Mistral EC
Mistral USA
Frank Dennis OBE 1926 - 1989
Sadly we have no photograph. If anyone can
send us one we would be extremely grateful.
Taken from us way too young. Died 1989 aged just 62.
Without Frank there would not have been any Mistral Associates.
One of the saddest days of my life, 9 years ahead of Frank's tragic, early death, was in 1980 when I resigned from his company. Having been poached by McQuay Corporation in the United States. Although the move changed my life forever, mostly for the better, I have felt guilty ever since. My mentor and dear friend was clearly hurt, yet still forgave me.
For the following 9 years, wherever I was in the world at the time, a bottle of Highland Park 12 year Single Malt whisky would arrive at my front door at Christmas time. A card sans comment, simply signed - 'Frank'.
Frank: "Where are you taking me this time boy?"
Me, replying due to my turn to reciprocate on our glorious annual reunions. "Gaches, in Morston Frank."
Frank: "It had better be good. In this culinary desert!"
Frank was always disparaging about eateries in Norfolk. A county which is home to many of the best restaurants in Britain. Including Britain's once acknowledged top and Michelin three star restaurant. Trevor Forecast's 'Congham Hall' in Grimston, King's Lynn. Winner of the 1993 West Norfolk Business of the Year award. The following year Mistral won it.
Frank was kidding of course but used to enjoy winding me up! I miss him.
Frank Dennis OBE 1926 - 1989. Former boss, mentor and business partner. A dear old friend.
The late Frank once said to me "I avoid using planes if I can. They rarely locate airports where I want them whilst most ferry ports are on the coast. The best point of entry for my purposes."
Frank and I travelled, mainly by car, storming frontiers across every country in Europe over a period of three years. Laughing like drains during most of that time.
"Frank!"
"Yes boy. What is it?"
"Don't look now but you've got odd shoes on. One black one and one brown one!"
"Never mind boy. Haven't seen my feet for yeeeuars!"
Frank: "We can't possibly stay there boy. Why would you want to book that?!"
Me: "Why not? What's wrong with it?"
Frank: "There isn't a decent restaurant for miles!"
Frank, following an impromptu demand to detour off the autoroute for around 50km in south east France.
"That, boy, is the best restaurant* in the world, bar none. No ifs, no buts. One day, if you are really good then you shall be allowed to eat there. Meantime, drive on."
A Michelin Guide three star restaurant in Roanne, France, 100km north west of the city of Lyon.
La Maison Troisgros restaurant was voted 25th best in the world in the Restaurant magazine Top 50, 2008.
I have still yet to make it. Sorry Frank, dear friend. I'm still just not good enough!
Chris Latham-Smith
Bringing the benefits of computerisation to our industry - without the historically associated problems.
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