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Written by Samantha Fields
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 Last November, HAODS presented the UK Premier of Raffles of Singapore, telling the story of the journeys of Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore. A glittering gala dinner in aid of Alzheimer's Society was held on opening night which included an auction which raised over £9000 for the charity. The top auction prize was a week in Singapore, including two return flights and accommodation in the Stamford Hotel and the iconic Raffles Hotel. The Raffles Gala Night may only be a distant memory for HAODS, but for ex mayor Jeni Wood and her husband Barry, the magic was revisited when they cashed in their vouchers to take the holiday to Singapore. Both Barry and Jeni were so intent on getting the auction prize that at one point they found themselves competing against each other in the auction!
The intrepid pair set off at the end of July to visit the jewel of the East. The very high temperatures and humidity made them wonder at the resilience of Sir Stamford Raffles in wrestling with the climate of the area - and all without air conditioning and DEET! In a non-stop pursuit of the Singapore experience, fortified by statutory Gin Slings and other exotic drinks, they travelled in Raffle's footsteps throughout an island of 4.9million people. Having viewed Singapore from the 56th floor of The Stamford Hotel, they eventually moved to The Raffles Hotel for two days of pampering and the ultimate in luxury. Whilst at The Raffles Hotel they had a conducted tour of the museum by the historian and were delighted to see a painting of Raffles Hotel by local artist Bill Mundy, holding pride of place. Wherever you go in the world there is always a little piece of Henley-on-Thames bringing you back to your roots.
Jeni and Barry would like to thank HAODS for making their once in a lifetime holiday possible. They look forward to the next auction - although they hope that they won't be competing against each other next time. They can also confirm that 'Big Al' resembles Sir Stamford Raffles, with the same noble bearing!
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