The first official part of the meeting was quickly dealt with and then it was time for lunch. As this was our first meeting after the Christmas break, we all seemed to have a lot to say to each other and there was a friendly atmosphere throughout the meal.
Following lunch, we were entertained with a medley of songs from the Compton Hospice Choir. Then, to our surprise, the conductor, Mrs. Whiting, head of music at Newbridge Preparatory School, ushered in a choir of prep. school girls who sang beautifully. First, they sang on their own and then joined in with the hospice choir. It was a particular delight, not only to hear their clear, young voices, but also to see the members' smiling faces; the children were loudly applauded as they left the hall.
I then thanked the hospice choir and presented them with a cheque for £400 as Compton Hospice was my chosen charity for my year of office and we had raised funds for them during the year. In turn, I was thanked by the conductor (for our donation) who mentioned that the choir had raised an amazing £2,500 for the hospice over the Christmas period.
It was then time to return to official business and I stepped down after 2 years in office and was presented with chocolates and flowers before installing Val Billings as chairman for 2018. Scilla Hudson also retired from her long held position as treasurer and was thanked for her services and also presented with chocolates and flowers. Jenifer Handley was elected as the new treasurer; all remaining members of the committee were re-elected.
With the end of formalities we are now looking forward to the coming year meeting and greeting both old and new friends.
If you'd like to join us (or know anyone else who might), do take a look at our What's On page for details of forthcoming talks and meetings.
