I hope that you have all had an enjoyable summer and are now fully refreshed and looking forward to the autumn programme of activities.
Over the past few months further progress has been made with the refurbishment of the Headquarters.  The biggest job that has been completed has been the overhaul and resealing of the floor in the main hall.  This had become extremely worn, but was completely stripped and resealed over a weekend thanks to the efforts of Tony, Trev, Matthew and Neil.
Further painting has also been carried out in the entrance hall and the main hall, although both rooms require finishing off.  Hopefully by the time you are reading this we will have carried out further improvements at the work party on Sunday 21 September, and moved a step closer to having a Headquarters to be proud of.
The roof renewal project is moving along very well, with Mary having secured £7000 in funding towards the cost.  An application has been submitted to the Coalfield Regeneration Trust asking for a contribution towards the project, and if successful we can move ahead and have the entire roof replaced early in the New Year.
We have planned a social evening for 18 October and a sponsored cycle ride for 23 November; it would be nice to see as many people attending both events, as it gives us an opportunity to talk face-to-face with both members and parents.  The emphasis for the social evening is simply to have a good night at very little cost; there will be a variety of quizzes and games to take part in, and we look forward to seeing you there.

Peter Rowley