Spring Over Fifties Festival

Mr Peter Kemp attended this years "Spring Over Fifties Festival" on behalf of the branch held at the Corn Exchange.

Peter as welfare officer is best place to attend as many of the questions asked relate to such matters.

Normally Peter would have been accompanied but all reserves were busy that day, but he still did a grand job.

Peter now intends to attend the equivalent Festival in Milton Keynes, so if anyone is available to help please get in touch with the Club.

RAF Police Parade

Both Branch and Branch Club members took the opportunity to support the RAF Police Homecoming March on the 22nd of May which took place in Bedford Town centre.

The Branch was pleased to be able to offer funds to support the Branch Club's efforts to help veterans and families by laying on a reception within the Branch Club.

The Chairman attended both the parade and in greeting guests visiting the club, and wishes to extends his thanks to all who assisted in making everyone welcome.

Eastbourne Conference 2011

Your Branch Chairman attended the annual conference at Eastbourne on the 14/15th May on behalf of the branch.

As a Delegate he carried the votes of 317 members.

A brief report is available on the notice board at the Branch Club and a full report available via the chairman Lez Fishman.

Area Conference 2011

Your Chairman Lez Fishman, once again attended the area conference at Potters in Hopton On Sea, collecting Bedford's second award for collecting in excess of £10k. The opportunity was taken to talk to many and network with those at HQ.

Accommodation was in chalets and no one had to walk far for anything, food (excellent), entertainment which one has to say was a real bonus, including the Wyton Band.

As always the presentations were very informative, firstly by the CO RAF Benson, this was followed by a presentation on Alzheimer's. Chris Osborne, Blades Project Manager then gave a presentation on the Blades and finishing off Jane Easton spent a short time reflecting on her first six months in the post of Secretary General.

Resolutions were discussed, and as always was followed by a parade and service on the Sunday morning. Further information on the conference can be found on the branch notice board in the branch building.

Branch AGM 2011

On Sunday 20th March 2011 the Branch held its annual AGM in the Cardington Lounge, instead of the usual Wednesday evening. Whilst the turnout was improved the numbers were still disappointing, especially in relation to branch members.

The Chairman Lez Fishman gave much thanks to all committee members of both committees, plus members who supported the branch club throughout the year. Finances remain reasonable considering the investment over the year. With a number of vacancies not filled the branch needs a wake-up call, not only now, but for the future and all must play their part. Wings Coordinator post unfilled, Treasurers post only just filled and by an associate member, no Vice Chairman, no one in the wings to help should we lose another officer.

A full report is shortly to be posted on the branch club notice board. In the absence of Graeme Fordham, our president, ex-president Eric Dawson gave a short address thanking everyone for their efforts throughout the year.