Chairman's View
It is with regret that my chairman's view begins with the sad news of the death of the Wessex areas PRO Sandra Ryan's husband Mick who passed away in February. Mick was a bundle of fun and a super walking companion and we send our condolences to the family.
The National AGM meeting was held at Parkfield rally site in Ripon from 29/4/10 to 4/5/10. 44 units arrived on site for this five day meet which was hosted by the Northern Area. Congratulations to chairman Tony Gledhill and the committee, their family and friends plus the other areas who assisted in stewarding and making this a very successful meet. It could not be faulted and the management of the site was perfect.
During the 5 day meet there was a total of 6 different walks, offering varying levels of ability, with some being as much as 12.5 miles long. These walks were all led by willing volunteers who came forward enabling the walkers to relax and admire the views. There is no requirement to provide leaders for walks so a big thank you to all those who volunteered.
I was very impressed with the number of members who took to the saddle and cycled across the lovely countryside. As you can see in the photograph many were keen to get out and about. It was also good to see our new pennants in the back ground.
The AGM was held on Saturday 1 May at the Royal Cricket Club Ripon, which was a short walking distance from the site. There was a good turn out of 67 members, albeit considering the membership as of 14th April stood at 697, with an increase of 44 from last year, it would have been nice to see more members offering support. We must be doing something right to increase the membership!
I am pleased to say we have a full committee. Andrew Wood, Hon Secretary stood down this year and I would like to take the opportunity to thank Andrew for all the hard work he has provided and the advice he has given over the past years in his various senior committee posts.
Colin Wild from the Peakland Area has been appointed as secretary and I would like to welcome Colin to this new post and wish him all the best for the next 3 years. I would also like to thank all who came forward to form the new committee and I look forward to working with you and hope to see you out & about.
The cost of printing & posting of your Activity Magazine has increased dramatically over the last year. A small sub group has been formed to look at reducing costs as the over spend cannot be sustained.
One of the proposals was to e-mail the Activity Magazine to members. If this is a preferred option for any of you please e-mail me and let me know.
Finally, Malcolm Turner, Treasurer, will be standing down at the end of the financial year. The Section needs to be proactively looking for a replacement now. At the September meeting the appointment of the new treasurer will need to be minuted in order to meet the 2nd November deadline for submission to HQ. If you are interested in becoming the new Treasurer please contact Colin Wild Secretary or my self directly. I cannot express this point strongly enough as without a Treasurer, there will be no Section or Areas.
Derek