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Chairman's Review - January 2010 The turn of the year has been rather more demanding than we had anticipated , due not only to the exceptionally severe weather on each side of the holiday period ,but also The Club’s Officers and Committee have been unexpectedly busy , seeking a new home . Over recent months we have become increasingly concerned over the obvious management problems at our usual lunch and coffee morning venue. The standards of hygiene and cleanliness had deteriorated alarmingly and on several occasions, we had difficulty over access on booked dates . After a meeting in early December with representatives of the management , the Club’s Officers decided that we must urgently seek an alternative venue . Several possibilities were rapidly investigated but most posed problems and eventually, just before Christmas , it was decided that there was no option but to transfer our 2010 programme to Ashwell House where ,for some years ,we have held our Christmas Luncheon . Some changes have been necessary of course and , though we shall have the same catering team , our lunches will have to cost slightly more . Looking back over a busy autumn programme of events , all seemed to go well , with the exception of the raining off of one of the rambles which was about to become a swim . From the response of many members , it appears that the Christmas Lunch arrangements hit the right note and particular thanks are due to John Parkes , Peter Fletcher and Tony Woodhouse , who did the work behind the scenes . A special mention,too,for Ryland Clendon ,our own Poet Laureate. Peter Fells and his subcommittee are putting together a full spring schedule of events and Michael Welling is recruiting our lunchtime speakers for the year . I look forward to welcoming you to Ashwell House . The environment may be new but the Probus friends and fellowship remain the same! A very happy 2010 to you all With best wishes, Colin Smart |