THE January meeting, held at the Fox at Stourton, was the AGM. That did not deter members from enjoy - ing a hearty lunch beforehand.

The past year, he said, had been very successful for the club.

Numbers had increased to 39, and as a result of the brilliant organising by programme secretary, not only had we had a succession of good speakers (averagely scoring 8.6 out of ten on the unofficial clapometer), but we had also enjoyed no less than seven trips with an average attend - ance of 34.

As a result of these events,finances had also improved substantially, as the treasurer, Allan Chappell, was able to point out.

The handing over of the chain of office, together with cross-presenta - tion of assorted ties, pins, and other paraphernalia, was accomplished without mishap, and new president David Young, assumed office.

As an ex-chairman of the Cookley- based Titan Steel Wheels, he was no stranger to leadership, and the members can look forward to anoth - er year of continued excellent fel - lowship.

We would like to increase member - ship to around 50, so any retired, or semi-retired gentleman in the Kinver or surrounding area who would like to join us for lunch on the third Wednesday of every month at the Fox, contact secretary David Giddings on 873646, or email david@ thegiddings.plus.com