Reference to my usually prolific meeting notes became a shocking realisation that the ‘demob’ feeling started too early; readers may take some relief in knowing that this, my final edition, will be shorter than it would otherwise have been.

The Ladies BBQ at Pittywood Farm, kindly permitted by Sue and David, went well despite the slightly cool night. Simon, Chris and Elizabeth provided the hot food and supplied the wine.

Good work SVP Ian for drawing together the arrangements for the Summer Ball which despite its predictable format is still a joy to attend. I was quite surprised to find Ivan Ball sitting in amongst the Brookside Jazz Band. You may be aware Ivan is a bandleader in his own right.

Our Malawian friend, Clement Maliro, visited again and spoke to us of his not inconsiderable responsibilities in his community’s health care provision. Here’s hoping his Masters at Birmingham will advance his abilities to the benefit of those he chooses to serve.

It was delightful to welcome Eleanor Hopwood, George’s solicitor, who spoke to us about her work in the family law courts. Her approach is defined by a non-confrontational style which she believes gets better results than the other option.

On the same night we were visited by our last Young Speaker winners, Miles Curtis and Oliver Smith accompanied by Dad and Mum respectively. Miles spoke with clarity and passion about ‘Help for Heroes’ which earned him an invite to our meeting on 8^th July. ‘Ollie’ gave a most professional delivery about enlivening an interest in politics amongst young people. Members listened intently and the questions and comments that followed underlined broad appreciation by members.

 My ‘At Home’ was blessed with perfect weather, 47 attendees with ample food and drink. The planning and most of the execution of preparation of food was thanks to Mairead, who despite mobility issues still actually enjoys doing such things.

We were so pleased to see Lucy and Christopher (Clemson) especially as Lucy is quite well at the moment; also welcomed was Rob’s Mum who is still coming to terms venturing out after their recent bereavement. I must clearly say a real thank you to everyone who brought gifts on the day because things happened at such a pace, I now can’t put names to all gifts. Also, not forgetting my daughter Karen and niece Vikki who served and waited upon us impeccably and son-in-law Mark who did much preparatory work. My grand-daughter Anna didn’t do much except made some guests smile and feel a little broody.

Volunteer workers on the Aquabox project were invited to Waltham House on the following Tuesday for an Aquafilter information session and thank you buffet evening. Messrs Haspel, Rawson, Milward and Meilke-Janney spoke to the assembly with the concept and planning done by John Buckley

My last ‘normal’ meeting was made special by the attendance of our speaker Jeff Aldrich who enthralled us speaking on his job. Jeff is Vice President of Greenpark Energy Ltd., who are engaged in methane recovery from coal seams. Members were so engaged by the presentation that the question time lasted almost as long as the presentation. Importantly, Jeff has indicated he wishes to join us and will attend a couple more meetings so we can get to know each other even better.

Finally can I thank the Club for allowing me to be President for a year and for the considerable support I have been given. I have enjoyed the experience believing as I do that all situations, good and not so good, offer the opportunity for learning. I hope you will support Ian in his year and I wish him all success.