Barking and District Historical Society

Barking and District Historical Society

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 2007/8

It was with great sadness that in April we learned of the death of Norman Gunby, one of the society's vice-presidents. Norman was a staunch supporter of the society and over a number of years quietly contributed substantial sums of money to the society. More recently we have received news of the death of long-time member Viola Parr.

In August, I represented the society at the first ever Dagenham Village Fayre organised by the Friends of Dagenham Churchyard. The Friends invited me to join the organising committee and I was delighted to attend.

On October 26th I was at Ingatestone Hall for the re-launch of Essex Journal hosted by Lord Petre. The following evening I attended the Dagenham Girl Pipers' reunion at the Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club.

Pat Manley very kindly arranged for the society to have a stall at the hugely successful Ilford Hospital Chapel Christmas Fair.

We took part in the annual EOLFHS History Fair at Eastbury School in January. My thanks go to Mary Blake, Tom White and Richard Chapman who were on hand to welcome visitors to this very popular event.

Along with our President Bill George, I attended the Bert Lockwood Memorial lecture at the Ilford Hospital Chapel in February.

Dorothy Lockwood represented the society at the memorial service for Bishop Jim Roxburgh at St. Margaret's Church, Barking in March.

I have continued to attend Forest Group and Essex Congress meetings (Dorothy Lockwood kindly stood in for me at the April meeting and presented our report).Chapman continues to keep our financial affairs in good order.

Richard Chapman continues to keep our financial affairs in good order.

Judith Harcombe has worked hard to keep records up-to-date as Membership Secretary.

I would like to thank June Johnson and her team of helpers for providing the refreshments at our meetings. The team made a profit again this year.

Mary Blake and Hilary Brunt continue to organise our bi-monthly raffles with great success. We have raised nearly £200 this year which helps to cover the cost of the hall and speakers. I would also like to thank to all those who donated prizes this season (keep 'em coming!)

Finally, I would like to thank Bill George for all his help and support throughout the year and for the creation of the monthly posters and editing our newsletter (which was highlighted in a recent edition of the British Association for Local History Newsletter).

John Blake
Chairman
May 2008

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