The Golden Middle in eastern European universities is the time when students take stock of how far they have come in their studies and are acknowledged for their achievements , and given motivation for the remaining half of their time at university. The Golden Middle Ball held in the Younger Hall at the end of Freshers Week was aimed at new 3rd year students in particular and I was delighted to be asked by Vladimir Bliznyukov to be the keynote speaker and to be introduced by The Proctor, Professor Peter Clark. Tickets sold well and the organizers want this to be an 'instant tradition' so I hope that it is on the calendar next year.