Chairman's View
I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce my self. I am Derek Gardner and I am your new chairman. It is a great privilege to have taken over this role and yes you have another Scotsman at the helm. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Peter Brotherson for his 5 years of service, Peter should be congratulated for the advice & guidance he has given to many over the past years and I hope Peter moves on to other things within the Club and hope to see him out & about at the various meetings.
The National AGM was held at Darley Dale from 30/4/09 to 5/5/09. This five day meet was hosted by the Peakland Group and I have to congratulate chairperson Margaret Heeley and the committee plus their family and friends for running this first class meet. It could not be faulted the management of the site was perfect.
During the 5 day meet there was a total of 13 different walks, an average of three walks per day ranging from 4 miles to 12.5 miles. These walks were all supported by leaders enabling the walkers to relax and admire the views. It should be noted that there is no requirement to provide leaders for walks so a big thank you to all the leaders for volunteering to do this.
The AGM was held on Saturday 2nd May at the Memorial Hall, a short walking distance from the site. There was a good turn out of 105 members albeit there could have been more considering the membership as of 14th April stood at 661, with an increase of 49 from last year. We must be doing something right to increase the membership!
The only down side to the meet was that vandals came on site and stole some solar lights but worst of all they stole the Scottish Group pennon and set fire to it. This was very disappointing albeit out of bad comes good as the National Section Council have agreed to fund the purchase of a new pennon which will have the new re-designed club logo.
Finally can I thank all who have come forward to form the new committee and I look forward to working with you and hope to see you out & about.
Derek