Chequers 27th and 28th June 2024 were certainly evenings to remember, and then followed by a morning to remember too! We were so fortunate!
Drinks and canapés were served on the terrace at Chequers on a glorious June evening, with the Rose Garden at its very best. and the Hampden Valley glowing in the evening sun. Guests then moved into The Great Hall to hear Dame Norma Major give an impressive and fascinating talk on Chequers and the history of the house. Her understated knowledge of the house was a delight to listen to.
This was followed by comprehensive tours of the house and grounds led by the Custodians, together with the Head Gardner. Dame Norma signed the updated book on Chequers, which she originally wrote in 1996, and was available for sale. It will surely rank as one of the best Christmas Presents of 2024 in Buckinghamshire. She was accompanied by Sir John Major, and both gave generously of their time talking to guests.
The following morning, Rodney Melville, recently retired from the Chequers Trust, gave the most fascinating insight into Chequers and its inhabitants including some very amusing anecdotes, followed by a tour of the house and gardens.
We are extremely grateful for the help in making the two events such a success, resulting in the record amount of £20,000 being raised for the Trust, and we remain hugely grateful to everyone who supported the two events and in particular several very generous sponsors – our sincere thanks to them.
Caroline Abel Smith
Chair Appeals Committee