Member stories: Life at The Odney Club with Andrew

Meet Andrew, just one of our many fantastic members here at Odney. We caught up with him recently to hear, in his own words, what the club means to him.

Tell us a little about yourself...

I’m nearing 74 now, and I spent most of my life in the world of hydraulics engineering, building machines that were shipped all over the globe. But 25 years ago, I decided on a complete change of pace. It was a bit of an accidental career move; we were on holiday for two weeks, and when it came time to head home, I realised I just didn't want to go back to the factory! My wife Jen, asked what I was going to do instead? I told her, "I’ll put a few flyers around the village and see if anyone wants their garden tidied." I wasn’t a trained horticulturist, but I’ve always loved the idea of landscaping. One thing led to another, from tidying borders to laying patios and replacing gutters, and I’ve been self-employed ever since. I still do a bit of work today for the same customers I started with decades ago. To be honest, I spend more time chatting with them now than I do gardening, but they’ve become great friends. These days, I’ve cut back on the tools so I can spend more time here at the club, which is just lovely.

What brought you to the club?

It started with an invitation from our lovely friend Anne, who we’ve known since our days living in Chinnor. Anne worked for the John Lewis Partnership for 35 years, she’s actually the one who sourced the fireplace in the Members’ Lounge!

She and her partner Roger, invited us as guests to Rock the Manor in 2023. What a day that was! We watched a fantastic Elvis tribute, and as it happened to be our 50th wedding anniversary, it felt like the perfect introduction. We’d had a sneak peek once before during the sculpture exhibition you had a few years back and I remember sitting on the lawn, looking back at the Manor and the rowing boats, thinking, "I’d love to be a member here” and well, here I am!

Since you’re our "official Santa," what do you love about volunteering?

I initially hummed and hawed over an email asking for gate volunteers. Jen encouraged me to go for it, and I’m so glad she did. It was a fantastic way to meet people and fellow members.

Becoming Santa was another thing I just fell into. While I was working the gates, I loved chatting with the children, and one of the staff members told me I’d make a great Father Christmas. I absolutely loved the children’s faces when they got a toy and their funny questions... It's just amazing. The parents seem to get a real kick out of it too!

What’s the number one perk of being a member?

For me, it’s the staff. They are brilliant, always going above and beyond with a smile. You can tell they’re genuinely happy to be here. There is also a certain magic to the place; when you drive through those gates and walk up to the Manor, it’s like entering another world. I feel truly privileged to be welcomed here.

Which upcoming events should members mark on their calendars?

Rock the Manor is a must, I love that one. The Christmas party was also a highlight for me. I’d also keep an eye out for any cocktail or menu launch events. We attended one with a fantastic steel band playing in the garden and bunting everywhere; it was a marvellous atmosphere. I could definitely go for another night like that right about now!

Thank you Andrew! Stay tuned for more conversations with our members and team, as we go behind the scenes of the passion and creativity that define our Club.