Mission Statement
The Royal Commonwealth Bath and District Branch is committed to enriching lives through educational outreach, the preservation of Commonwealth history and values, and the integration of modern practices. We celebrate diverse cultural narratives and embrace a shared heritage that unites the member countries of the modern Commonwealth.
Through learning, we empower individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the past while contributing to a more connected and inclusive future. Our work promotes awareness of how the Commonwealth upholds its core values: democracy, sustainable development, environmental protection, and the empowerment of women and young people.
The Bath and District Branch of the Royal Commonwealth Society has been in existence for over 90 years. It is actively involved in supporting students and educational establishments within the Bath area. It does this by providing financial aid and assistance for research, study and voluntary work in Commonwealth countries. It also provides a platform for Commonwealth discussion and organises a number of social events for its members during the year including ( in conjunction with Bath Abbey ) a Commonwealth Affirmation Service, a summer event and Christmas lunch. The branch has strong links with both universities and the mayor’s office in Bath working with other similar organisations in the area to foster international relationships. We are currently working together with Norland College and are in discussion with the multi-ethnic MTM awards team in Bristol.
Past speakers have included Lord Howell, President of the RCS, The Head of Africa Services for the BBC, a previous Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa, Commonwealth Games medal winners and representatives from several Commonwealth High Commissions.
Royal Commonwealth Society
The Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) worldwide was founded in 1868 and is a network of individuals and organisations committed to improving the lives and prospects of Commonwealth citizens across the globe. It is an educational charity which as part of its mission is dedicated to tackling global challenges. Working through a range of educational, civil society, business and governmental networks, the RCS addresses issues that matter to Commonwealth citizens. It runs the Queens Essay Competition, hosts youth forums and organises an annual Observance at Westminster Abbey. It is a facilitator and catalyst for the exchange of ideas. It has over 66 branches globally and organises regular meetings on topical issues. It is strongly supported by the Royal Family. The Queen is the Patron and Duchess of Cornwall, the Vice Patron.
Our Objectives
The objectives of RCS Bath are to spread knowledge about the Commonwealth, and foster respect between its peoples, through:
- Education and Research
- Travel to Commonwealth Countries
- Lectures, Debates, Conferences and Seminars
- Support for Youth Exchanges
- The branch also works with similar local organisations in the area to foster international relationships and members are invited to take part in a variety of co-operative events and functions
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The RCS Bath Constitution can be viewed here.
Click here to view the Draft 2025 Constitution.
Please see below for Trustees Annual Reports:
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
If you would like to join RCS Bath and help further our objectives, an application form is at the attachment:
The Colonel Corner Trust Fund
Colonel Edgar Allan Corner OBE
In 1962, following the death of Colonel Edgar Allan Corner, the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) Bath received a significant bequest from his estate. Colonel Corner, who served extensively throughout the British Empire and later the Commonwealth, was a dedicated supporter of the Society’s mission and values.
Born in Portsmouth in 1886, Corner was commissioned into the Hampshire Regiment in 1905. His distinguished military career took him to Malta, Bermuda, South Africa, Mauritius, India, Gallipoli, and Ireland. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the OBE in 1923. As a young Lieutenant, he also demonstrated a flair for the arts, serving as President of the Dramatic Club and taking an active role in theatrical productions.
Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1932, he led his Battalion to India. In 1934, he married Gertrude Evelyne Mary Blumer. Upon retirement, he settled in Bath, residing first at Eagle House and later at No. 6 Royal Crescent. Throughout his later years, he remained a committed and long-serving President of RCS Bath.
Colonel Corner’s legacy endures through the Colonel Corner Trust Fund. His generosity has empowered the Society to broaden its community outreach, particularly through youth engagement initiatives such as the Queen’s Green Canopy project, and the Art Prize in collaboration with 44AD Art Space. Our ongoing partnerships with Norland College, Bath Abbey, BRLSI, and both universities in Bath continue to reflect his vision—supporting Commonwealth students and celebrating the enduring global contribution of the Commonwealth.