March’s Branch Meeting was held at the Canary Social Club on 10 March 2020 with 34 members attending.
The usual formalities were observed with a minute’s silence for those that have crossed the bar, followed by reports from:
Chairman
- At our Branch Meeting on the 11 February, we had a presentation from Barry Leggett who gave a talk on ‘Policing in Norwich in the 60’s’. The Chairman thought this went down well with the members, so thanks to Barry and to Stuart for arranging. Other events since our last meeting were the breakfast club on the 16 February, many thanks to the 11 that turned up on the day. The whisky distillery tour at Roudham organised by our RM colleagues took place on the 23 February; commenting that 6 people attended. The Chairman understands that the newly updated tour is well worth going to if you get a chance.
- Commented that on Sunday Branch Members Steve Phillips, Gus Honeywood and himself gave the HMS Invincible Memorial stone a final clean up ahead of Saturday’s Memorial service at St Mary’s church Happisburgh. The moles had tried to do their best to deposit earth onto the stone but that was quickly removed, so it is ready for Saturday and our Secretary has the wreath which will be laid by a Branch Member on the day.
- Advised that S/M David Pye had agreed to take on the role of Fetes and Fayres Organiser and the relevant paraphernalia will be handed over later this evening.
- Reported that all our branch plaques are now displayed on this splendid board and stand over here, giving a massive BZ and many thanks to S/M Peter Dukes for his hard work constructing the board and stand. As a small thank you on behalf of the Committee and Branch; the Chairman presented Peter with a bottle of brandy for all his sterling work for the Branch over the past few months.
Secretary
- Drew everyone’s attention to an article in this month’s Semaphore; relating to the ROYAL NAVY PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION 2020 which may be worth a read by any photographers amongst us.
- Reported that currently 85 S/M’s have renewed and there are 5 people left to renew with 1 person resigning their membership in the last month.
- Advised all present that the Branch Photo will be taken at the May Branch Meeting.
Welfare Secretary
- The Welfare Officer began by drawing members attention to an announcement in the last copy of Semaphore regarding a new RNA initiative – the 1,000 good deeds a day Fund. The new fund will offer small grants on request to enhance quality of life, remove barriers to enable Shipmates to look after each other, for one off or extraordinary events. Examples given include: Covering the cost of transport to and from the train station to enable a Shipmate to attend an event, perhaps the Biennial or Remembrance parades in London. Repair costs as a result of a break-in or deliberate damage to property. Contributing to additional or unexpected costs relating to providing new and relevant services or historic events for Veterans. More details in the Semaphore.
- Closed by giving an update and current medical advice on corona virus.
Social Secretary
Forthcoming Events
14th Mar – HMS Invincible Memorial Service – 1200 – Happisburgh
11th Apr – NCFC Armed Forces Day – 1500 – Carrow Road – Armed Forces Day halftime pitch parade at the NCFC v Brighton. Details will be emailed to those affected.
18th Apr – Breakfast Club – 1000 – Venue TBC
16th May – Run Ashore – The Fat Cat
Any Other Business
S/M John Kett
- Thanked all for attending his Uncles funeral.
- Advised that the list for Trafalgar Night is now open, and the price has increased by £1 on the 2019 price. All payments are requested by the August Branch Meeting.
- Closed by confirming dates, time and venue for the Boat Trip.
S/M Steve Phillips
- Provided information on the Submariners Association Memorial that is being organised for placement at NMA. The design of the memorial is open to children and suggested that this information could be passed to any children or grandchildren. More details can be found at submarinememorial.uk
