It’s been another terrific year for the Press Club … and we’re ending it with a flourish and some exciting news for 2020.
The club’s annual Christmas party was more popular than ever with some 80 members attending the bash held for the first time at the Groucho Club in Soho.
Club supporters from events during the year including columnist and broadcaster Anne McElvoy joined with others from national newspapers, broadcasters, freelance writers and members representing every aspect of the London media.
Club guest Geoffrey Dodds, secretary of DSMA, said: “Many thanks for a splendid London Press Club Christmas party. I met some really good people, enjoyed the excellent canapés – and all in such wonderful surroundings. It was a great way to kick off the festive season.”
A few days later the festivities continued with the Club’s famous annual tribute to Fleet Street, The Long Lunch. Club members and guests filled the bars of Ye Olde London in Ludgate Hill to restore the spirit of the legendary “long lunches” as glasses were raised through the afternoon. Sponsors Associated British Ports said it was one of the best yet of the Long Lunch events – organised by Club deputy chairman David Selves.
Press Club chairman Doug Wills said: “We’ve had another terrific year with events covering the spectrum of our industry. From starting the year with the debate on “fair pay and opportunities for women” to raising £20,000 for the Journalists Charity with the magnificent Press Ball, it’s been a hugely successful time.
“Next year is already looking amazing. We have a debate about the challenges facing the media on reaching the Z-generation on 10 February, and Robert Peston giving the Cudlipp lecture on 6 March at City University. I’d like to thank the club directors for organising such great events and the members for giving amazing support. Definitely watch out for some more surprise events in 2020.”
