There was an attendance of 125 at the centre’s AGM, held at Blakedown Parish Rooms on February 10.

The President David Brown, chaired the meeting. He welcomed everyone present and congratulated the chairman, Chris Fonteyn on his award of an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list.

In his annual report, Chris Fonteyn reviewed the centre’s year. It had been another solid and steady period of progress, success and financial strength. He gave thanks to the officers and committee for their support and commitment, a first rate team whose quality, skills and experience are invaluable.

Efforts to promote and increase membership have been successful and we now have over 300 members. An elm tree has been planted in the park at Hanbury Hall to mark the centre’s 30th birthday.

The treasurer Alan Beaumont, presented his report which confirmed a very satisfactory state of affairs. During the year, the centre had made donations totalling £7100.

All the officers and members of the committee having then only proposed and recorded were re elected. Two National Trust staff members from Hanbury Hall, Christian Walker (general manager) and Neil Cook (head gardener there for 27 years), gave a presentation on the recent development at the property.

Eric Greenwood then gave an illustrated presentation on places to be visited by the centre in 2015.

Details of the activities of this local group of National Trust members can be obtained from the centre’s membership secretary Roy Fox on 01562 886728.