HABERDASHERS’ Monmouth School Combined Cadet Force held its annual Black Tie Dinner Night.

This night is a highly anticipated event in the cadet calendar and this year’s occasion was particularly significant as it is not only celebrated the achievements of their outgoing Year 13 cadets and welcomed Year 12 cadets into the Mess, but also marked the formal 120th Anniversary of the CCF.

The evening brought together current cadets, former members, distinguished guests and supporters to celebrate the rich history and continued success of the contingent.

The Guest of Honour for the evening was Brigadier Nigel Crewe-Read. He was joined by an impressive gathering of guests, including Chair of Governors, Mr Tim Haynes; Head of Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, Mr Melvyn Roffe MBE and Clerk of the Haberdashers’ Company Brigadier Angus Watson.

Among those attending were serving and retired Old Monmothians, including Commondore Andy Ingham RN and Brigadier Nick Davies CBE MC, alongside many other supporters of the CCF.

Following pre-dinner drinks, guests and cadets assembled for a formal photograph on the steps. Adding a unique and memorable touch to the occasion were LCpl Shenkin, the Regimental Mascot of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Welsh, and his handler, Goat Major Sgt Jackson, who joined the group for the photograph.

This year’s dinner was hosted in the Officers’ Mess of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia), one of the most historic military settings in the country.

The contingent extends its sincere thanks to Lieutenant Colonel Steven Little, Commanding Officer of the Regiment, for allowing the use of the Mess and for attending the evening.

During the event, Lt Col Little spoke about the history of both the Mess and the building, as well as the proud heritage of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia), recognised as the oldest reserve regiment in the British Army.

Holding the anniversary dinner in such a distinguished and historic venue added even greater significance to the celebrations and reflected the longstanding traditions shared by both organisations.

Following a dinner and the Loyal Toast to His Majesty The King, guests were treated to a series of speeches reflecting on the achievements of the past year and the legacy of the CCF.

With Contingent Commander Major Andrew White CFAV unable to attend, Major (retired) Ian Lawrence chaired the dinner. In his address, he highlighted the accomplishments of the outgoing Year 13 cadets and reflected on what has been an exceptional year for the contingent.

Among the highlights were the CCF’s attendance at the Sovereign’s Parade at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, as well as the growing number of former cadets who have either recently received commissions or are currently undertaking officer training.

In his speech, Brigadier Nigel Crewe-Read spoke about the long-standing affiliation between the CCF and The Royal Welsh. He expressed particular pride in the fact that the contingent continues to wear the cap badge of the 2nd Battalion, The Monmouthshire Reginment, maintaining a strong connection to its military heritage.