The Institute of Toastmasters of Great Britain

Members
(Click on a members picture for full details)

Tom Abbott
Tom Abbott
(Hertfordshire)
Steve Ashby
Steve Ashby
(Essex)
Robert Civil
Robert Civil
(Northants)
Deborah Collings
Deborah Collings
(London)
Peter Collis
Peter Collis
(Hampshire)
David DiCara
David DiCara
(Kent)

Roger Galton-Davis
Roger Galton-Davis
(Essex, Herts & Suffolk)
Tony Gilbert
Tony Gilbert
(Kent & Southern England)
Nick Hardy
Nick Hardy
(Kent)
Wes Hollands
Wes Hollands
(Kent)
Graham Hunt
Graham Hunt
(East Anglia)
Peter Morrall
Peter Morrall
(Northants)

John Oakley
John Oakley
(Kent)
T Grey Philips
T Grey Philips
(Swansea)
George Rodger
George Rodger
(Surrey)
Lionel Rose
Lionel Rose
(Mddlesex)
Mervyn Rutter
Mervyn Rutter
(Essex)
Gloria Sweden
Gloria Sweden
(Middlesex)

Graham Thomas
Graham Thomas
(Swansea)
Dennis Surgeon
Dennis Surgeon
(Essex)
Ray Weedon
Ray Weedon
(Dorset)
Jonathan Wyner
Jonathan Wyner
(Essex)

Jim Attridge (Retired)
Tel: 020 83192352
E-mail jim-doreen272@hotmail.co.uk

Leslie Harris (Retired)
Surrey
Tel: 01483 282100
E-Mail leslieharris001@outlook.com

John Lillie (Retired)
Hampshire


Why use a Toastmaster

        By engaging a member of The Institute of Toastmasters of Great Britain you are sure that your event will run seamlessly and in the manner you would wish. The services of a professional and qualified Toastmaster allows an event organiser to safely relax in the knowledge that their event is under control and that any issue which may arise will be dealt with discreetly and with minimum fuss. All members by virtue of their membership of the Institute have ‘Public Liability’ insurance cover in the amount of £5,000,000.




Tom Abbott

Tom Abbott
Senior Vice President
Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies

Based in Hertfordshire

Mobile : 07876 610205

toms.abbott@btinternet.com



Steve Ashby

Steve Ashby
Past President & Chairman.
Professional Toastmaster & Master of Ceremonies.

        The role of a Toastmaster & Master of Ceremonies is to ensure that your event is enjoyed by host and guests alike. Steve is highly qualified with 20 years’ experience. He is a Past President of the Guild of Essex Toastmasters and is currently a Senior Vice President of the Institute of Toastmasters of Great Britain. Steve is renowned for his professionalism and dedication with which he researches each and every event at which he officiates. Prior to events, Steve will meet with all parties involved, gaining a full understanding of what is required, discussing options with a bride, bridegroom & bridal party, or the hosts of the event, Venue & Banqueting Managers, florists, photographers, videographers, DJ’s and bands. Steve can then control the timing and flow of the event to those set out by the hosts.

        His calming presence commands attention and respect when officiating at any event, from traditional and other culture weddings, corporate dinners & events, Masonic Ladies Festivals, renewal of vows, anniversaries, birthdays, bar mitzvahs, bat mitzvahs, charitable events, presentations, announcements, auctions and any other gala event. All guests are greeted to ensure their comfort and needs are fully met. Steve will be their point of contact allowing the hosts to enjoy their event safe in the knowledge that their guests are in capable hands. Steve has a modern style as a Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies and is an asset to any event.

Tel : 01702 302713 Mob : 07885 630550

Email : purpleservices@hotmail.co.uk



ROBERT E.G. CIVIL

ROBERT E.G. CIVIL F. Inst. T.G.B
Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies

        Robert E.G. Civil has been a Toastmaster since 1980 and has often officiated in the presence of Royalty and High Government Office. Civic, Masonic, Rotary events and Wedding Receptions are further enjoyed when entrusted into his capable hands. Robert is always available to offer his expertise, in a professional and friendly manner, to enhance your every event.

Tel: 01536 482395 Mob: 07740 553535

Email : robertegcivil@yahoo.co.uk



Deborah Collings

Deborah Collings
Past President

        I have been a Toastmaster since the early 1990's and I am a highly respected member within the Institute of Toastmasters of Great Britain. Over the years I have officiated at a wide range of functions and events, which includes Ladies Masonic evenings, Weddings, Barmitzvahs, Round Table Nights as well as giving talks to various charities. I work very closely with all caterers, photographers and banqueting management.

        My young, flexible style compliments any type of function both formal or informal. I am very capable of handling any difficult or unexpected situations with much professionalism and you would find my approach to a function both refreshing and modern without losing the traditional touch of the Professional Master of Ceremonies. My attire includes the recognised regalia and depending upon the occasion, I could dress in either black trousers or a black skirt. This to be discussed at the time of enquiry or appointment.

Tel: 0208-207-5686

Email : debcollings@aol.com

Web : www.toastmaster-deborahcollings.co.uk



Peter Collis

Peter Collis
Past President

        Peter has been a Toastmaster since 1992 and he became a Member of The Institute of Toastmasters of Great Britain in 1998. He has served as a Member of the Executive Council of the Institute and was elevated to the Office of President in May 2006.

        During his long career as a full time Professional Toastmaster, Peter has officiated at almost every type of Function, Civil, Corporate, Masonic Ladies’ Festivals, Round Table Nights, Sporting Dinners, Batmitzvahs and of course Wedding Receptions of all faiths and denominations and Same Gender Commitment Ceremonies, all fall within the compass of Peter’s expertise.

        Peter, together with his wife Linda, also runs a Function Organising and Coordinating business, so from every respect Peter fully understands the requirements, the detail, protocol and etiquette needed for all Functions.

Tel: 01590 641194 Mob: 07515 442748

Email : peter_collis@icloud.com

Web : www.functionsrus.com



David DiCara

David DiCara

        I have been a Professional Toastmaster since 2014 and have had the pleasure of doing many Weddings, Masonic Ladies’ Festivals, Social Dinners, Charity Auctions and Corporate and Business Events around London and the South-east and am available to work Internationally.

        Respect, courtesy, co-operation, attention to detail, communication – these are all key words to my role as a Toastmaster and I would describe myself as bringing structure with a smile; formal as required but otherwise friendly and engaging and always effective.

        Give me a call and let’s discuss how I can help make your event even more special.

Tel: O7764 897739

Email : david@toastmasterdaviddicara.co.uk

Web : www.toastmasterdaviddicara.co.uk

Facebook Reviews : www.facebook.com/ToastmasterDavidDiCara/reviews



Roger Galton-Davis

Roger Galton-Davis
Junior Vice President

        I have officiated at many wonderful functions over the years, covering a wide spectrum – from the grandest to the more modest. I pride myself on a sharp eye for detail and personal presentation of the highest calibre. Above all I am committed to the very strong awareness of the role that a Professional Toastmaster brings to any occasion, by ensuring and promoting harmony and teamwork!

        My purpose is to help the client “feel at ease” and for them to be relaxed in the knowledge that they are in safe, capable hands to oversee and run their Event. Whether it be a Wedding – where the client is anxious on their most important of days and I can offer advice and even assistance with delivering those “Speeches” which often bring such fear and trepidation. A Corporate Function where “exacting standards” are required or Charity Auctions where good humour and sincerity are needed.

        My role demands protocols and formality yet having a sense of fun (with decorum) is always a great asset, which I am confident I can offer to enable guests to enjoy their experience and remember their day for all the right reasons! I will add the personal touch to suit your needs and would welcome the opportunity to discuss your requirements without obligation.

Tel : 07940 878520

Email : 888rgd@gmail.com



Tony Gilbert

Tony Gilbert
Past President, Fellow and Hon Secretary.

        Tony’s personal view of the role of a Toastmaster is to liaise with, advise and assist where required, the event organisers to ensure the smooth running of the function. Their wishes at all time being paramount. An experienced Toastmaster of many years, having officiated at different kinds of events from large corporate events to small intimate family functions, Masonic, regimental, civic, charity dinners and weddings of many different religions, beliefs and cultures.

Tel: 07855-824888 / 01622-747700

Email: tonygilbert33@me.com

Web: www.toastmaster-tony.co.uk



Nick Hardy

Nick Hardy
President

        As a Toastmaster, I will add that extra touch of dignity and efficiency to your wedding or function. I will bring with me a wealth of experience from within the industry of fine service in both modern and traditional styles. My own aim is to relive the stress and pressure from you leaving you to enjoy the occasion.

        I will pay attention to the detail in a friendly but respectful style. When we first speak my main question is to ask you “what does your day or function looks like for you”, this way I gain your perspective on how you would like your wedding or function. I will then go through the whole function with you point by point agreeing the timings and all that needs to be done beforehand so the day runs smoothly and to time. I will share my experience and advice you where appropriate.

        On the day I will liaise with all the other parties involved in your day and be on hand to escort you, assists your guest, assist photographers, videographers, entertainers, DJ’s, singers, I’ll make any announcements and introduce people as agreed and when required.

Tel : 07973 343448

Email : nick0267@hotmail.com



Wes Hollands

Wes Hollands

        Wes Hollands became a Toastmaster after he retired very early, as sitting down all day watching TV is not his forte. After training and exams to become a Toastmaster, he also became Beadle to two Worshipful Companies and spent eight years supporting the ceremonial before becoming a Liveryman of both. Asked what his favourite function is, he said attend the Mansion House, Guildhall, but most of all making a young couple’s day the best day ever, so the memories last forever. His style is professional with a smile and the confidence that he knows exactly what he’s doing, and the client requires. His favourite saying is “it’s great to put smiles on people’s faces”.

Tel : 01634 272881 Mob : 07860 949263

Email : weshollands@gmail.com



Graham Hunt

Graham Hunt
Past President

        A quintessential British Element recommended for the success for all formal functions. Royal Occasions, Banquets, Balls and Dinners, Civic Ceremonies, Presentations, Burns and Ladies Festivals, Bar Mitzvahs and Weddings of all societies and cultures. Graham, professionally trained, has substantial experience officiating at prestigious functions and weddings of different cultures. He is a Past President of the Institute and Past President of the Federation of Professional Toastmasters and the Association UKSchool of Professional Toastmasters, each organisation dedicated to and diligent in maintaining and improving standards of the toastmaster. He is adept at ensuring your function proceeds smoothly, efficiently according to clients' requirement with the essential added ingredient of style.

Tel : 01502 500317

Email : grahamhunt@btinternet.com



Peter Morrall

Peter Morrall
Past President

Based in Northants

Tel : 01604 810824

Email : peter.morrall@tinyworld.co.uk



John Oakley

John Oakley
Past President & Treasurer

        John’s attention to detail, friendly, respectful style, and ability to take control will ensure that your event will proceed smoothly and remove the pressure from you. Much of a Toastmasters work is at weddings, resplendent in red coat, white tie and waistcoat they will add extra style to any wedding. They will provide confidence and be a calming influence on the bridal party, their expertise of etiquette and protocol will ensure that all those with roles to play during the reception do so in the right order, liaison with all parties including caterers & photographers will ensure that things run smoothly. Ladies Nights and Dinners will have more style under the direction of a professional toastmaster. He will assemble the guests, announce special guests and ‘top table’ organise raffles and auctions, present speakers and any cabaret acts, and ensure smooth running.

        At Charity Events and Corporate Functions the toastmaster maintains discrete control and ensures that everyone is in the right place at the right time, speakers can be announced and proceedings wound up. Behind the scenes the toastmaster is doing everything necessary to ensure a successful event.

Tel : 01622 728059

Email : info@toastmasterskent.co.uk

Web : www.toastmasterskent.co.uk



T. Grey Philips

T. Grey Philips F.Inst. T.G.B.
Past President & Fellow

        When the need arises and the situation calls for procedure, etiquette, protocol and discreet guidance, I would be pleased to offer my professional services as a Toastmaster. With over 10 years’ experience, my expertise ensures the formal or informal occasion will run smoothly; providing assistance and advice before and during the event. I will bring an order of conduct and precedence, which combines formality and the 'Red Tailcoat' to the proceedings without fuss to you as the organiser. Please file this information, with my hope that I may be called upon to organise that special occasion in the future.

        I will officiate at events in the United Kingdom or abroad, i.e. - Royal Occasions, Diplomatic Functions, Institute Dinners, Masonic Festivals, Annual Banquets and Balls, Civic Functions, Charter Presentations, Weddings, Company Promotions, Jewish Functions, Product Launches, Trade Open Days and Receptions. Please do not hesitate to call me on any aspects of the event - I will be pleased to help

Tel : 01792 536815

Email : totgptoastmaster@yahoo.co.uk



George Rodger

George Rodger
Past President, Almoner & Benevolent Fund Administrator

        George Rodger Traditionally dresses in striking red tailcoat and brings experience, professionalism and sparkle to provide the co-ordination that's essential. As a member of the Institute of Toastmasters of Great Britain I will provide a fully professional service backed by a quality assurance of the Toastmasters General Council.

Tel : 0208-669-4994 Mob : 07799-775972

Email : g.rodger522@btinternet.com



Lionel Rose

Lionel Rose

        After training in 1999 I have many years as a Toastmaster & Master of Ceremonies I am able to handle a wide range of celebrations with as much or as little formality you require. These include; Weddings of all denominations, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, Banquets, Balls, Ladies Festivals, Award Ceremonies, Charity Events and Business Lunches.

        The modern Toastmaster liaises closely with the caterer, photographer, DJ or Band and Venue management ensuring that the function runs exactly as you, the Client, would wish. I ensure that should a difficult or unexpected situation arises they are dealt with ensuring that you are able to relax and be a guest at your own celebration. I am available 365 days of the year and is happy to travel to any venue in the U.K. or abroad.

Tel : 020 8429 8466 Mob : 07885 962689

Email : toastmasterleo@aol.com

Web : www.toastmasterleo.com



Mervyn C. V. Rutter

Mervyn C. V. Rutter
Past President

        When planning her wedding day, it is certain that every bride will take steps to ensure that it will run smoothly. Regrettably however, it is certain that at sometime she will have been to a wedding that lacked that important 'sparkle'.

        On reflection the most likely reason for that was that no one was on hand to co-ordinate the reception etiquette procedure and generally to take care of all those little unforeseen emergencies that however carefully things have been planned, can always arise. You may not want to take the chance that this will happen on your SPECIAL DAY.

        A Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies always adds that touch of dignity and efficiency to your wedding in a friendly and courteous manner, ensuring that both families are able to enjoy the day to the full, relaxed in the knowledge that the organisation of the day is in safe and expert hands. Customary matter such as the receiving line, the cutting of the cake and of course the speeches, all have to be managed. The advice of your Toastmaster, which is available to you from the moment he is booked, can often prove invaluable. It may be that up until now you have not thought of engaging such a person for your wedding reception. Possibly you feel that a formally dressed, red coated Master of Ceremonies to be 'over the top'. The modern-day Toastmaster has the ability to adapt to the particular requirements of each individual wedding and his experience enables him to be either the formal professional or the informal linkman, as the circumstances require.

Tel : 01206 385527



Gloria Sweden

Gloria Sweden
Past President

        Since joining the profession in the nineties, Gloria has officiated at a wide range of events. These include; weddings, barmitzvahs, ladies nights, corporate dinners and promotions. Her formative years were spent as a cabaret singer touring England and Europe, latterly presenting Karaoke nights. Her musical knowledge and club and restaurant background make her appreciate the 'behind the scenes' aspects of her work, being able to converse with bands, caterers, banqueting managers and photographers. Care and attention to every detail, and close liaison with all concerned, ensure a smooth-running occasion.

        Whether it be a formal night or a casual party, her flexible style compliments any function. Difficult or unexpected occasions are handled with unflappable ease and no problem is unsolvable. Gloria's aim is to enable her host and hostess to have a worry-free function with maximum enjoyment

Tel : 07949 548653

Email : toastmastergloria@hotmail.com



Graham Thomas

Graham Thomas
Past President & Fellow

        As a Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies Graham is also proud to be a Freeman of the City of London he has officiated at all types of functions and events and his many years of experience and expertise will ensure that your wedding or Formal occasion runs smoothly. He has worked with many well know personalities from the world of politics, entertainment, film, television and sport, who expect and receive a high standard of professionalism.

Tel : 01792 448728 Mob : 07811 611652

Email : toastmastergt@yahoo.co.uk



Dennis Surgeon

Dennis Surgeon
Past President & Past Chairman

        Does your event require the personal touch? If it does, let me introduce myself, I am Dennis Surgeon a qualified Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies, a member of The Institute of Toastmasters GB. If you need a person with a good voice, intelligent approach dignified appearance and a strong personality, just think Dennis Surgeon. My skills can be applied to all sorts of different events anytime, anywhere, Civic & Corporate Functions, V.I.P Receptions, Dinner & Balls, Weddings & Awards and many more events.

        I would welcome the opportunity to discuss your requirements for a professional approach to your event, with no obligation.

Tel : 01733 370733 Mob : 07825 222650

Email : uktoastmaster@btinternet.com

Web : www.uktoastmaster.net



Ray Weedon

Ray Weedon
Past President

        As an experienced Toastmaster Ray Weedon will ensure your event is coordinated perfectly with all etiquette and protocols observed. Ray has officiated at functions and events throughout Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire.

Tel : 01202 882859

Email : toastmaster@rayweedon.co.uk

Web : www.rayweedon.co.uk



Johnathan Wyner

Johnathan Wyner
Past President

        Jonathan Wyner is a professional toastmaster and is able to officiate at a wide range of events, including Weddings, Barmitzvahs, Masonic and Rotary Ladies Nights, Civic and Corporate events will all benefit from his services.

        Imagine a swan gliding gracefully upon the water. This is how guests at a function see a toastmaster. A calm, unhurried, relaxed individual, mostly in the background who simply makes a few announcements. Like the swan, paddling away under the waterline, most of his work is unseen. Jonathan continuously liaises with all concerned including the Host and Hostess, the Bride and Bridegroom and the best man at a wedding or for a Masonic Ladies Night, the President and his Lady and the Function Committee as well as the caterers, the band or disco and the photographer, videographer and any other auxiliary staff.

        His care and meticulous attention to every detail will ensure that your function runs smoothly.

Tel : 07956 341835

Email : jontoast@aol.com