Cathy and Laurent Frideres have very kindly agreed to open their beautiful home to us and the Dark Blues for a family afternoon enjoying varied refreshments and watching the Races on their Big Screen televisions.

The occasion is open to members of the Oxford and Cambridge Societies and their families, and friends.

Timings: The BBC coverage will start at 13:45, with the first Race, the 79th Women’s Race scheduled to start at 14:21. Cathy and Laurent will welcome people from 13:30, for those who do not wish to miss the pre-race action! The full programme as published is as follows:

• 13:45 – BBC coverage starts
• 14:21 – 79th Women’s Boat Race
• 14:36 – Women’s Reserve Race: Osiris v Blondie
• 14:51 – Men’s Reserve Race: Isis v Goldie
• 15:21 – 170th Men’s Boat Race
• 15:45 – Women’s Presentation (Mortlake)
• 15:55 – Men’s Presentation (Mortlake)
• 16:15 – BBC coverage finishes

As in previous years refreshments will be provided. There will be extensive nibbles, crémant, wine, beer and soft drinks. Last year many of you contributed delicious cakes and other goodies which helped to make the occasion tremendously enjoyable, and you are welcome - and encouraged! - to do the same this year!

If the weather is good, there will be possibilities for the children to play outside in the garden.

We have decided to forego the quiz this time. Last year we had one prepared, but the focus on the rowing and social interaction was such that we never got to it!