IF YOU attended a formal event in the 1970s, 1980s or 1990s, there’s a good chance you would have met Newport toastmaster Harry Poloway – he was probably the most in-demand toastmaster of the time.

A master of his craft, he ensured events ran seamlessly, big or small and whoever was attending.

A lot of VIPs attended events Harry controlled as well as more ordinary folk who were attending a special function, perhaps a corporate dinner or a charity event. But whether the ‘do’ was big or small, Harry treated it with the same professionalism and good humour, ensuring guests and speakers were addressed correctly as they were introduced and keeping proceedings moving along.

In recognition of the work he has done for Newport, South Wales and for charities, Harry was honoured many times, becoming an MBE, a Knight of the Order of St John and being awarded the BEM.

In an interview with the Argus last year, he said: “I just love meeting people and making people happy. As long as they were happy I was happy.”

And now, following his death at the age of 100, it seems fitting, ladies and gentlemen, that we should charge our glasses and toast the life of Harry Poloway.