3 To conclude, In early October I was in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We have a new member there and I managed to welcome him aboard within a few days of his enrolling - the Chairman is always pleased to meet new members! I was cheered to hear that the RNA was organising their annual Trafalgar Dinner in the city and found the idea that the Immortal Memory would be drunk with mango juice so compelling that I had to mention it here. I am sure they had a wonderful evening in spite of the alcoholic restrictions, and I dare say Nelson, who had a flavour of the Arabian Peninsular from his visit to Basra, would be fascinated. It gives me much pleasure to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year. With kindest regards, Peter Peter Warwick Hon Chairman Welcome to this new feature of The Kedge Anchor. At the meeting in August, Council agreed that a brief report of its most recent proceedings should appear as a regular item. We believe in transparency and trust that this will allow members, as far as is possible within the constraints of the law, to follow Council proceedings. The following issues are ongoing, and appear on the agenda of most meetings: Projects Fundraising The Club website Educational development programme The selection of a new President Events In addition, publications, membership issues and regional groups are often discussed, and finance is usually an overriding consideration for most topics. The latest meeting on 25 October held at The Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, was exceptionally attended by the North American Secretary Randy Mafit, who was on a visit to the UK. Usually of course he has to send his apologies. The Chairman reported that he has been in touch with a good candidate for the Presidency of the Club. This person is considering the offer and will meet the Chairman soon to discuss this further. If the invitation is declined the Council has drawn up a shortlist of other names. Josephine Birtwhistle, who is responsible for the Club’s Website, was unable to attend the meeting, but submitted a full report on website developments, showing that there is much activity in this area. Dianne Smith, the Education Officer, was also unable to attend the meeting, but had also submitted a report. Short term plans for the provision of remodelled resources on the website are now due to be launched in January 2009, to be followed later by development of the concept with Year 9 students from Admiral Lord Nelson School, Portsmouth. On Projects, it was reported that with the completion of conservation work on the graves of Thomas Bladen Capel and Henry William Bayntun the Trafalgar Captains Memorial Project is now finished. It is planned to arrange rededication events in 2009. The Secretary reported that the initial research work on the Nile and Copenhagen Captains Memorial is nearly finished, and Council is now ready to seek the aid of members (see separate article in this edition). The Treasurer reported that more than usual has been spent on projects this year, so prudence is required. The Chairman described his ideas for a Fundraising forum in the near future, and various people were mentioned who could assist. The intention is to try and find a fundraising strategy that secures a steady income for projects in the future. Council discussed the success of recent Events, including the Collingwood Conference, the Nelson 250 celebrations in Norfolk, the Trafalgar Dinner at Newhouse, and the revamped Trafalgar Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at St Paul’s Cathedral. The Chairman recorded special thanks to Barry Coombs for his tremendously efficient hard work in helping to arrange the conference, Nelson 250 and Newhouse dinner. Exceptionally, the Club organised nine events in 2008, but next year will be less busy. Other issues discussed included constitutional reform, as requested at the 2008 AGM, and the organisation of Council meetings. It was agreed that the next Members’ Day and AGM will be held on 25 April 2009 (please put this in your diaries), and that the next two Council meetings will be held on 17 January and 16 May 2009. Finally, Council received with regret the news that David Harris and Barry Coombs will be standing down at the AGM as Treasurer and Events Officer respectively. So if any members wish to be considered for these posts, the Chairman, Peter Warwick will be delighted to hear from you! John Curtis Secretary NEWS FROM COUNCIL
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