Members and their guests are invited to lunch at the Old Hall, Queens’ College
Enjoy the opportunity to network over pre-dinner drinks, followed by lunch and talk by Tom Walston, Head of Business Services at the University of Cambridge, is no stranger to initiative and leadership. Before joining the University, he built and ran a couple of local businesses. When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, Tom and his wife felt compelled to act. As part of the UK’s Homes for Ukraine scheme, they welcomed Olga and her two children into their home in May 2022. This experience would not only transform their lives but also inspire a project that saves lives in Ukraine: Convoy4Ukraine.
The Spark of an Idea
In the summer of 2023, Tom travelled to Lviv to volunteer in a field kitchen. Immersed in the effort to provide sustenance to those affected by the war, he was struck by another glaring need: reliable transportation in conflict zones. Many regions in Ukraine rely on vehicles to deliver aid, evacuate civilians, and navigate war-damaged infrastructure. Yet, the vehicles available—especially in remote areas—are often inadequate.
Reflecting on the importance of rugged, versatile vehicles, Tom realized that old 4x4s could fill this gap. These vehicles, often retired or undervalued in the UK, are highly durable and capable of navigating difficult terrain—qualities crucial for humanitarian work in Ukraine. From this realization, Convoy4Ukraine was born.
Looking Ahead
Convoy4Ukraine continues to grow, with plans to expand its fleet and support infrastructure. The initiative also hopes to inspire others to think creatively about supporting Ukraine during this critical time.
Tom’s story—from hosting a refugee family to delivering life-saving vehicles—is a powerful reminder of how individual actions can create ripples of positive change in the face of adversity.
The order of the afternoon:
- 12:00 = Networking and Drinks in the Old Kitchens [access via Porters Lodge]
- 13:00 = Lunch in the Old Hall
- 14:20(ish) = Speaker
- 15:00 = Close and Relocate to the tables reserved at The Eagle for more Networking
Please note our dress code is business attire:
- Men – Jacket with collared shirt and tie
- Ladies – Business smart
- No Jeans or Trainers
Lunch Menu:
In the form when ordering, please indicate if you
- would like the vegetarian options
- have any dietary allergies/intolerances
Starter – (V) Twice Baked Goat’s Cheese Soufflé with Waldorf Salad
Main – Grilled Tuna Steak with Spiced Lentil Dhal, Tenderstem Broccoli, Crispy Chickpea, Coconut and Cumin Cream Sauce
Main (v) – Tempura Battered Tenderstem Broccoli, Braised Butternut Squash with Spiced Lentil Dhal, Crispy Chickpeas, Coconut and Cumin Cream Sauce
Dessert – Limoncello Meringue Tart with Texture of Raspberries
Fairtrade Coffee & Chocolates
TICKETS CLOSE at 5pm on Tues 07 January
Just £39 per person
Tickets
The CBPC’s Committee and Members are really looking forward to welcoming you!
ACCESSING QUEEN’S COLLEGE:
Access to the Lunch is via Queens’ College Porters’ Lodge. Google Map to Porters’ Lodge 8 Silver St, Cambridge CB3 9ES, UK
CAR PARKING:
The closest is less than 5 mins walk at the YourParkingSpace Car Park behind the Graduate Hotel.
The Grand Arcade Car Park which is 5 min walk away.
Some members prefer the Queen Anne Terrace Car Park which is a 15 min walk to the Porters Lodge as driving to the Graduate Hotal and the Grand Arcade can take much more time than the 10 min difference between the walks – and it is significantly cheaper!