The AGM is always a good day for catching up with KFA buddies, browsing around the stalls, taking part in rallies and watching a variety of lovely demonstrations. This year was no exception, when, on Saturday 10th March, Somerset Area were the hosts at Court Field School in Wellington. Somerset committee members signed and sealed a good deal at this venue and, although the gym and the dining hall were in separate buildings, the crossings to and fro were well worth it to browse the stalls, especially the homemade luxury chocolates stall!
There were two sessions in the morning from Somerset teachers Monica Spalding and Helen Neal. The first one, taken by Monica, also involved the use of voices to outdo each other and the second session with Helen was a little different, being ‘Bollywood’ style.
Helen’s line of work had been in catering and she and her hard-working team ensured Guests and VIP’s were well looked after, including a superb lunch then afternoon tea when the Mayor and his wife were present.
This was my first AGM as Regional Chair and I was very nervous as I delivered my report, hoping not to have forgotten someone or something. As the formalities proceeded I relaxed a little, especially when it was time for presentations. There were two at this AGM, the first being for the latest South West teacher to receive recognition for having taught KFA classes for 40 years or more. I was delighted to present this teaching certificate to Maggi Waugh of South Devon.
The second presentation was for the recipient of the Kay Slade Special Award for outstanding contribution to South West KFA. Known as the ‘Swan’ trophy, it certainly was a pleasure for me to present it to Angela Freeman, our very hard-working RMLO and Assistant Treasurer.
Formalities over and we welcomed the Mayor, Gary James, and his Wife, Brigit (familiarly called Bea) to the afternoon demonstrations. Both are well known locally among people and KFA members as Bea attends a KFA class. We had heard very late the previous evening that, due to illness, the guest performers were unable to attend. However, and in true KFA style, it was decided to fill that slot with a seated audience participation item lead by June Billington. This was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, and especially the Mayor. The quality and variety of demonstrations was excellent with a couple of areas incorporating using chairs for the less mobile team members. Plymouth team members had purchased Alzheimer’s Society Blue Style T-Shirts and Logo Pins – the pins were securely fixed onto their demonstration outfits. It transpires that Jenny Poole, their Area PRO, takes photos at each Dress Rehearsal, sells them and donates the proceeds to charity.
Seemingly all too soon this AGM drew to a close with the final announcement that Gloucestershire Area will be the hosts for 2019.
Barbara Noble
Chair South West Keep Fit Association