CHRISTCHURCH

2007 has been a year of many changes within the Christchurch Branch although the tried and tested format for our weekly meeting remains unchanged and continues most successfully.

In 2006 Margaret Whiting, then Chair, announced her intention to resign in 2007 and at the AGM in June, the Vice-Chair, and May Haggett also resigned. The club wishes to record its thanks to both Margaret and May for the many years of service they gave to the club and for their offers of help in the future, as and when it may be needed. The indefatigable Sue Shlackman was elected as our new Chair and incorporates into this appointment the roles of the Organiser, Secretary and Membership Secretary! Recently Sue welcomed the offer of some secretarial help from member Gill Aslett. The club remains hugely indebted to Sue and very mindful of all that she continues to do on its behalf. Thanks also goes to Les Denmead who continues as Treasurer. Les attends every meeting, helping in so many ways far beyond the duties of looking after the Club's finances. The new Vice-Chair is club member Rosemary Pople.

Active membership and that of helpers have both declined during the year. We have welcomed some new members but have 'lost' those whose health has deteriorated to an extent where they can no longer attend meetings. With great sadness we record the death in July, of one of our long-standing members, Win Delaney. Circumstances have limited this year¹s programme. Nevertheless we did hold an Open Coffee Morning in July when the Dorset Trefoil Guild Choir entertained everyone and the event was a big success.

In September we had a coach outing with lunch at 'The Swans', Verwood. The report has been written ahead of the Christmas festivities but again this year we anticipate and look forward to attending the Association's Carol Service in Parkstone and will also hold our own Christmas Party, to which we invite the Mayor of Christchurch. We hope to welcome the St George's Christchurch Bell Ringers for another of their delightfully entertained medley of carols and we shall have our Christmas lunch at the New Queen.

We extend our thanks to all at the Association's Head Office together with our sincere good wishes to them and to all fellow DAD members in the many other clubs throughout the county.