THERE was a good turnout of over 30 for the AGM which was held in the Village Hall. The Treasurer, Shona Blazier, presented the audited accounts which were accepted as satisfactory by the members. The Chair, Jane Newkirk, in the absence of the Programme Secretary, Lynn Skinner, presented the programme planned for next year which has many appealing speakers arranged. The Outings Secretary, Barbara Shailer, summarised the varied outings including a visit to the BBC, Gloucester Docks and a cream tea on a canal trip in Stratford which had been enjoyed and well supported. The Chair also reported that funds raised over the year had been paid to the Caudwell Childrens Trust paying towards a new wheelchair for Antonia.

Following the official procedures a very entertaining illustrated talk on the work of the Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre whose base is in Beckford was given. Martin (General Manager) described how the Vale Hospital had started in the back garden of an ordinary house in the 1980s to the present day when they have purpose built premises with well equipped treatment rooms, x-ray facilities, animal specific rooms, cages and aviaries and a shop amongst other amenities. Many awards and plaudits have been gained by the Vale and their work is going from strength to strength with the help of lots of volunteers, fundraising and donations from the general public.

For more information about the Group please contact Barbara (Tel:870791) or Shona (Tel: 871193).

ALISON RUSHWORTH