Farncombe Prize Draw Winner

Ian Lewty:

Following on from the Civil Service Regional Project, we have recently drawn the competition winner of a fantastic leisure break for two at Farncombe Estate, in the Cotswolds. Mr. Ian Lewty, based at the FCO office in Milton Keynes, received his prize from Area Association Chairman, Chris Humble. Mr. Lewty commented that "winning was a delightful surprise" and is considering choosing the 'Modern Damascus and Syria' course offered at Farncombe. His interest in the Middle East emanates from his fascinating career in the Diplomatic Service.

As a university graduate, Mr. Lewty joined the Foreign Office in 1965 and subsequently became a member of CSSC. He was soon given the opportunity to learn Arabic whilst being based in the Middle East region. Having served posts in Beirut, Baghdad, Jedha and also the European city of Paris, Mr. Lewty was appointed as Britain's Ambassador to Bahrain in 1996. As part of his role, he was intimately involved in the diplomatic exchanges between Britain and Bahrain regarding the British Government's increased international focus on Human Rights.

Following his retirement in 2000, Mr. Lewty has been recycled as a Sensitivity Reviewer - officers that are all former Heads of Post (Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consul-Generals). As such, he reviews the FCO's (and other departments' on request) files due to be placed on the open shelves in The National Archives after thirty years.

Although Mr. Lewty works part-time in Milton Keynes, he lives with his wife in Richmond, London. He regularly uses CSSC's nearby Roko Health Club, at Chiswick Bridge. Swimming is the only form of aerobic exercise that he is able to do as he now walks on crutches, but he finds Roko's pool and spa facilities of the highest quality.

Milton Keynes Chairman, Mr Humble, said, "Meeting Ian highlighted to me what CSSC is all about - it is there for all and has something to offer people of all levels and abilities, interested in sport or leisure." Mr. Lewty is also interested in the local benefits that Milton Keynes Area Association offers their members, such as subsidised theatre and cinema tickets, as well as discounted prices on local trips.

Mr. Lewty is clearly someone who, despite not being particularly active, is eager to make the most of his CSSC membership in the two separate regions where he lives and works. CSSC hopes that Mr. Lewty and his wife have a relaxing and enjoyable time at Farncombe.

Luke Roberts