If I was to say ‘Leo’, nearly every visitor who has stayed in the Avon Tyrrell House would know who I meant; for he was until last week our Head Chef, but sadly he hit the retirement age of 65 and he retired after 20 years, 1 million meals and as many yep, yep, yep’s.
We did not let Leo go without a special send off, which started with a get together with about 50 staff, some old employees and the personal attendance of Dave Clarke from Hampton School and Jinty Williamson from Fair Oak Junior School.
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We started the farewell with John Bateman the UK Youth Chief Executive reminding everyone about Leo’s long and loyal service to UK Youth and the quality of service Leo had provided, which was reflected in the fact we rarely received a complaint about the food he served. John presented Leo with an engraved pocket watch, which Leo was thrilled with. Dave and Jinty then said some kind words and gave Leo some gifts from their schools which Leo was very grateful for.
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We did not finish there; we then had a big bag of something for Leo, starting with a rug, then a long greatcoat followed by a pair of shades and a flying hat. Leo was intrigued, especially when we gave him an envelope that he opened, which to his delight had a voucher for a helicopter ride; he then realised this was booked for 40 minutes time.
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Not to worry as after a quick cut of his reirement cake, Sam Roberts was there and had kindly offered to drive him across in his 1934 Ford Model Y Tourer open top. So we bustled him outside and off he went to catch his helicopter and see his beloved New Forest from the air, and complete a flypast over Avon Tyrrell as the staff looked on and waved goodbye.
It is without a doubt a reflection on how highly regarded Leo was as Head Chef by the amount of tributes we received, and good wishes for his retirement from all those who have experienced his culinary skills over the years. He is an exceptional character who will be missed by all and we all wish Leo a very happy retirement.
.....And in case you wondered we have found a replacement for Leo in Hayley Hibberd who is now officially Head Chef at Avon Tyrrell who is already learning the call of the Head Chef, yep, yep, yep, (none of us really know what it means).
To find out more about Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre and the many varied opportunities we offer please contact us on Tel; 01425 672347 or email info@ukyouth.org or view our website www.avontyrrell.org.uk
Remember… experience – learn – develop
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