Peter Newbold

Peter has a vast experience of business management gained over the last thirty years. Delivering speeches at business seminars in front of large audiences was part of his weekly routine.

That knowledge and experience has been transferred to the more formal role of a Professional Toastmaster

As a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters he is passionate about maintaining the highest standards that are promoted within the Guild.

His appreciation of the demands of his clients always ensures that the style of the event matches the clients’ wishes. Your guests will enjoy the day, but more importantly, you will, because you can relax and enjoy the occasion.

The results speak for themselves

Available to officiate at all types of weddings, Ladies Festivals, formal dinners and other celebrations.

Based in Warwickshire, he is happy to travel to any part of the country and abroad.

Just ask and he will be happy to assist in making that special occasion more special !!

Bob Parker

Bob has been involved in the entertainment and hospitality sector throughout his adult life and is a former DJ and radio presenter.

Following formal training at the Ivor Spencer School for Toastmasters, Bob has regularly acted as Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies during the past 25 years. Whilst most of his work has been weddings (of all cultures) Bob is one of the leading and most knowledgeable Toastmasters on Civic and Masonic events. Bob was made an Honorary Alderman by East Herts District Council in 2011. He has also worked at royal events, Burns Night Suppers. Masonic Ladies Festivals, Civic Dinners and Company and Society Dinners.

Bob lives on the Hertfordshire / Essex Border and has worked at many of the large London Hotels and stately homes throughout the south of England as well as officiating at weddings abroad.

Elected Toastmaster of the Year in 2006 he became Chairman of the Guild the same year, standing down as Chairman in 2023 after 17 years at the helm. Bob remains as Vice Chairman and has been the Training Academy Co-ordinator and a tutor at the Academy for the past 16 years, training many of today’s most knowledgeable and excellent Toastmasters now operating in the UK.

Philip Gardner

Philip Gardner has been trained to the highest standards at the Ivor Spencer School of Professional Toastmasters and is a member of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters.

His considerable professional skills are backed by a career of over 30 years in the Hotel, Catering & Leisure Industry.

Philip has officiated at many events around the UK and abroad including Royal Functions, Celebrity Weddings and Famous Personality Charity Dinners. He has also appeared in several film and television roles in his capacity as a toastmaster, such as Bridget Jones The Edge Of Reason, Channel 4’s Made in Chelsea and BBC’s Wedding Stories.

He prides himself on his style, being professional whilst not regimental or obtrusive. His role is that of liaison throughout your event to ensure it flows apparently quite effortlessly to a successful conclusion.

Philip lives in Hampshire and is pleased to offer his Professional Services at any event throughout the United Kingdom, or in any part of the world.

Peter Minney

My career in leisure began in 1965 as a pioneer in mobile entertainment, a Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies at weddings and functions covering London, Essex and Kent.

I progressed into Senior Management within the leisure and commercial development industry.

Always at the forefront with Pubs, Restaurants, Hotels and Nightclubs, including the Hollywood Group, the largest nightclubs in Europe at the time, and the rebuild due to a fire, of Orsett Hall, Essex, where they run a number of weddings at one time.

A number of years ago I realized that not all Toastmasters were trained in the finer arts that make all the difference to those special occasions and I was grateful to be accepted to be fully trained by the most prestigious Guild in the industry.

The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters, was created and run by Ivor Spencer who officiated at over 1000 Royal events and trained the Queens butlers.

As a trained singer, when required I will always provide the music and sing the Ladies song at Masonic functions if requested.

With Peter in charge on your special day, you can rest assured that everything will go smoothly and you and your guests can just relax and enjoy the occasion.

Tony Appleton

Tony Appleton, Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters has the experience and sensitivity to provide just the right level of attentive service.

His considerable professional skills are backed by a career in the leisure industry followed by training under a Royal Toastmaster.

He is familiar with the particular protocol of the various societies and organisations and can adapt confidently to the specific needs of any event.

All those who have the honour to hold the Fellowship of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters are conscious of the exclusive organisation of which they are a part.

The high standard and good name of the Guild is always upheld during any function they attend.

John Dugdale

John served for 23 years in the Armed Forces (Army) followed by 13 years with the Metropolitan Police. After several years in management roles John finally retired and now lives on the Isle of Wight. John has a wealth of experience in serving everyone from Royalty to the Clergy officiating at Dinners, Masonic functions and Weddings to name but a few.

Qualified in 2009, John was awarded Toastmaster of the year in 2012 through a rigorous process set by the Guild as a result of favourable comments from colleagues, event organisers, brides and others at various functions. In 2016 he was awarded Aspire Magazines Professionals Toastmaster of the Year. Both awards of which John is very proud.

Willing to travel anywhere where his services are required, John will provide the Organiser/Bride with sound professional advice ensuring that the event is trouble free and successful.

Vince Hawkes

You’ll see that I approach my work with a friendly and caring attitude. I’ll keep things professional and stylish throughout your event, whether it’s big or small. But don’t worry, I won’t be obtrusive, stuffy or bossy. This is your special day, and I’m here to make sure everything goes smoothly, so you can sit back, relax and have an amazing time!

I’ll take care of every little detail, so you don’t have to stress about a thing. With my years of experience within the police service, you can be sure that I’m all about precision and attention to detail and I take great pride in my personal appearance. I am very aware of the importance of your day staying on schedule without sacrificing the quality of my performance or professionalism. And hey, although I’m based in Hertfordshire, and predominantly work within the surrounding counties, I’m happy travelling anywhere in the UK (or even beyond!) to make sure your day is absolutely perfect.

Winner of the Regional Toastmaster Category – International Wedding Awards 2022 & receiver of the Highly Commended Award from the Four Counties Wedding Awards 2020.

I’m more than a man in a red coat!

Ashley Powell

Ashley is very proud to have been the youngest ever Senior Deputy President of The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters since its inception in 1990 until 2009. He fulfilled his first professional engagement as a Toastmaster at the age of nineteen and since 1981 has officiated at all types of functions, promotions and occasions in the UK and overseas. Recently, he has had the pleasure of officiating at Gala Events in New York and Moscow.

He has had the honour of introducing many celebrities, dignitaries, statesmen and members of Royalty.

He is delighted to have the distinction of officiating as Toastmaster at the first ever wedding to be broadcast on national commercial radio.

Over the years, Ashley Powell has been engaged to appear on television programmes including ‘Bruce Forsyth’s Generation Game (for this he was engaged in his professional capacity and the contestants had to emulate his expertise), G.M.T.V., Channel 4’s ‘The Big Breakfast’ , ‘Modern Times’ documentary on weddings. He is also a consultant and advisor on Etiquette, Protocol and Time-honoured customs for film, television and theatre productions. He has appeared as a Toastmaster in Thames TV’s ‘The Bill’, Channel 5’s ‘Open House with Gloria Hunniford’, BBC’s ‘Blue Peter’ and is a regular contributor on UK TV Food’s ‘Great Food Live’ and Granada TV’s ‘This Morning’ with Fern Britton and Philip Schofield.

He is delighted to be included in the very prestigious Debrett’s ‘People of Today’ and extremely honoured to be the recipient of ‘TOASTMASTER OF THE YEAR 2001 Award presented by The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters.

Stephen Watson

Stephen trained as a Toastmaster in 1994 and joined the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters shortly afterwards. Stephen has officiated at numerous events since then. Although he specialises in weddings, annual dinners and Masonic Ladies Nights, he has also worked at charity balls and product launches.

Stephen is based in the Southwest of England but is prepared to travel to any location, both in this country and abroad.

Stephen is very proud and honoured that the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters voted him Toastmaster of the year for 2008.

Bernard Smith

Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters.

Lives in Majorca (International connection) and is happy to officiate at all types of functions.

Michael Fieldhouse

A fully trained and very experienced professional MC and Toastmaster with a background of serving the public and event planning, Mike cuts an impressive figure in his red coat. Whatever the occasion, he will transform your event into a most memorable and special occasion. Whilst he observes the correct protocol and etiquette, his warm sense of humour and personality ensures that people relate to him and have a most enjoyable time.

Mike travels throughout England and Wales to deliver his services. He has a safe pair of hands and will sensitively deal with any problems that might arise in his unflappable and proficient manner to ensure the success of your function.

He is always available to offer advice and ease any worries that a client might harbour until the special day arrives.

Mike’s Services include:

• Weddings – English and all faiths including Asian and same sex
• Corporate Dinners
• Award Ceremonies and Conferences
• Gala and Charity Balls
• Charity Auctions
• Civic Functions
• Masonic Ladies Festivals and “White Table” events.

An accomplished after dinner speaker who willingly offers guidance on speech making or event planning. Mike looks forward to discussing your needs and individual requirements without obligation.

Personal web site – www.michaelfieldhouse-toastmaster.co.uk

James Hasler

Engaging James for your event allows you to relax and have your day run the way you want it.

With over 10 years’ experience as an International Professional Toastmaster, James has run over 1000 events in his Red Coat, or rather coats as he is on Coat 3 now! In that time, he has become one of the City of London’s leading toastmasters running between 8 and 10 dinners at the Mansion House a year and one of the Country’s leading Asian Wedding specialist Toastmasters.

His experience in industry before he took up the gavel was in customer service and it allowed him to work with, and work for, people from all walks of life. He is equally at home with those at the sharp end, the shop or workshop floor, as he is dealing with celebrity and even royalty, all of whom he has experience of serving directly. Therefore, no matter what the event, he works well with all the other suppliers to ensure that everything is a success, as well as putting all your guests or delegates at ease.

James truly is an International Professional Toastmaster, leading weddings and events throughout the world, having already worked in the 3 Vs – Venice, Vienna and (Las) Vegas as well as many other European destinations. However, that being said, James is as happy working in a Barn or Marquee as he is in a Country House, 5 Star Hotel or Historic Venue such as Blenheim Palace where he led a £5m wedding.

When not working directly as a Toastmaster, James is a professional event host running conferences and the like. He is also a presentation skills trainer, working to give many the confidence to speak publicly. He is a professional Voice Artist, where he often combines his Toastmaster work with being a “Voice of God” Announcer at events and interestingly he is a Beadle in the City of London to 6 Livery Companies and Toastmaster to 4 Others. Finally he is a highly successful Charity Auctioneer having helped raise over £2.5m for good causes.

All the above gives him vast experience of running events in a warm and engaging way.

“So, if you want your event to be a success and you want someone to take the strain away by fronting or running it for you, then look no further than James. Not only will you enjoy the occasion more, but so will everyone else.”

Iwan Jones

Peter Smith

Peter Smith has been trained to the highest standards at the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters, and is proud to be a Fellow of the Guild.

With his ability to adapt to the particular requirements of any function large or small, and his wealth of professional expertise, Peter is able to deliver an outstanding level of service.

Peter’s easy-going manner and friendly approach is appreciated by all. With an eye for detail and planning he will always keep proceedings running smoothly. He will remove the stress from the organisers, whatever the occasion, and ensure an enjoyable experience for all those concerned.

Based on the Surrey/Kent border close to both London and the M25, Peter has access to anywhere in the Home Counties. He is also more than happy to travel further afield should the event require it.

Alistair McDonald

I am a proud member of The Guild of International Toastmasters
and i strive to maintain their high standards.

I have been trained at the guild school and since then been on to officiate at many different events.

My years of travelling the world have given me a wide insight into the needs for many different cultures. Also I have been a compeer for various dinners and clubs over the years.

My aim is to be assertive at your event without being the centre of attention. I can be both formal and informal whatever the event needs.

I live on on the Kent/Essex borders but I am willing to travel anywhere.

Stuart Henderson

My name is Stuart Henderson and I trained at the school of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters for what is now my full time profession. I am a family man with family values, who believes in all aspects of these values.

I offer my professional services for any event including as a wedding toastmaster where i can assist with wedding planning and organisation on the special day or at Masonic Festivals, Corporate Dinners, Banquets, Barmitzvahs or Parties.

My many skills, gained through over 20 years of running my own successful retail business, enable me to ensure that your event runs as smoothly as you would expect. These skills allow me to demonstrate the professionalism that a fellow of the Guild of International Toastmasters prides him or herself on so that you can be totally relaxed and satisfied in my appointment. While I offer all the services you expect from a Professional Toastmaster, I can assure you that my style is as formal or informal as you require it to be, as, after all, it is your occasion.

I pride myself on my style and being professional whilst non regimental or obstructive. My role is that of liaison throughout your event, to ensure it flows apparently quite effortlessly to a successful conclusion.

I am happy to offer my professional services at any event in the United Kingdom or Europe.

Ronnie Booth

My name is Ronnie Booth and I am a fully trained and qualified Professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies.

I trained at the school of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters and am proud to be a Fellow of the Guild.

My background is thirty years as a Fire Service Officer and have considerable experience of dealing with people from all walks of life. This is a trait I now find extremely useful when carrying out my Toastmaster duties.

I am able to undertake all Toastmaster duties and look forward to being of service to clients both old and new. I pride myself on my professional and helpful style and look forward to ensuring your event is just the way you imagined it would be.

Distance is no object for me and I am more than happy to carry out my Toastmaster duties anywhere within the United Kingdom or Europe.

Claire Bostel

Engage Claire Bostel as your Toastmaster and you are investing in a professional who delights in her role; she offers you her expertise in a friendly and engaging manner; her skill and experience will ensure that your event is a great success!

Claire Bostel is a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters and wears the badge with great pride; it represents the highest standard of training and examination in the industry.

Her professional background is in entertainment and hospitality, organizing special events for corporate and private clients throughout the UK and abroad. Claire now invests this skill and experience in the service she offers you as your Toastmaster; officiating at your special event and co-ordinating all elements of the occasion so that your celebration runs seamlessly and as planned.

As your Master of Ceremonies Claire has a confident but unobtrusive style that varies to suit the protocol and requirements of the occasion. She works closely with you to ensure that you receive sound advice and the right level of attentive service.

As a qualified Blue Badge Tourist Guide and lecturer she can also be engaged to lead guided tours or give talks on the local area for your guests’ entertainment or you may take advantage of her speech writing service.

Claire lives in Yorkshire but travels extensively; she is pleased to offer her professional services at any event throughout the UK and internationally; she is well used to unsocial hours and to traveling long distances.

Book Claire Bostel as your Toastmaster and you can relax, assured of a happy, enjoyable and highly successful event.

Testimonials

“Claire is a VERY effective communicator. Her clear diction means that people can clearly hear and understand her, which is very important especially, if someone finds English difficult. Claire has abundant energy and is very creative in her approach to dealing with people. She has an easy, engaging manner which people warm to and has the ability to communicate with people at all levels. She has a very caring nature so will connect with small children and the elderly, and everyone in between. Claire has a lovely sense of humour. When she presents she is animated which catches the attention of everyone; she is also adept at noticing if someone is not engaging with her and will gently bring them into the fold.”

“Claire is delightful and did a super job.”

‘A master of the art of entertaining.’ ‘… energetic, articulate, knowledgeable, concerned and ultra-effective’

“Claire’s organised approach, caring attention and charming personality.”

John Fisher

My name is John Fisher and I am proud to be a Fellow of The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters. I have attended the toastmaster course and been trained by members of the Guild.

I have spent over 30 years in the Police Service and have considerable skills in dealing with people from all walks of life.

I am based in Swindon Wiltshire but able to travel anywhere in the country or abroad if required.

I am sure that at your wedding or special occasion I can make your event one where you can relax and enjoy.

So if you want a Toastmaster or Master of Ceremonies then please let me know and I will endeavour to make it an event that you will truly remember.

Guy Reynolds

With a background in planning large scale events, I can ensure your day will run smoothly and on time. Whether it be a small dinner party or large scale function, my training with the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters, means that your wedding, party or function is in safe hands.

Gerard Dalton

Gerard Dalton FGIntPT

With his larger than life Character & Affable nature Gerard (Ged) Dalton is a commanding presences Delivering a traditional, elegant, and unique style which will enhance your special Day. His Commitment to his customers & there needs, whilst up holding the traditions set down by the Guild will put your mind at ease and fulfil all your event needs.

He is currently the Company Director of his own Logistics Company.

The Skills he has developed over many years of working in entertainment, teaching & management, Make him the ideal Toastmaster.

He Studied Vocal Training at the Hertfordshire School of Music & he was the Lead vocalist in two music Acts as well as a Disco Disc Jockey for over 20 years.

He has Spent 10 years living in Spain where he was a SCUBA Diving Instructor at the Diving school he owned along with the Bed & Breakfast & small restaurant he Managed with his Wife, Trish.

The Demanding challenge of running this threefold business was solely aimed at customer satisfaction. Keeping customers entertained & Organised so that there holiday & activates were total fulfilled to their expectations.

He is well versed in Weddings of all Beliefs, Civic Dinners, State Dinners, Corporate events, Bar Mitzvahs, Bat mitzvah, Christenings, Birthday Parties, Gala Dinners, Cocktail Parties, Garden Parties, Award ceremonies and all social and formal occasions. He is happy to travel to any venue anywhere in the world.

He is also experienced in the protocols of & has attended many Masonic Ladies nights. He enjoys & relishes singing the Ladies Song which he has sung many times.

He is a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters. He also Trained & graduated from our excellent Institution.

Chris Green

Chris has been trained to the highest standard at the prestigious “Ivor Spencer School” The Guild of International and Professional Toastmasters, and is a Fellow of the Guild and very proud to be able to uphold this level of professionalism enabling to make your wedding, whatever the style, to a corporate business meeting happen the way you want it to.

I offer my professional services for any event including as a wedding toastmaster also assisting with the wedding planning and organisation on that special day at any Masonic Festivals, Corporate Dinners, Banquets, Barmitzvahs or Cocktail Parties.

I will make sure that your day or evening goes to plan no matter what situations arise although the weather is out of our jurisdiction, contingency plans will support.

Based in Dorset and happy to accommodate travel.

Anoop Lakhanpal

Anoop Lakhanpal is known as being charismatic and people orientated, at a young age he ran the family business and was very much part of the community. He enjoyed helping and serving the community. Helping others is a part of his mantra in life and in business by making sure people are happy and fully satisfied. This was evident in his career when he was a carer, after working in the retail industry.

Anoop is based in Scotland and is happy to officiate at all types of functions (big or small), such as: weddings, civil partnerships, Formal and civic dinners, cocktail parties, Burns Night Suppers and any other religious or social occasions, wherever that adventure may be nationally or internationally.

Nick Burns

Nick completed the Guild’s intensive training course and interview process in 2015. His former career has offered him the opportunity to plan, attend and officiate at a large number of formal functions in every corner of the world. As a member of Her Majesty’s Diplomatic Service for almost 30 years, he served in Western and Central Europe, the Middle East, South East Asia and the Asia Pacific region, with several stints at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office back in the UK. Whilst the endless supply of Ferrero Rocher chocolates at embassy parties is sadly a myth, Nick has organised functions for VIP visitors, including royalty, politicians and other dignitaries, from cocktail parties to formal dinners, as well as corporate events and Queen’s Birthday Parties, the equivalent of a national day celebration, with sometimes as many as 1000 attending.

During his time overseas, he was also able to attend and observe with great interest the weddings of his local friends and colleagues or their children, ceremonies from many cultures and different faiths.

Nick has also organised numerous masonic lodge ladies weekends and many other charitable functions here in the UK, such as race and quiz nights, which he also writes and often hosts.

Diana Spellman

Living within close commuting distance to the City of London and Stansted Airport, I have organised, hosted and spoken at many a Corporate Event. I’m accustomed to performing for and to an audience to the highest standards. These standards are echoed within the training of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters. I am honoured to be qualified as a Fellow of the Guild.

Having run my own business for almost 30 years, the proven organisational abilities and experience which has served me well, will be brought to your experience for your event as a toastmaster.

A natural public speaker, I have also featured in many aspects of Media including Radio and TV as well as working as Master of Ceremonies for many private events.

My training, skills and experience, presence, eye for detail and comfort of the organisers, hosts, guests and audience, equip me to be an ideal Toastmaster for any function, celebration, dinner party, civic or special event. You’ll feel confident and free to fully enjoy your function with ease of mind and comfort knowing the flow of guest and speaker experiences are being taken care of.

Having lived in Australia, South Africa and China as well as having travelled widely, makes me an ideal Toastmaster for both local and overseas appointments.

Peter Hancock

Peter Hancock is an award-winning professional conference and awards host, after-dinner speaker and Professional Toastmaster. With over 40 years in the hospitality industry, including 21 years as Chief Executive at Pride of Britain Hotels, Peter has a wealth of experience which has fuelled his keen sense of humour and his ever-growing reputation for relating stories that have been entertaining guests and delegates at events up and down the country.

Recent accolades include winner of the Hotel Catey award for ‘Outstanding Contribution’ and winner of the ‘Outstanding Contribution’ award at the Independent Hotel Show, both in 2021.

In addition to his role as a master of ceremonies he is an ambassador for the Hospitality Action charity and The Gold Service Scholarship. He is a Master Innholder, a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and is currently Chair of the Quality Advisory Board for Visit England and the AA.

Chris Rose

Chris Rose has been professionally trained to the very high standards at the well regarded training school created by Ivor Spencer and was delighted to be invited to become a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters.

With his organising skills through 30 years in public services along with the humility and protocol required of a toastmaster you can rest assured Chris will enable you to relax and enjoy your special occasion along with your family, friends and guests.

Chris lives in Hertfordshire and is willing to travel to any destination.

Jim Grant

Jim is a qualified Professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies having trained with the prestigious Guild of International Professional Toastmasters

Jim has enjoyed a successful public life as a deputy headteacher, working in a variety of secondary schools in the North West and East of England. He has organised several weddings and other events since receiving his award.

Jim upholds the excellent standards of the Guild, Jim lives in Stamford, Lincolnshire, a town on the cusp of four counties with easy access to the A1.

Simon Aylott

Hello and a very warm welcome to you.

We all know how timely and costly it is arranging your special day. So this is where I come in and put your beautifully arranged wedding plans into action, allowing you to relax and enjoy, reassured that your Wedding Day runs smoothly and you, your partner and guests will have a day to remember forever.

Jason Simmons

Jason Simmons is a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters and he has been trained, by the guild to the highest industry standard.

Whatever the occasion Jason will ensure that his warmth, humour and professionalism will make your special event truly memorable.

Jason began as a trained actor making many stage and tv appearances. He then moved on to teaching and is now a sought after professional Toastmaster based in North London.

Jason is proficient in over 43 separate types of ceremonies and events. Specialising in English Weddings, all Jewish events (including weddings and Barmitzvahs). All faith weddings, Single sex weddings, Masonic ladies festivals, entertainment events, award ceremonies, corporate events, charity auctions, product launches, public speaking and much, much more.

Mark Johnson

Mark Johnson has been trained to the highest standards, and is proud to be a Fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmaster.
Mark has been the Events Business all his adult life, and has travelled extensively because of the business, and having recently turned 60, feels that being a Professional Toastmaster is a natural progression of an exciting career.

Mark lives near York, and in his free time has a passion for sailing on his yacht in South Devon.

Mark is pleased to offer his Professional Services throughout the UK and Mainland Europe.

Charles Dolan

Charles Dolan has been trained to the highest standards established at the Ivor Spencer School of Professional Toastmasters through the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters of which he holds the title of Fellow. ( F.G.Int.P.T. )

His considerable professional management skills are backed by a career of over 40 years in the Oil & Gas, Power and Petrochemical Industry.

Charles is available as Toastmaster or MC for bookings of all functions including weddings, social functions, TV. Films and Charity Dinners.

He prides himself on his personal ability of being professional whilst not regimental or obtrusive.

His role is that of liaison throughout your event to ensure it flows quite effortlessly to a successful conclusion.

Charles lives in the North East of England and is pleased to offer his Professional Services at any event throughout the United Kingdom, or in any part of the world.

Rod Brafield

Rod is a retired Police Officer and served for more than 31 years with the Metropolitan Police Service, notably within the Royalty Protection Command as a Close Protection Officer and as the operational head of The Special Escort Group. He has a wealth of experience in the planning and delivery of public and private ceremonies and events including Occasions of State. Therefore as you might expect, his presentation is immaculate, and his planning thorough. His skill set includes a practical approach to problem solving, the ability to adapt his style to suit any event or client, and the further ability to work seamlessly with other professionals to produce as near a perfect result as possible. The move to a career as a Toastmaster was obvious, as it allows him to continue to use so many of those skills learned in his previous career.

Rod is based in Buckinghamshire, just outside London and has an extensive knowledge of venues within London and the Home Counties. He is happy to travel throughout the UK or abroad and undertake any type of private or corporate event.

In private, Rod devotes his time to his wife and two daughters, Lola the family Boxer dog, motorcycling and photography. He is also the holder of an All London Licensed Taxi (Black Cab) Licence, having passed the infamous Knowledge of London examinations, and this gives him total flexibility to maintain a portfolio career.

Humphrey Sheppard

Being front of house in the Hotel, Catering and Hospitality Industry for almost 50 years with continuous fun and hard work in many prestigious venues including Leeds Castle, Warwick Castle, Earls Court and Olympia, I naturally progressed into becoming a Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies.

I thoroughly enjoy my role of Toastmaster at weddings and functions, and working with my new and old clients we develop a trusting and professional relationship, giving me the chance to enjoy myself and give pleasure to others, knowing that all the venues appreciate my past and present occupation.

I have always known how to look after my clients and give them the confidence that when they have booked me they can relax and leave the running of the event in capable hands.

Living on the Wiltshire / Hampshire border I am well placed for attending events in the West Country, Southern England, M4 Corridor and A34 corridor.

Grant Howlett

Grant has been trained to the highest standards in the world at The Academy of The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters.

As a Fellow of the guild, Grant is a qualified Toastmaster & Master of Ceremonies.

Before retiring in 2019, Grant has had over 40 years of international hospitality experience. Managing, owning and consulting at award winning 4/5 star hotels on both sides of the Atlantic. He was also director of the Royal Jordanian Palaces for King Hussein of Jordan.

Grant has personal experience in public speaking at hospitality conferences, forums and after dinner speaking. Grant has been an MC for a variety of events large and small in his extensive career.

Grant has directly orchestrated numerous weddings and functions for VIP’s, celebrities and middle eastern royalty and has organised summit conferences for international heads of state.

If you decide to engage the personal services of Grant for your bespoke wedding or event. no matter how big or small, Grant will ensure, through his exacting standards, that you will be able to relax and have confidence that your special day will run smoothly, from start to finish.

Grant lives in Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, and is willing to travel to any destination in the world to offer his bespoke services as your Toastmaster or Master of Ceremonies.

David Mote

Hello. I am a fully trained fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters and live in Dartford, which is on the Kent, Essex and Greater London borders. Being located only ten minutes from the M25 and Ebbsfleet International Railway Station I can easily support events across the South East of England, Central London and beyond.

Having worked within the Marketing and Communication industry for over forty years, which included both event management and public speaking, I decided to become a toastmaster when I entered the world of retirement.

I am also a former Mayor of Dartford and so am well versed with Civic Ceremonial protocol.

On the actual day of your event my primary role as the Toastmaster or Master of Ceremonies is to support and implement your event’s scheduled activities, miscellaneous requirements, and specific protocols with a minimum of fuss. This will allow you, as the host, to enjoy your event with your guests and friends.

So, no matter what event you are planning, if you want it to run seamlessly to time and without a fuss, why not get in touch and see how I can help you make this happen?

Ian Blair

I’m very honoured to be a Fellow of The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters. I was given the highest of training and it is my aim to continue this and to uphold their standards for every event I’m involved with.

I served for nine years in the Scots Guards and on leaving the Regiment, I was employed in Parliament at the House of Commons, where I worked for forty-two years covering a variety of roles. I helped at four large international conferences, which brought me into contact with dignitaries from across the world. I therefore feel I am well-versed in helping people from all walks of life.

I live in the Scottish Borders near Kelso. Edinburgh and Glasgow are an hour away and I’m very close to Berwick upon Tweed. The A1 is very close along with the other motorways so I can easily get to your event wherever it maybe.

It would be a pleasure to help you with your event, whatever it maybe. I will be a relaxing yet reliable presence on whom you will be able to count on for any eventuality. You’ll know I’m there but without being in the limelight.

Sean Kulan

My name is Sean Kulan and I am a fully trained fellow of the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters since November 2019.  I live in Winnersh, which is in the County of Berkshire and with good links to London and the M4/M3 and M25.

Prior to retiring in 2022, I worked within building management for Local Councils and within a private school setting for the last 20 years of my working career.

My prime role as Toastmaster on the day of your event is to ensure that the day runs as smoothly and seamlessly as possible.  I am able to be as relaxed or as formal as you want the day to go – it’s your day after all and all I want is for you to enjoy the day.

Andrew Rowberry

Andrew has been trained as a Professional Toastmaster to meet the highest standards expected of him by the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters. He is very proud to be a Fellow of the Guild and is also an accomplished after dinner speaker having spent numerous years with Toastmasters International honing his craft.

He is based in Pembrokeshire West Wales and covers the whole of Wales and the West but will travel further afield to wield the gavel.

Rob Marshall MBE

My name is Rob Marshall MBE and I am a fully trained, Professional Toastmaster, trained by the Guild of International, Professional Toastmasters and I am a proud to be a fellow of the Guild.

My background is military and after 39 years in the British Army I have a keen eye for detail and a passion for ceremony with a very friendly manner. I have organised and conducted many Civic and Royal events and I will take time to make sure that all of your requirements are met for your special occasion.

I believe in listening to the client and with my clear and warm manner you will feel that you can relax and enjoy your event without any worry.

Travel is not an issue for me, I am based in Chertsey, Surrey but happy with country wide and international travel.

Lee Roberts

I have been in the hospitality industry for over 30 years. Working in many prestigious hotels and private establishments. I have a very approachable manner and enjoy the traditions that a toastmaster will bring to your event. My main expertise is weddings and corporate events. Based in Central Bedfordshire but I’m willing to travel to most destinations.

Ivor Spencer, MBE, DL

Ivor Spencer was proud to be the first Toastmaster to have achieved the honour of officiating at well over 1,000 Royal events, and this was mentioned in the House of Commons on the 3rd February 1992.

Ivor Spencer was very proud to have been presented with the MBE by His Royal Highness Prince Charles, at Buckingham Palace on June 27th 2002, for his services to his profession. He was the very first Toastmaster to have received this award for his services to The Guild of the International Professional Toastmasters.

Ivor Spencer was acknowledged to be Britain’s leading and highest paid and most travelled professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies. The Rt. Worshipful The Lord Mayor of The City of Westminster has said he was the doyen of professional Toastmasters.

He was the Life President and Founder of The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters and one of H.M. Deputy Lieutenants for and in the county of Greater London.

He was an author, after-dinner speaker, lecturer and broadcaster in television and radio, and ran the famous Ivor Spencer International School for Professional Toastmasters.

He was a professional Toastmaster for 40 years and was often called upon to organise very special events. His client list reads like the Times Top Thousand Companies, many are international names including Harrods and Marks & Spencer, and including many leading newspapers. “I, Ivor Spencer, am very proud to have created “The Best After-Dinner Speaker of the Year” Award in 1967. The Award now known as, “The Ivor Spencer Best After-Dinner Speaker of the Year” Award will continue to be sponsored by The Guild of International Professional Toastmasters of which I am the Founder and Life President. Recipients of the Award have been former Prime Minister of Great Britain Baroness Thatcher, Bob Monkhouse, Lord Tonypandy, Jimmy Tarbuck, Sir Peter Ustinov and many other eminent speakers.”

The Ivor Spencer School for Professional Toastmasters has been established for over 30 years.

Michael Knowles

Mike was a proud member of  the Guild of International Professional Toastmasters from 2012 and also served for a time on the Executive Council of the Guild. He was a loyal stalwart attending all the meetings and travelling far and wide to carry out his toastmaster duties.

Mike travelled from Seattle to Switzerland, from Norway to Nairobi. He spent 23 years in the Army and 17 in the pharmaceutical Industry; He had been the Father of the Bride. There is nothing that could happen at your event or wedding that  he not seen before or that he was not equipped to deal with.

Mike Knowles F.G.Int.P.T will be missed by all that knew him.