Speaker Andrew Civil

In the absence of Chris Wheatley, Albert Calvert acted as President.  There were two guests, Bob Dean and Stephen Mason.  The speaker at the meeting was Andrew Civil who is the Group Construction Manager for ALS UK. ALS is a firm providing Abnormal Load Services and members were given some understanding of the logistical issues involving the transportation of exceptional equipment in Europe and throughout the world. Essential route surveys, consultations with Local Authorities (perhaps organising the temporary dismantling of street furniture and power and telephone lines) and the Police (providing escorts) must occur before the means of transportation can be put into place. Members were given insights of the projects like Channel Tunnel Rail Link equipment, Tunnel Boring machines, Power Generators and all manner of large equipment moved over land and water from the site of manufacture to their ultimate destination.  Storage and packing is another feature of the company’s work here in the UK and in Holland and Germany.  Michael Weatherald gave the vote of thanks.  Publicity for the Wensleydale Wander of the 21^st. April was discussed.