Farewell

Sadly, this will be my last communication as chair of the club. At our Annual Outdoor Gathering in Lancaster I shall be stepping down after what has been an exciting and rewarding part of my life. It has been an honour and privilege to be your chair. The experience will remain with me for many years.

I would now like to offer my sincere thanks to members of the GOC board for their commitment, hard work and professionalism. They ensure the continued success of the club. At the same time, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all our group coordinators who work tirelessly on our behalf to produce an imaginative and varied programme of events.

A big ‘Thank You!’ should also go to all our walk and other event leaders. I am grateful to them for continuing to support the club, ensuring that our members have a packed programme of events.

AOG 2025, Lancaster

I am delighted and thrilled to see that so many of our members have signed up to attend this year’s AOG. Having looked at the programme of events, I think it should prove to be an exciting weekend for our members. I note that the programme includes no less than four gardens to visit, so I give a big shout‑out to Neil Barry for his behind the scenes work in this area.

In addition, there are cycle rides on both the Saturday and Sunday, walks along canals and along the coast, several walks in the lovely Forest of Bowland, a trek on Ingleborough, one of Yorkshire’s three peaks, two walks around historic Lancaster, and a ‘women only’ walk being led by Al. Those with a head for heights will not be disappointed while those who prefer something less challenging have also been accommodated.

Finally I offer a big ‘Thank You!’ to Dave Archer and David Harbottle for constructing such a varied and exciting programme, and to Chris Loy for dealing with all the bookings.

Well done! I can’t wait to see you all there!

Jim Cornwell, GOC Chair