Members of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Round Table gathered this week to look back at a busy year of activities for the group and choose new leaders for 2006.
More than 20 members gathered at the Battleborough Grange Hotel at Brent Knoll, near Burnham, on Tuesday night for the group’s annual general meeting.
Local estate agent Julian Frost retired from the Table at the event after 20 years in the group. He told members: “This has been a year I have been dreading. Round Table has filled up half of my life. The fellowship within this group is fantastic – I’ve had a brilliant time.”
Julian was thanked for his considerable involvement with the Table over the years and was made a lifetime honourary member by new incoming Chairman Steve Bird.
Tim Gibbs was handed the Endeavour Cup by ougoing chairman Nick Bashford (pictured right) for the person who has supported the Chairman the most this year.
Retiring chairman Nick Bashford also paid tribute to his members for their support during a “very busy and active year.”
New Chairman Steve Bird was elected by members, and Richard Williams was appointed Vice Chairman and re-appointed treasurer.
Steve, pictured below with Richard, said he was looking forward to the year ahead and also pledged to swim the Stert Island Swim this summer to raise further money for the Round Table’s charities.
David Sinclair, a local solicitor, was inducted as a new member, and Dave Ilsely became an honourary member.
The group’s accounts showed that it has raised thousands of pounds for local charities during the past year.
Those receiving donations included the Royal British Legion, the Burnham Hovercraft, Gateway Club, Burnham Scout Group, Highbridge Youth Club and the Girl Guides.
Other groups included the Friendship Circle, Avalon Camps, Arthritis Care, the BAY Centre, Air Training Corps, East Huntspill Pre-School and marathon runner Andy Clements.
The group has a large number of activities and events planned for 2006/7 to continue raising money for these and other local groups and organisations throughout the Burnham and Highbridge area.
