MasiSports++ was gifted an evening by the oldest family-run private bank in the UK – C. Hoare & Co. Thirteen generations have run the bank; Alexander Hoare is the senior partner. When you walk into the bank, it has a feeling of history yet modernity, professionalism yet friendliness, and expertise yet caring and social.
The Chairman, Lord Nick McPherson, hosted us at their HQ offices at 37 Fleet Street on the 9th of September to celebrate the progress of MasiSports++. He wanted the panel to have a cricket flavour. Michael Atherton, the MC, and Mike Brearley, both English captains, entertained with current and historical cricket stories and wisdom. I introduced them as ‘cricket royalty’ who have taken over that title from the late, famous Australian captain and commentator, Richie Benaud. The panel included Sir Peter Wanless, previously the CEO of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and President of Somerset County Cricket Club, and Lord Nick McPherson, previously Permanent Secretary to the Treasury from 2005 to 2016 and the Baron of Earl’s Court.
What a panel. The guests, who braved the Tube strike, were enthralled. The room was jam-packed.
The evening had a buzz and warmth and ran seamlessly. The MasiSports+ video was richly applauded. I spoke of the new success of bedding down a sporting and cultural ethos at Masi High, partnerships and future plans. Alex Hetherington, our chair, concluded the addresses.
MasiSports++ now has a real presence in the UK with a real understanding of the extent of our NGO, stretching well past sports, cultural activities, and life skills. Thank you, C. Hoare & Co., for this special evening and unique opportunity.