Special
175th anniversary open committee
Programme
of visits and anniversary party planned.
Meeting
at the White Horse, Neatishead, on Wednesday, July 8.
Present
– Luke Paterson, chairman; Jonathan Deane, vice-chairman, Christopher Deane,
Tim Papworth, Alison Ritchie and Michael Pollitt, secretary/ treasurer.
Apologies
were received from the president, William Donald; Ken Leggett, John Purling,
Sally Stanton.
A
special planning meeting to mark the 175th anniversary was held. At
the previous evening’s farm walk, the chairman had repeated the invitation for
any members to attend the informal committee.
To
mark club’s formation in December 1841, it was suggested that a series of
events could be held straddling the formal anniversary in December 2016.
In
addition to the regular programme of winter meetings, already in place until
the March 2016 dinner, the secretary reported as follows
1
Stanford battle area tour – A provisional booking has been made for a later
afternoon visit for a maximum 50 in either June or July 2016 – starting at West
Tofts.
A
firm date could not be agreed until October 2015 when military requirements
were known.
After
discussion, it was suggested that a coach could run from Stalham to incorporate
a visit to a nearby farm before the Stanta tour.
2
Pasta Foods, Longwater, opposite the Norfolk showground. Dates flexible.
A
possible October 2016 early evening tour date was suggested.
3
Invitation by RNAA president, Robert Carter, to visit Letheringsett Old Hall to
see the gardens and hear about the farming business in spring 2016. A date to
be agreed.
4
Summer party – Jonathan Deane outlined a possible summer gathering next year –
probably drinks and canapés – following an invitation by long-standing member,
Peter Boardman at How Hill. This was unanimously supported.
JD
agreed to head a small working group to make arrangements and also secure
sponsorship. He hoped to confirm a date soon for what could be a charity
fund-raising event.
5
It was also agreed that the December 2016 meeting would include elements to
mark the actual 175th anniversary.
Further
discussion followed and Tim Papworth said that the club could look to support
an event to encourage teachers to learn more about the food and farming
industry. He also suggested that the club should consider producing a
polo-style shirt, which might appeal to more members.
175th
members’ survey. The secretary suggested inviting members to complete a 2016
return of the farming business – cropping plans etc – to be “sealed” for
opening in 25 years – 2041, the club’s 200th anniversary. This was
also supported.
There
was further support for other social activities including a cruise on the
Broads in 2017, and also a possible trip to Kettle Foods.
It
was also agreed to plan a revival of the inter-club clay shoot or even an
internal informal clay shoot for Stalham members.
There
was also backing for a possible tractor run/ vintage car/ machinery in 2017.
In
terms of the forthcoming programme for 2015/16, it was hoped to fix as many
dates as possible. Discussions would be held with Holt Farmers’ about holding
the annual inter-club bowls match away from the half-term holiday in late
February if possible.
Any
member, who has other ideas or would like to help, should contact the
secretary, chairman or vice chairman.