In attendance were the leading UK dentists, scholars and professors, along with some of the important figures from the dental trade. The event was held to celebrate 40 years of the UK’s leading peer reviewed subscription journal, Dental Update.
Delegates were treated to a champagne reception before being called to the Long Room to be seated. In spite of the forecast the weather had held and the diners were treated to a stunning view of the infamous Lords pitch.
John Siebert, chairman of George Warman Publications, gave an official welcome before handing over to the man whose brainchild the event was, Stuart Thompson (managing director of George Warman Publications). Stuart spoke with pride on his association with the title, and how its longevity is proof of the importance of quality in publishing. The final pre-dinner speaker was Prof Trevor Burke, editorial director of Dental Update. Forty years is a long time in publishing, but Trevor explained how throughout this time, the journal (there was some discussion between Stuart and Trevor on the distinction between a magazine and a journal) had remained true to its original values, providing quality peer reviewed papers directly relevant to the general dental practitioner.
Quality was the theme of the night, and after a small dig at some of the award ceremonies in the profession which lack that trait Trevor began to give out his own awards. Barry Cockcroft, the chief dental officer for England, actually graduated in 1973 the year Dental Update began – but Trevor explained the records weren’t available to see if the CDO ever actually subscribed to the title. As such he was given a lifetime’s subscription to the journal. Also recognised were Martin Kelleher and Edwina Kidd. Martin is an enthusiastic contributor to the magazine and for his efforts Trevor presented him with a bottle of vintage Scotch whisky from 1973. Edwina, who authored the very first article published in the journal back in May 1973, was presented with a framed copy of her original work.
The meal itself lived up to the venue’s high standards but the after dinner speaker took the standards up to another level. Phil Hammond, doctor, journalist, comedian and broadcaster, was the perfect man to entertain the delegates. His insight into the NHS and his experience of being a care provider meant he was able to discuss subjects with authority as well as hilarity. His speech was perfectly pitched to suit the audience, who had been treated to an evening which oozed quality and class. It was an evening the likes of which the dental world may never see again.