2002 Annual General Meeting Held at the United Reform Church, Croydon.

On the 6th of April on a bright but somewhat breezy day the 25th East Surrey AGM arrived in Croydon. The Society bookstall and research collection opened early ready for plenty of activity during the day. Around the venue were many stands, displays and posters. Some of the items were for quizzes, some were member’s entries in a competition and others were for general information on the Society together with archive material of interest to one and all. Unfortunately the first speaker had been in a car accident on the way to the meeting and detained in hospital, although thankfully not seriously injured. Our President, Paul Blake, stepped into the breach and his thought provoking discussions covered a wide range of issues including the purpose of Societies and the difficulties for them in a changing environment. There was keen participation from the audience including interesting and humorous recollections of the Society in its early days. Following this was an excellent buffet lunch which had been prepared by local Society members, the desserts were particularly irresistible. After lunch Michael Gandy gave a very entertaining but true talk called ‘It gets easier every day’. Sprinkled with tales and anecdotes his talk caused great amusement amongst the audience. The AGM followed and a comprehensive report will be published in the June edition of the ESFHS Journal. Fortunately a volunteer had come forward to fill the vacant post of Chairman, together with two new candidates filling other committee vacancies. One topic of discussion brought up in any other business was that of the White paper on Civil Registrations which could have an adverse affect for family historian’s research. (A link to the proposals has been posted on the front page of this website). After the meeting closed the winners of the various competitions were announced, and then Paul Blake, our President, cut our 25th anniversary celebration cake. This was duly cut into many delicious pieces and served up with a refreshing cup of tea.   A fine end to a memorable 25th Anniversary AGM.

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© 2002 East Surrey Family History Society
Registered Charity No. 286659.
Updated 16/12/02