Our first meeting of the year was a very interesting talk and slide show on red squirrel conservation by Richard Wales. He told us of the serious decline in the number of reds as grey squirrels can pass on squirrelpox to them. The South of Scotland is relatively grey squirrel free and Richard and two members of staff work hard to keep it that way.
Margaret Tooth of Blytheswood Care visited the Club in February to tell us of the work done by that organisation here and in Europe. As we had only heard of the shoebox appeal (over 1 million sent by 2008) it was good to learn of the Daniel Centre in Romania which has been running for 10 years and trains 12 teenage boys to be self sufficient. Blytheswood always work with an existing organisation in whichever country they start up and they supply international aid and disaster relief with funds raised through their 48 shops in this country.
A very successful Beetle Drive was held in March and the proceeds went to President Violet's chosen charity, Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.
Club members enjoyed a visit to Turnbull's of Hawick in April. This company was at one time well known for whisky blending and Mr Irving recently started the business up again. Whisky blending is still done but a delicatessen and bistro have been a very popular addition. After a talk and tour of the premises, members had a very enjoyable meal.
On one of the few sunny days that month, members did a charity walk to Clovenfords.
The highlight of the year was our 40th Anniversary Lunch. This was held on a glorious day at our usual venue of the Kingsknowes Hotel. President Violet welcomed guests who were piped in t the hotel. District Chairman Fiona Marwick, President Violet and the 3 founder members who were present then cut the Anniversary cake before lunch. Photographs of past birthdays were on display (now on this website) and guests enjoyed mingling in the gardens and chatting well into the afternoon.
In June, President Violet gave a report of her very busy year in office at the AGM. She and Vice President Gwen Croan had thoroughly enjoyed the Conference at Bournemouth and the Club had also been well represented at the District Rally and AGM. President Violet thanked everyone for their support before handing over the chain of office to Gwen.
back This ssection includes reports from previous years