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Brian Johnston Event
Blossom Blooming in Memory of Brian Johnston
17/04/2007
A wonderful event was held on Wednesday 11th April, celebrating the memory of the late much loved cricket commentator, Brian Johnston.
Brian was a great supporter of The Westminster Society, and to commemorate his support along with his life and fantastic career, a tree had been planted and a plaque installed, at our Head Office in Croxley Road, after his death in 1994. However, over the years, the tree died and MCC became aware that the plaque had not mentioned Brian's CBE and Military Cross recognition. They kindly offered to donate a replacement tree and have a new plaque installed.
A ceremony therefore took place to unveil this new plaque and beautiful cherry blossom tree, on Wednesday 11th April. The event was attended by Pauline Johnston (Brian's widow and Westminster Society committee member), Keith Bradshaw (MCC's Secretary and Chief Executive) and David Gestetner (President of The Westminster Society), alongwith Vice-Presidents, committee members, service users and Westminster Society staff.
Keith Bradshaw commented:
"It's a great privilege to be involved with today's honours for 'Johnners'. He was a brilliant broadcaster, a distinguished Army officer and an absolute gentleman. To this day, he remains, to millions of people, both a much-loved figure and a sorely missed friend."
After speeches from Pauline Johnston and Keith Bradshaw, refreshments were served whilst the attendees listened to reports from some of Westminster Society's staff on the services available to people with learning disabilities in Westminster. The morning was completed with a tour of the Society's most recently opened service - 291 Harrow Road.
Pauline Johnston said:
"I'm delighted that MCC is honouring Brian with a beautiful plaque and a lovely new tree. Both will be seen and appreciated, for many years to come, by everyone who visits The Westminster Society - where they can see its outstanding work for themselves. It's great to know that Brian's memory lives on."