December 2019 · Branch AGM

The branch’s 27th AGM was held on 18th December. Another successful year was reported, with 10 meetings and a coach trip to Chinnor and Princes Risborough and Didcot. The branch attended several exhibitions and manned a stand at Ramsgate Depot open day. Average attendance had decreased and was now in the low 20s. The branch was financially viable with just over £2,000 in the bank. Committee members re-elected were Keith Mapley, Chairman and Fixtures Secretary, Mike Woodward, Secretary, Dave Blackman, Exhibitions Officer and John Holloway, Treasurer. No other members were nominated or volunteered to join the committee.

After a break, with seasonal refreshments, branch member Ted Micklam presented a selection of digital photos. These were based mainly on informal trips with other members, taking advantage of the amazing deals available with advance tickets. Some of the views included Kings Cross, with retiring HSTs and the new Azumas, the Keighley and Worth Valley, the Severn Valley, Eurostar, Belgian coastal trams and the Nene Valley. There were also shots of our visit to Didcot. As well as the GWS preserved locos, photos included the bi-mode Class 800 series. These appeared to be working on diesel power through to Paddington, even though local electric trains terminating at Didcot were using the overhead.