A weekend in Lille: the Southern Counties
Branch Presidential Meeting 2012
Southern Counties Branch has a tradition of holding its Presidential meetings overseas from
time to time; in recent years the Southern Counties banner has been raised in Bruges,
Barcelona and New York.
Richard Pratt, Branch President 2012-2013, elected to continue this tradition with a scientific
and social meeting in Lille, held at the Couvent des Minimes, a 16th Century convent now
converted into a spectacular hotel and conference venue. The event was titled: 'What to plant
and where to plant it; current perspectives in implant dentistry'. The speakers, Mike Cassidy
and Ravi Saravanamuttu - both well-known and respected national and international lecturers,
working in tandem for the
first time.
The 63 delegates, arriving via Eurostar, Eurotunnel or ferry, enjoyed a two session scientific
meeting held over Friday 16th and Saturday 17th March, intercut with organized social events
and other opportunities to explore the beautiful city of Lille with its many attractions. There
was a tutored local beer tasting, a guided walking tour, an informal bistro dinner where the
wine flowed freely! And to finish, a champagne reception and gala dinner, with a raffle
featuring 'local prizes' of food and wine which raised £1000 for the Benevolent Fund.
We were privileged to have Janet Clarke, BDA President, join us for the meeting, and to have
such excellent on-site sponsor support in Nick from Biotech, Matt and Becky from Crown
Wealth Management, John and Angela from Denplan, and Cliff and Andrea from Henry
Schein Minerva Dental.
Testament to the success of the meeting were the 85-97% 'excellent' satisfaction ratings, and
delegate comments including: 'well done! a great meeting'; 'a superb meeting'; 'an excellent
conference - thoroughly enjoyed myself!'
Ably supported by his committee from Mid-Surrey Section, Richard can be justifiably proud of
launching his Presidential year with such an excellent educational event, and a social
programme with a difference!
Alison Newlyn
Chairman: Mid-Surrey Section
Richard Pratt enjoying some local produce at the Lille 2012 beer tasting!
Branch President Richard Pratt with speakers Mike Cassidy and Ravi Saravanamuttu, and
BDA President Janet Clarke