News

“I joined the Retirement Fellowship because I am a retired employee of the NHS in Darlington and have bought a house in Harrogate, hoping to re-locate in the future. I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to meet some friends before my move. Members of Harrogate Branch have made me feel very welcome. I also joined the walking group which I thoroughly enjoy, and the monthly meetings which are most entertaining.”

We decided to have a change of venue for our Annual Social this year and Ripley Castle and Gardens was chosen; the Castle is close to Harrogate and is very accessible by car and bus.
Forty-four of our members and their friends joined the party and the weather was good apart from an occasional shower. We were split into two groups, one of which went on a guided tour of the castle whilst the remainder enjoyed a visit to the gardens. Later the two groups changed places.
The tour of the castle was extremely interesting and our guide very knowledgeable.

From 1355 to the present day, twenty six generations of the same family have lived in the castle. Portraits of the Ingilby’s span the years, the most recent of which was of Sir Thomas and Lady Emma’s children which was painted for the Millennium.
The gardens are very colourful and the lake enhances the setting. We then met again in the Castle Tearooms where we all enjoyed a Ripley Cream Tea.

Gillian Oldfield

Thirty seven members from branches around Yorkshire attended the meeting which was opened by Jean Briggs, the Chairman, who welcomed everyone including two guests one of whom was Anthea Graham, the National Development Officer for England.
In her Chairman’s report Jean Briggs, who is standing down this year, said how much she had enjoyed her three years in office and she thanked her committee for all their help and support.
Gillian Oldfield, the Regional Representative, reported on her busy and enjoyable year attending all the National Council Meetings, visiting several branches in the Yorkshire Region and attending the National Conference at Lowestoft.
The Treasurer’s Report was presented by Margaret Bird and the Financial Statement was circulated.

The reports from the branches demonstrated what a busy and fun-loving lot we are - in fact one branch had enjoyed a flutter at Ripon Races!!
The service at Westminster Abbey to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the NHS, and the Training Day held in Edinburgh entitled “Contributing to the success of your branch” were reported on by members.
The election of officers proceeded with the re-election of Olga Spavin, Margaret Bird and Gillian Oldfield to their respective posts. Jean Briggs handed over to the new Chairman, Mary Edwards from Northallerton.

The meeting concluded with the presentation of a gift to Jean with thanks for all her hard work.
An excellent buffet lunch was enjoyed by all, organised once again by Gillian Oldfield. Many thanks, Gillian.
The next meeting will be held on the 26th August 2009.
Sheila Jones