dinner www.a1digitalsolutions.co.uk CLUB Aberdeen Sir Moir Lockhead Aberdeen Wednesday 5th October SNIPPETS Speaker’s Lunch - Malcolm Wright, Congratulations to.... NHS “The Best Restaurant Arthur Alsop, Honorary Life Saturday 8th October Member, and Ian Kernohan, in Town” Fish Evening Senior Member, who celebrated Friday 14th October their birthdays in March with fellow Fine Dining at The Club Speaker’s Supper Members of the ‘Sticky Bun Club’ who Enjoy the finest contemporary British Cuisine Emeritus Professor Henry Ellington meet at the Club on Wednesdays. with our own modern twist, in the best restaurant in town. RGU’s Journey from Hospital Brian and Elsie Murray who to University celebrated their Golden Wedding in Saturday 29th October the Club with a Family Lunch and Annual Dinner and Dance similarly to - Thursday 3rd November Charles and Eleanor Henderson AGM who also celebrated their Golden Wedding. Thursday 10th November Speaker’s Supper Mike Robson, whose son Hamish Emeritus Professor Henry Ellington was capped for Scotland Under 18 The Goldilocks Effect Men’s hockey team against Ireland. (Hamish will be joining the Club on Charles and Eleanor Henderson It’s just Club sense really Saturday 12th November his 21st birthday) celebrate their For Reservations Tel: 01224 583292 Riijstafel Evening Golden Wedding Anniversary Page 22 Page 23