AGM + Buffet with a Social Evening
Committee

43 Group members attended the AGM and heard Gerry Studd (Group Leader), Jane Overall(Treasurer), Chris Lamb (Deputy Leader) and Ernie Allen (Coach Trips) all giving positive reports. Membership had stabilised, finances were healthy enabling £300.00 to be donated to the RSPB and attendance at  both indoor and outdoor meetings had been good. Unfortunately, Chris Lamb was unable to continue on the Committee, but Ken and Sheila Cottam, Brian Reeve and John Shelton were elected to serve.  After the business meeting, a short non-paper ornithological bird quiz was followed by a buffet enabling members to meet and chat informally.

An Australian Spring                                                      Ray Reedman

Ray kindly substituted for Bob Scott who was unfortunately indisposed. Ray described two journeys that he had made to Australia in springtime, one to the south east and the other to the north of the continent.  We were shown a great range of wildlife, but concentrating on the wonderful birds of the regions. Ray used his own photographs (with assistance from Ruth Angus) to illustrate a very professional and interesting digital presentation.  An evening enjoyed by all who attended. 

Autumn in the Scillies                                                  Terry Bond  

The speaker revealed that he had visited the Scilly Ilses some 35 times and obviously knew the terrain, birds and particularly, the customs and habits of the birdwatchers very well. Terry reviewed the geography of the Islands and introduced us to the common birds, many important vagrants and indicated, also, the mainland birds which are not seen.  A worrying feature, however, was the rising cost of a trip to the Scillies including transport to and between the Islands, food and accommodation.  With the flower and bulb trade under pressure and the helicopter service not making money, the Islands face an uncertain future.  An amusing and informative evening. 

Hebridean Journey                                                  Gordon Langsbury

We were taken on a wildlife tour of the Western Isles from Islay to South Uist by Gordon based on some 35 visits over many years.  The packed audience were enthralled with superb photographs accompanied by amusing and knowledgeable reminiscences. An excellent advertisement for a visit to the Hebrides.

The Natural Quarry                                           David Boag

David was surprised to be given a commission by the owner of a working quarry to photograph the developing wildlife on the site over a year.  It was only when he observed closely that he realised that many creatures and plants preferred the workings to the surrounding countryside!  Professional images were used to enhance a unique and enthusiastic delivery.  A very interesting evening.

A Kenyan Safari                                                            Mike Read

Mike has been a professional wildlife photographer for many years and this presentation showed his obvious love of the natural world.  We journeyed through the National parks and reserves of Kenya and were shown not only images of the expected big game but also the incredible variety of local birds as well as migrants.  Those attending this meeting would definitely add Kenya to their 'must visit' list.

Have Wings, Will Travel                                         Dominic Couzens

Dominic made a welcome return to the group to enable us to hear his presentation on the wonders of bird migration. He explained the different types of migration and why birds need to travel very long distances. The role of the sun, stars and the Earth's magnetic fields was covered. He did not forget, however, that the birdwatcher would want to know where to see migrating birds, the impact of weather and where a bird has come from or is going to.  An enthralling evening delivered with Dominic's inimitable and humorous style.

AGM + Buffet with a Social Evening
Committee

37 Group members attended the AGM and heard Gerry Studd (Group Leader), Jane Overall(Treasurer) and Chris Lamb (Deputy Leader) all giving positive reports. Membership had increased, finances were healthy enabling £1000.00 to be donated to the RSPB and attendance at  both indoor and outdoor meetings had increased.  After the business meeting, a short non-paper ornithological bird quiz was followed by a buffet enabling members to meet and chat informally.

Spring Birdwatching in Lesvos
Andrew Cleave MBE

Before Andrew started his programmed talk, he explained that the Bramley Frith Environmental Centre has now been closed due to development by the National Grid.  This will, sadly, result in the destruction of extremely valuable ancient woodland.  Andrew then went on to give an excellent presentation on the Greek island of Lesvos, which brought back good memories to the many group members who had visited this top birding venue.  We were taken to the ‘hot spots’ of the island and shown the many migrants that visit as well as the resident birds. Andrew is a very knowledgeable speaker with an amiable style leading to an enjoyable evening for his audience. 

Scotland - The Wilderness On Your Doorstep
Ian Rowlands

Despite other attractions, Ian gave his presentation to a full house. It quickly came apparent that Ian had a deep love of wildlife which quickly enthused his audience. We were taken to Speyside in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and introduced to Pine Martens, Scottish Wildcats and birds such as Capercaillie, Gold