I hope that you have been enjoying the Club’s regular summer spectacular events, augmented by back-to-back sporting occasions on the big screens and culminating in the fortnight of Olympics!

Whilst many members decamp during the summer holidays, those who choose to stay at home have so much to enjoy at Hurlingham, even if it is simply sitting in the grounds with a coffee or a drink.

I am delighted to confirm that we are not being deterred by the lack of dedicated space for our events during the coming year. We already have a programme in place and look forward to welcoming you to our first event on Monday 2 September at 5.45pm, when Hurlingham author, Natasha May (pictured), will talk about her book: Snippets of Conversation from Emphatic Middle-Class Women. The event is free, but please register. This will be followed by Silver Screen Drinks in the Polo Bar. Our Italian course for lower intermediate level begins on Tuesday 17 September and on Monday 7 October, join us for a Movie Matinee, The Greengage Summer (Lewis Gilbert, 1961), followed by tea in the Drawing Room. On the same day, if you are up for the challenge, we are holding a light-hearted Quiz at 5pm, followed by a two-course supper in the Terrace and Dining Rooms. Book tickets online.

"I am delighted to confirm that we are not being deterred by the lack of dedicated space for our events during the coming year"

Part One of our very popular nine-week course on Discovering Classical Music with Dr Bruno Bower begins on Wednesday 9 October. Please book online.

On Tuesday 26 November, at 5.45pm in the Dining Room, Hurlingham Author and Art Historian Veronica Franklin Gould will discuss her latest book – Valiant Seton: Mary Fraser Tytler of Aldourie – a fascinating biography of the symbolist craftswoman, designer and social reformer who was also the second wife of British painter and sculpture George Watts.

There are two more Movie Matinees, both starting at 2pm in the Dining Room – Monday 11 November: The Quiet American (Philip Noyce 2002) and on Monday 2 December: The Go Between (Joseph Losey 1971).

I hope you agree that we have planned an interesting programme to appeal to everyone and look forward to seeing you all in September. For further information please check Highlights or online.

JAYNI BEECROFT, CHAIR, SILVER SCREEN