Cardiff’s 80s alumni reunite for an unforgettable night

Hundreds of former UWIST, UCC and University of Wales College of Medicine students returned to Park Place for 80s Re-Fresher Night: Part II.

Cardiff alumni from the 1980s proved they’ve still got the moves, the memories, and more importantly the stamina, as they took over Cardiff Students’ Union for one epic night of nostalgia.

From surprise reunions with friends not seen in decades, to swapping legendary “back in the day” stories, to dancing to non-stop 80s anthems, the night was a perfect mix of fun, friendship, and flashbacks. Live music and sets from original SU DJs David Walker (BSc 1986) and Phil Hope (BSc 1985) kept the dance floor packed all night long.

Sanjiv Vedi (BSc 1984), 80s Reunion Planning Committee Chair said: “It was an amazing evening with great music from the ‘Kicks’ and our original 80s SU DJs David Walker (BSc 1987) and Phil Hope (BScEcon 1985), late into to the Cardiff night. So many of the alumni who came along said how good it was be reunited with lost friends. It’s a great precursor to the Big Reunion Weekend in July 2026. Keep the dates free and I'll see you there!

"Finally, I just want to thank the other alumni volunteers on the planning committee who helped make this a success, including Harish Patel (BSc 1988), Peter Richardson (BPharm 1988, PgDip 2025), Pat Younge (BSc 1987), Graham Collier (BSc 1985), David Walker (BSc 1987), Sian Roberts (BPharm 1985, MBA 1991), Jennifer Watts (BA 1985), and Claire Price (BA 1987).”

Relive the night

See official photos from the night.

Join the 1980s Alumni Facebook group to reconnect, see the pictures, and keep the conversation going. Find out more about other alumni online communities and groups.

What’s next?

Missed out this time or simply want more? Plans are already underway for Cardiff’s first ever Big Reunion Weekend in 2026, bringing together alumni from across the decades for a weekend-long celebration. Find out more.