THE PROBUS CLUB OF KIDSGROVE
The NINTH Year – July 2004 – June 2005
In accordance with the Constitution the following were elected:-
| President | John Manley |
| Vice President | Michael Johnson |
| Honorary Secretary | Peter Davenport |
| Honorary Treasurer | Aubrey Lowndes |
| Speakers Secretary | Alan Henshall |
| Assistant Secretary | Michael Painter |
| Ordinary Members | Ken Barnett, Bill Booth, Derek Morris |
| Social Secretary’s (Joint) | John Manley, Maurice Colclough, Peter Lowe |
| Club Photographer | Peter Lowe |
| Bowls Organisers | Frank Timmis, Len Dale |
During the year, many activities of fellowship were enjoyed.
TALKS
An excellent series of speakers provided us with thought provoking talks, the subjects covered were: Community Wardens, Steam Trains & Traction Units, Falklands Holiday, Policing Canals, The Clough Hall, Drug Problem, The Himalayas, The Foxfield Railway, Bevan Boy’s & Beyond, N.H.S Road Show.
OUTINGS/HOLIDAY BREAKS
On 7th July, 38 members’ wives and friends enjoyed an outing to Chester which included a walk to the River Dee and a cruise of 2hrs on The Lady Diana looking at the wonderful scenery of The Duke of Westminster Estate.
On 8th September, a well supported trip was arranged to Southport. The shops, pier and gardens being enhanced by glorious sunshine, combined to give a highly enjoyable day out.
14th to 17th October saw a coach party of members, partners and friends taking a late autumn holiday break to Eastbourne where we stayed at The New Wilmington Hotel, which provided excellent accommodation and meals. During our stay, we took several coach trips out which included passing the 600ft high Wilmington Man carved out of the limestone hillside. We also visited the charming village of Alfriston with its most interesting church. The following day, we visited Hastings where some of us watched a contest of Town Criers and rode on The West Hill Cliff Railway. The outing continued on to Battle to look at the town, Abbey and where the 1066 battle raged returning via Pevensy Bay where William The Conqueror landed taking a last stop at Beachy Head to admire the view.
On 23rd November, a coach tour to Coventry included a tour around The Cathedral and Museum.
11th – 15th March saw a return holiday to Eastbourne, staying at The New Wilmington Hotel for 51 members, ladies and friends. The5 day holiday included a day out to Brighton, a day out to Rye and a visit to the local Rep; theatre. The holiday proved a great success.
Wednesday 4th May, saw a coach party of Members, ladies and friends visiting Evesham viewing the Almonry Museum and a boat trip on the River Avon was most enjoyable.
WALKS
During the year ten most interesting walks were arranged by Peter Lowe, ably assisted by Michael Painter, which were enjoyed by 199 persons. The walks varied from local canal walks to Tatton Park. The very wet weather we had in the late winter/early spring reduced the number of walks. These were thoroughly enjoyed by the persons who took part.
BOWLS
Our annual bowls competition versus The Rotary Clubs of Audley and Kidsgrove took place on 13th September resulting in a win for us. Fellowship being enjoyed afterwards at the Clough Hall Hotel.
Inter club members bowls competition have become a feature this year with three meetings being arranged at Crewe Leisure Centre, with Lunch at The Angel and one outdoor meeting at Clough Hall Bowling Club with lunch at The Clough Hall Hotel. These meetings/meals have proved most successful with members and guests.
MEMBERSHIP
During the year, we welcomed three new members: – Michael Nield, Graham Tunnicliff, and Ernie Beckett, and five associate members: – Chris Brough, Gordon Griffin, Jeff Parker and Trevor Proudman. We wish them a long and happy fellowship in the club.
DEATHS
It is most sad to record the loss of founder members Douglas Whiston and member Len Washington during the year.
OTHER EVENTS
On 14th November over 2o members attended the annual Remembrance Service at St Thomas Church with John Podmore proudly laying a wreath on our behalf.
On 15th December, members and ladies attended the annual Christmas Lunch at The Rifleman Inn.
On Thursday 12th May, our Presidents Evening took place at Alsager Golf & Country Club, where we all enjoyed the meal and entertainment – Simply Magic, David Oakley. Again a truly successful evening.
PRESIDENTS REMARKS
President’s John’s thoughts about this year:-
This year has demonstrated the previously hidden talents of the members who stepped in to support the council, and also showed how the memberships so avidly support our clubs activities.
It has been a busy and eventful year, and I have to thank all that helped me throughout. My best wishes go to Michael and I am sure you will give him your support.