Once more The Farmers Club in Whitehall Court in London hosted our annual Autumn lunch on Friday 3 November.

Before the meal we listened to a presentation by Colour Sergeant Brian Wood MC relating to his service in Iraq, and specifically to the “Danny Boy” battle, the subsequent false accusations of war crimes and his battle with mental health problems resulting both from PTSD and from the five year battle to rebut the specious accusations at the public enquiry into events.

Brian’s talk was incredibly moving, enthralling and truly humbling.  Indeed, it is fair to say none who listened to him had any real concept of what life was like in the heat of battle on the ground. It was one of those moments when you could have heard a pin drop while he talked.

Brian also spoke of his efforts to raise sponsorship funds for those suffering similar mental stresses, by running 25 marathons in 25 days, hopeful of raising around £10,000;  he actually raised £120,000.  And his efforts to raise money for this charity continue to this day but with a bolder target of £1 million.

Brian also brought with him copies of his book, “Double Crossed” published by Penguin, several copies of which were purchased by members – and I’ve now read most of it and it is a very good read. That book subsequently became a Sunday Times best seller, and was made into a BBC TV drama called “Danny Boy”.

After listening to the presentation, 34 members, partners and guests enjoyed another really excellent meal produced by The Farmers Club along with good wine, good conversation and enduring friendships.