On Tuesday 21 May, the Headmaster, Gregg Davies and his wife Alison and Head of Chemistry, Dr Ashok Khare, attended the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Mr Davies was nominated to receive an invitation for his dedication to education and for everything he has achieved in his 15 years as Headmaster. Dr Khare was nominated for his community work over the last 17 years for various organisations in Reading and surrounding Thames Valley area.
Although Mr and Mrs Davies did not meet the Queen or any royals, they had an enjoyable afternoon. Mr Davies said: “I was greatly honoured to be nominated and then chosen. It was terrific to have Alison join me because much of what we have achieved, we have done together. It was a wonderful day, helped by the sunshine, and the fact that everyone there was in a fantastic mood. As a bonus, we saw the back of the Queen, and also saw the Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage in a ‘new suit’ minus milkshake!”
Dr Khare felt very humbled and honoured when he received his invitation: “When I received an invitation for the Garden Party, all who know me said you deserve it Ashok! However, the journey of life has taught me ‘every deserving individual may not be able to get what he/she deserves’. Attending a party was definitely a once in a lifetime experience!”
Just some of Dr Khare’s work includes leading the Reading Hindu Centre since 2003, working with the Reading Faith Forum and Reading Interfaith Group, as well as with schools in the town and nearby universities. On top of all this, he has also worked with scout groups, the police, and the health and prison services in the Reading area.
Whilst Mr Davies and Dr Ashok felt that they were incredibly special, there were around 8,000 people there, as Mr Davies commented: “She does have a very big garden!” However, all of us at the College are immensely proud of their achievements.
