South London Branch September 2015

On 16th August 2015 on board T. S. Trafalgar our Chairman, Shipmate Cyril Mabin, welcomed 17 members to our meeting.

Chairman's Report

The meeting began by paying The Silent Tribute to all members of Coastal Forces who had made the supreme sacrifice during the war and to all those of our number who had subsequently crossed the bar. Our Chairman thanked Alleyne Cook for bringing Mary and Reg to the meeting from Portsmouth. Reg no longer likes driving long distances because of problems with his eyesight following his cataract operation. Alleyne is hoping to move to Scotland in the near future to be near members of her family. Our Secretary reported that he had received a copy of the London Branch Newsletter and that he would make it available for all to peruse.

MTB 71

In the newsletter it was stated that the CFVA National Standard previously at Hornet was now laid up at the National Museum of the Royal Navy in the Dockyard at Portsmouth. At some point the CFVA archive is to be transferred to the NMRN. However, with regard to MTB 71, planning approval for the works at Priddy’ s Hard has been delayed because of a flooding risk and, consequently, that building would not be ready until at least 2017.

Treasurer's Report

Our Treasurer, Shipmate Cliff Coe, reported that branch funds [were healthy] at the time of the meeting.

Social Secretary's Report

Our Social Secretary, June Baker, informed us all that Charlie and Pearl of T.S. Trafalgar would be willing to put on a lunch in December but it would need to be on a Saturday because of Charlie's work commitments. June thanked all who gave prizes for the raffle which raised £61.

Merton Sea Cadets

The Merton Sea Cadets are holding a Trafalgar Day Dinner on 24th October to which all are invited at a cost of £27.50 per head.

Welfare Report

I am pleased to report that our illustrious former Secretary, Shipmate Ron Harrison, is in very good spirits and making the most of his time in the home in Wells where he can more easily see the members of his family. He sends his best wishes to you all. The meeting closed with a very good buffet provided by the Trafalgar for which many thanks. Our next meeting is to be held on 18th October 2015 and l hope to see you all there.
With all good wishes.
Grahame Berridge
Branch Secretary