Trafalgar Night 2026

Published 06:52 on 28 Oct 2026

On Friday 23rd October 48 guests enjoyed a  Trafalgar Supper at the Club.  Guest of Honour was Captain Anthony Croke RN (Rtd), Mess President, Lt Graham Nurser (RNR) and Vice President Mr Robert Smith. 

Royal Naval conventions were observed with the loyal toast taken seated and toasts of the day observed with port.  The Rev Debbie Plummer delivered Nelson’s final prayer and said a special grace before the meal. 

Mrs Caroline Evans provided keyboard accompaniment to Heart of Oak, Spanish Ladies, Rule Britannia and Drunken Sailor with singing led by Rear Admiral Bruce Williams CBE, Lt Nurser and Messrs Adrian Parker and James Jones.  

Much humour was derived from Mr Smith’s adherence to mess rules with a number of guests unable to remain at table until the advice was given that ‘those who must may’,

Capt Croke, whose own experience on ships, as a helicopter pilot/trainer and diplomat exemplies the wonderful opportunities afforded to the right person by a Naval career,  gave a vivid and humorous account of the Battle of Trafalgar, emphasising the singular courage and leadership displayed by Lord Nelson.  He then proposed the toast to ‘the Immortal Memory’. 

The whole evening was full of fun and banter and the dining room looked splendid thanks to the hard work of Lucy and the SYC Staff.