Leonard Stanley Wine Circle's AGM

IT WAS the AGM – how time flies as it doesn’t seem it was year ago since the last one.

The village hall was literally full of members, plus two new ones – Adrian and Jane Roberts who were welcomed by our Chairman, Eric.

We started a little later than our usual time but it made no difference and we nearly had a full compliment of members for our AGM.

Business was kept short and after the 2018 Minutes were read by Secretary Chris and approved, it was on to the Financial report by Treasurer Sue who was pleased to announce that we are solvent, despite the average speaker costing around £50.

She reminded members that subs are now due.

The Chairman gave his report after thanking Chris, Sue, Julia and Margaret for their input during the last year and particularly to Trevor who collects the keys and puts tables and chairs up prior to meetings.

In appreciation he was presented with a nice bottle of wine.

We had a good varied programme throughout the year and for a change instead of having our Christmas meal in the hall, we went to The George at Frocester which was a success.

So much, that we are returning again this year on December 19, at a cost of £20 per head – this to be paid no later than November meeting.

The Burns night was as always very popular and the Garden Party in June held at the home of Graham and Sue Jones was much enjoyed in beautiful surroundings and weather.

Our summer outing to Chavenage House was a huge success and will be a hard act to follow in 2019.

Our thinking hats are already on!

Eric will remain as Chairman for one more year with Phil Bischler being his Vice Chairman.

Sue will stay on as Treasurer for another year with Sue Jones working alongside of her, eventually taking over as Treasurer at the next AGM.

Chris will remain as Secretary with Julia and Margaret continuing compiling the programme.

Then we moved on to celebrate the Wine Circle’s 50th year anniversary almost to the date which was October 30, 1968, with Eric welcoming past members Edwina Harris, Noel and Brenda Baker and Monica Cook whose parents lived at The Cedars and were founder members.

We all toasted the Club and past members with the aid of a glass of Prosecco and a slice of a beautifully decorated cake, followed by a very appetizing supper.

It is so gratifying to see a club which continues to flourish and has such a good community spirit.

The next meeting is on November 20, when Sue Prentice will talk on ’Dame and Diva Cabaret’.

If anyone would like to join the Wine Circle – please come along and see if it is for you – we are a friendly bunch. It’s always the last Wednesday evening in the month at 7.30pm in Leonard Stanley Village Hall.

Chris Phillips

Secretary