Members from other regions are most welcome to join us! The Bell Hotel King Street Thetford. IP24 2AZ Thetford, known as  the birthplace of Thomas Paine, is steeped in history, The reputedly haunted 15th century Bell Inn is the former lodgings of Dad’s Army cast and crew, with more local history to discover.  It makes a great location for a night or two away! See below for directions. Between 11.00 and 11.30   we will meet in the lounge, with the AGM starting at 12.00. Lunch will follow at 13.00 in the restaurant. A buffet will be provided with assorted salads, sandwiches and desserts. The price is £16.95 pp payable on the day to the Bell Hotel.  This will include a tea and coffee station in the lounge. Other drinks can be purchased separately from the bar or ordered on the day. Please confirm your attendance by Wednesday 25th February and inform us of any allergies or dietary requirements by contacting Nicky Rodgers by email @ rodgers.nichola@gmail.com   . Complimentary parking is available at the hotel park for  guests. Do not use the pay meters but on arrival remember to check in at reception with your number plate.  Thetford is situated just off the A11. Thetford station lies just to the north of the town centre and the River Little Ouse, a short walk from the Bell Hotel. Trains run through here on the Breckland Line between Cambridge and Norwich and the long-distance line between Liverpool Lime Street and Norwich. We look forward to seeing you there!  Nicky and Lynette  

Eleven members attended the OVS Geneva area autumn lunch at Le Patriarche. The restaurant recently moved across the road to the Hôtel de France which was built in 1770 by the private secretary of Voltaire.  It was transformed into a hotel in the 19 th century but still retains some of its original features. Excellent home-made food and good company prevailed as always.  Mary Hamouda, Regional Representative, OVS

Letter from FAFICS President, Jerry Barton, January 2026 Re. The Forthcoming Review of the UN Pension Scheme

LONDON REGION’S FESTIVE LUNCH AT THE WATERWAY RESTAURANT 9 DECEMBER 2025 A huge success with over 30 London members attending. We were fully booked! This time our lunch was held at the Waterway on the canal in Little Venice, a few doors down from last year’s celebration at the Summerhouse. Carole Harris went to great lengths to organize with attention to every detail. Guests were greeted to a complementary glass of bubbly in the bar area, moving into the restaurant beautifully laid out with all the decorations including the traditional crackers. The food was delicious and the atmosphere great – everybody seemed to enjoy themselves immensely. We were honoured with the visit of our new Chair Stephen Rudgard who gave a speech on the work of BAFUNCS. Once again, Shahnaz Lockwood made her legendary truffles beautifully packed in gold boxes for each member, greatly helping also to organize an appropriate venue. A wonderful way to end BAFUNCS London’s activities with great expectations for 2026. Hannah Shabathai, BAFUNCS Regional Representative for London. 24 December 2025