Receiving the MBE was, I have to say, a surprising and thoroughly pleasurable experience (and speak-ing as a cynical old adman!).
Richard and a very proud Grandaughter, Leila
So profound thanks to Clive, Iain, Martin, Tim and all the others who helped make it happen. Three weeks ago I went to the Palace for the Investiture with son Jack, his partner Kit and granddaughter Leila. I was so impressed, not just with the incredible professionalism but just how kind and courteous everyone was. Prince Charles did it and he too was very charming. I managed to ask him (in my minute’s chat) when he was going to re-publish his book –The old Man of Lochnagar and he actually laughed and blushed. Sweet really. He had been well briefed and knew of the Crater. After photos in the courtyard we went up to Chinatown for a meal.
One funny thing happened this week which I would like to share. I had to go for an eye scan at a clinic in Guildford and afterwards I was sorting the paper-work etc with the two ladies in the accounts office there, both on computers. At the end of it I said ‘This is a bit embarrassing but I have to tell you. I recently got the MBE and I have been told that it has to be included on all ‘official’ correspondence.’ One of the women looked up and said ‘Sorry I didn’t catch that’ and the other one said ‘Mr Dunning is just telling us that has recently been diagnosed with MBE and we should put it on our records.’
And, as always can I express my appreciation for all your support and dedication that continues to help Lochnagar go from strength to strength. Thanks all.
God bless and I look forward to meeting up during 2017 and beyond.
