It is with great pleasure that we honour our fabulous Butler, Tony Daly, for 40 years employment with the College. A familiar face to many, he has observed and overseen many changes over the years, including the refurbishment of different rooms and building, such as the wine cellar, increased attention to health and safety in the kitchen, and greater automation of tasks.
Tony reflected, "It doesn't feel like 40 years and I still remember the day I started in 1984. Unemployment was very high at the time and working at a university was a safe job, which I was very pleased to get. I was only 16 and my first post as Buttery Assistant involved doing the washing up and setting up rooms. In 1991, at age 23, I became the youngest Assistant Butler in the University, and then became Butler in 2011 when Kevin Egleston retired. There are a few other staff members who have been here as long, too. Although an increasing part of my job is admin, I still serve High Table twice weekly and at the larger functions, such as the Lord Crewe Supper. I still find the job enjoyable, particularly seeing students returning to the College as alumni."
The Bursar, Alex Spain, said, "We thank Tony for his 40 years of service to the College. His dignified and pleasant manner has set the tone for the College’s dining service, making it a pleasurable experience for all who dine here. He leads an efficient team, quietly employing his deep knowledge of food, wines and service to provide outstanding dining for Fellows, staff, students and our guests."
We're sure many in the College community will join us in raising a metaphorical glass to Tony!