The AGM was held on Tuesday 8 December at Burford House, after a very successful year.
Anne Breen, the senior editor, paid tribute to the memory of Liz Holliday as joint editor over the last 10 years. She then welcomed Sue Walker as Liz’s successor and Jenny Laurie in liaising with contributors. Anne thanked Tony Briselden for installing the newly purchased editorial equipment.
Graham McMellin circulated the annual accounts for the year ended 31 October 2009. This showed General Funds of £8,900 and the purchase of new computers at a cost of £1,560. Costs included a donation of £500 to St. Paul’s School Building Appeal. The accounts were signed and adopted by the meeting.
Peter Corbett submitted his Annual Management Report. He commented on the strong cash flow and that no bad debts had been incurred during the year. He thanked Anne for her help in preparing the Village Hall Centenary Insert. The budget for 2009/10 was adopted by the meeting.
Peter Waite referred to his report previously circulated. The loyalty discount introduced during the financial year just completed would be continued for a further 12 months. The concept here was to recognise those who had advertised with Chipperfield News for the past two years, and award them a 10% discount in these current difficult times. Meantime the postal distribution lists had been revamped so that the recipients would now have the option of paying a £10 charge annually for a postal service, or receive a free email service. Lucy Williams, who had helped in the past with postal distribution, was thanked by the Chairman.
Popsi Stokes gave her report for the year, and as usual, it involved various changes in members of the distribution team, some of whom retired after serving the cause and others joining in their place. The Chairman thanked Popsi for co-ordinating the distributors and passed on the Committee’s thanks to all concerned.
Richard Edwards had, as requested, conducted a succession plan discussion with all the committee. He reported all currently concerned were happy to continue in post for the next twelve months. This review would be undertaken annually. If any readers wish to volunteer in helping the cause with or without any specialised knowledge, they should telephone Richard Edwards as Chairman on 01923 262549. Richard thanked all members for their work during the year.