IN his final duty as outgoing President, Jim Cox warmly welcomed our latest new member Francis Smith, at our annual general meeting on Thursday, February 26. He then formally handed the presidency - and chain of office - to Brian Melville. Jim said how much he had enjoyed his term of office and thanked colleagues for their support. He said he looked forward to seeing Brian wearing the magnificent chain of office.

Among the business discussed at the AGM was the election of the committee. It was agreed that Brian Melville should be President, Brian Ireland Vice President, Clive Allen Secretary, Bill Underwood Treasurer, Grenville Burrows Speaker’s Secretary, Cliff Blackborrow Assistant Secretary, Steve Swarbrick Elected member and Chris Donough Press Secretary.

Pat Sparrow and Dennis Wright jointly won the award for most attendances during the year – each achieving a remarkable 46 attendances out of a possible 47.

On Thursday, March 5, Paul Hickley will talk about operating the Vulcan Bomber, then on March 12, Cathy Jones will speak about the Isle of Man Roundabout, and on March 19, Sophie Dodds will present ‘From Silesia to Worcestershire’.

CHRIS DONOUGH