Ribston Hall High School in the city of Gloucester was the venue for our 53rd AGM on Saturday 9th March. The blustery weather did not deter the stewards who were putting out balloons and signs directing people to the reception area. Well done, ladies!
The dining hall became the main meeting point and was soon buzzing with lively chatter. The school have their own catering staff, who were kept busy serving that first well-needed cuppa before preparing some tasty lunchtime meals for us to buy.
In the Dance Studio, Eileen Scott got the day’s activities off to a great start taking the first of two workouts and, after a short break, June Heath took the second one. This is the ideal event for SWKFA members to experience these two quite different styles. Thank you, Eileen and June.
The formalities of the AGM proceeded with the introduction of guests and this year our region was fortunate enough to welcome National KFA Chair, Lynne Dowdican. Apologies for absence included those from Ann Cutler and Janice Moore, both of whom could not attend due to health reasons. Reports were read, duly proposed and seconded. The SW Treasurer, John, presented his report and statement of accounts in a colour coded pie chart format, which is fast becoming his ‘trademark’. The Regional Committee remains unchanged, however Honorary Secretary, Maureen Powell, stood down after 5 years and was presented with a ‘Thank You’ gift of an Orchid. The region’s own Kay Slade Special
Award (The Swan Trophy) goes to a person for Outstanding Achievement and was presented to Pam Fewings, Plymouth Area. Certificates, marking 40 years of teaching, were presented to June Heath, Paddy Selway and Kate Ward. Lynne Dowdican then said a few words to us and an announcement for the next year’s AGM closed the proceedings…………but not quite! I was delighted to read out a citation for SW KFA Life Membership, which had been sworn to secrecy, for a well-deserved Angela Freeman.
The afternoon Showtime began with the arrival of The Right Worshipful Mayor of Gloucester, Councillor Mrs Joanne Brown, accompanied by her husband, Councillor David Brown. They were thrilled to be entertained by the nine excellently performed demonstrations and surprised to see the wide age range of the performers.
I am sure I speak for all KFA members everywhere by saying we certainly enjoy and get a lot of pleasure out this Association.
Barbara Noble, SWKFA Chair.