The Association has, sadly, got off to a slow start over the past year, as a result of illness and some other issues beyond our control. However, we are now back in action and making plans for the forthcoming year.

We are currently looking at the possibility of holding an event in Oxford this autumn. Further details will be given as soon as we know more.

We also hope to be able to finally start selling Benet’s merchandise before too long. (We have stock but not the means to sell it at present). Again, please watch for further announcements.

For the time being, all announcements will be made on this website and through the Benet’s LinkedIn and Facebook sites, rather than through emails. We are, meanwhile, updating our alumni/alumnae database so please do not be surprised if your see messages on your social media asking for updated details.

Finally, please spare a thought for the 44 Benetians who are still studying at Oxford; we hope that they are all happily settled into their new Colleges.

NEWS

The image of King Charles III on the new British coins was created by Benetian, Martin Jennings (1976). After reading English at Benet’s, Martin took the less obvious path into sculpture and has become well known with his much-loved statues including those of John Betjamin at St Pancras Station, George Orwell at the BBC’s Broadcasting House and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother in St Paul’s Cathedral, all in London. This latest commission from the Royal Mint will be one of the most accessible sculptures in this country. The test run of 50 pence pieces alone numbered 9.6 million units.

Martin was also a very popular after-dinner speaker at Benet’s in the recent past.

DEATHS

We are sorry to announce the following deaths from 2023:

Mr Michael Baatz (1941), d. 20 January 2023, aged 100

Mr Geoffrey Mocatta (1952), d. 12 August 2023

The Reverend Gabriel Daly (1953) d. 3 August 2023

Mr Beric Williams (1956), d. September 2023

Mr Mark Havard (1956), d 9 October 2023

Mr Miles Bellasis (1957), d. 24 January 2023. Miles was a good friend to Benet’s and a great supporter of College events.

Major General Sir Sebastian Roberts (1973), d. 9 March 2023. Obituary here [NB Whilst the various obituaries mention Balliol, this was after his time at Benet’s]

Dates shown in brackets are matriculation dates

Dr Michael Kenworthy-Browne, formerly the College GP, d. 9 February 2023

Finally, please do let us know of any achievements or other news that we can include in future updates.