GEOFF Yeangle, chairman of Cheriton Fitzpaine Twinning Association, welcomed 15 members to the Annual Meeting held in the Parish Hall and announced that Bonnebosq members wished their village to continue as before.

However, as the French no longer get funding grants for Twinning visits, the format would be changed with more small groups getting together for outings on a more leisurely basis and not on day-long coach trips.

Cheriton members agreed that this is a good idea, as this would give them more time to relax with their hosts.

Secretary Will Taylor has resigned as he and his wife will be moving shortly but he said that it had been a successful time with not only their visit to Bonnebosq, which had been most enjoyable, but other social events as well, including quiz nights and lunches.

Michael de Sancha gave the treasurers report and collected subs for the coming year.

Geoff Yeandle thanked Will Taylor for taking over the job as temporary secretary last year, and everyone agreed he had done a wonderful job.

He thanked everyone for their support and help during the past year and said he was willing to stand as chairman for a further year and was re-elected.

New joint secretaries are Brenda Fowler and Margaret Tucker. Michael de Sancha was unanimously voted to continue as treasurer. Brenda Fowler is president and Jan Ashby-Crane is cice president.

Discussions were held on their proposed entry in the Cheriton Fitzpaine Carnival and ideas were raised for fundraising events during the year which included a French-style Bistro which had always been a popular event.

After the meeting was formally closed, members enjoyed wine and nibbles. New members are always welcome.

Margaret Tucker