I want to start by thanking all those who came to the A.G.M, whether they were at the lunch or not.  I spoke to a new member later that day who commented on the friendly atmosphere there.  I think the Anniversary lunch was a great success and I want to thank everyone who helped in any way-too many to be named individually.  Ann Gee organised it for us and deserves a special thank you.  Judith Broadgate was involved in all the decisions and was a tower of strength on the day as she always has been during her term as Chairman.  We shall miss you Judith.. 

   All the committee and spouses worked hard to get the hall ready in time, serve food and clear up afterwards.  A team of members brought home made cakes.  Another group of members were literally back stage preparing for the trailer video at the end of the A.G.M. prepared by Roger Browne.  This, together with the display from the archives arranged by Paddy Cooper, gave us all a feel for the past twenty years. The Jazz Band was much appreciated and my thanks go to the members. They make me wish that I played an instrument and could join in.   

So much for the past, now for the future.  We have two new members on the committee.  Alan English has taken over Group Liaison from me and may I thank all the Convenors for their cooperation in the last two years.  Caroline Browne will assist Margaret Wentworth as Membership Secretary.   Margaret has already taken over this post, as Marjorie Frost had to resign for medical reasons.  All the committee would like to thank Marjorie for all her hard work and wish her well for the future.

  Unfortunately Peter Vermeylen is having to stand down for health reasons.  Our thanks to him for his efficient reorganisation of the Equipment Record and our best wishes for the future. We hope to fill this vacancy soon.  The other members of the committee, Kate Carpenter, Catherine Bowater, Jackie Edington and Louis Moss stay as before with Jackie becoming my Vice Chairman. I know I can rely on their cooperation and expertise.  Peter Graham has been co-opted again.  He and Roger Bowerman continue to produce the Newsletter and we are all indebted to them for this. Our thanks go to Trevor Coe who continues as Website Co-ordinator.

I look forward to an exciting year as we start the next twenty. I want to visit the groups I know little about during the year, if you will have me, meeting as many members as possible (but don’t expect me to remember names!).  Good luck everyone for the future.

                                                                                                     Margaret Bultitude