Friday 5 April 2013

Devizes Branch


Well, we won the skittles match against Wilts and Berks, who organised a very enjoyable evening for the competition.  It will be our responsibility to arrange next year’s match.  We’ve now also been reminded that there is another match due – Bradford on Avon beat us a couple of years ago, so will be arranging a date to defend their title – more details to come.

The Annual General Meeting will be held at 6.30 on Saturday 4th May in the Canal Trust CafĂ© on Devizes Wharf.  Please come if you can.  It will be an opportunity to share what has been going on, and to hear the ideas of members.  We will be looking for a new Secretary as Val Noviss had to stand down last month.

The Cheese and Wine cruise will now follow the AGM. Details are in the updated Events Diary, available here.

Look out for our Grand Raffle.  1st prize is a week in a canal-side holiday cottage, and among others there are also a discounted canal boat holiday, meals in the Trust’s cafes, and the personal charter of Kenavon Venture for a party or a special event.  Tickets will be available in the Reception and Information area of the wharf building, or from committee members, and are a good way of all members contributing to an activity of the Branch. Please try and buy or sell a few!

Alan and Jean Smith have invited us to a Garden Party at their home in June, and the draw for the raffle will be held during the evening.

We have been invited to take part in the celebrations of Devizes Carnival this year. We will be organising an evening Carnival on the Canal event on Friday 30th August, with music and other attractions, with a Turkish BBQ and beer tent. If anyone would like to help with a float for the Carnival Procession the next day, please let us know.  

We are about to start an e-mail newsletter for Devizes Branch members.  If you do not receive it, it may mean your e-mail address on the Trust database is not up to date.  Please let the office know your current address.

Finally, please note Bank Holiday Monday May 6th in your diary.  Devizes Branch will have a stand in the Corn Exchange at the Lions May Fair, with a focus on recruitment and fund raising.  If you have canal-related books, memorabilia or small objects that could also be used as prizes, or sold on the stand, these would be very welcome. Raffle tickets will of course be available.  Come and have a chat and share your enthusiasm for the canal with others.


Paul Jakeman
Chairman, Devizes Branch