I have for many years lived in London and now make my home in the developing Docklands area of London, close to Canary Wharf – a very exciting place to be. For several years I worked in Harrods, the world’s finest department store, and met many celebrities, both famous and infamous during a happy career.

Now I do other interesting things and my enjoyable work as Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies becomes increasingly important in life! As well as introducing me to many imposing venues – the Savoy, Dorchester and Grosvenor House Hotels, the Painted Hall at Greenwich, Windsor Castle and the Houses of Parliament for example – I have been privileged to officiate at some major functions elsewhere in and around London.

I much appreciate taking part in events of all sorts: dinners, parties, wedding receptions, charity evenings, press launches and fashion promotions, and meeting a wide variety of interesting people.

Whether you are organising a large formal City banquet or a small village wedding reception, a friendly Toastmaster can assist you with the arrangements and ensure that, on the day itself, everything runs smoothly from beginning to end.

There is much to think about on those special occasions that planning is essential. Let your Toastmaster take the pressure and co-ordinate the proceedings for you – so that things will be done in the way you want and at the time you want them. It can make all the difference to the success and smooth running of any function; and I’m very happy to go anywhere in the country or overseas – my motto is ‘have gavel, will travel’!

As either host or guest, you will want to enjoy your special occasion, knowing that its every aspect will be the responsibility of the Toastmaster on duty.

He will liaise with the banqueting staff, to ensure that the meal is served on time; he will make certain that the musicians are prepared and ready to play at the right moment; he will assist the photographer, check that the microphone and amplification are working; he will be the necessary link-man between the host and speakers and gently inform them of the speaking schedule; he will announce the bridegroom, or the Managing Director, or the famous television presenter who has come to support the event. He may even be able to fix that awkward bow tie and bring you a necessary glass of water! In short, the co-ordination of the event is in his care, running it in the way that you have decided.

Introducing guests and announcing speakers are important parts of the role, but drawing together all the strands of an event – the catering, the music, the toasts, gift presentations and the dancing – is the essence of the Toastmaster’s work.

As a member of the Society of London Toastmasters, I have experience of a wide range of gatherings, from dinners at Hampton Court Palace to country receptions and family parties.

I would be delighted to advise you on your plans, and be there to help you on the day. Among my friends I number photographers, musicians and others who can also contribute towards making a pleasant occasion into one that will remain forever memorable.