DISTRICT 8 CHAIRMAN 2021-22 - Coral Campbell

Dear Friends,

I have been your District Chairman now for 5 months, so what have I been doing in that time. I have been busy!

We have had 3 District Events which gave members opportunities to meet together again face-to-face. The COA in August was our first meeting together after nearly 2 years of Covid restrictions. It was wonderful to see members delighted to see each other again and renewing friendships.

The highlight of my year so far must be our Rally held on the 20th October at Briarfields Hotel, Titchwell, Norfolk. It gave me great pleasure to welcome everyone to my beautiful north Norfolk coast. The Rally was well-attended with most clubs being represented. The venue was excellent providing us with good food and service. Our guests included District 24's Chairman , Alison Monk, and District 19's Chairman, Kath Brown. Our guest of honour was Association President, Betty Roberts who addressed us. Again, it was our first Rally for 2 years. On the day after the Rally, my club of Hunstanton and District, organised a 3 mile coastal walk in aid of President Betty's Charity, The Stroke Association. Everyone dressed in pink or purple - quite a colourful sight!

Our 3rd opportunity to meet was at the DCM held at Diss on 24th November. Again, well- attended. As well as completing our District business, we observed a minute silence to remember and give thanks for the devoted service and loyalty to IW of 3 of our members who have died - Val Jeffery from Ipswich East, Linda King from Hunstanton and District and Gillian Upton from Watton.

I was invited to share in the 70th Birthday Celebrations of Beccles Club - actually the celebration was a year late due to restrictions last year - I am so glad they did celebrate their important milestone. It was a very happy occasion. I attended District 24's Rally in October - again a happy occasion and everyone made me very welcome. So far I have only made 1 club visit which was to Saffron Walden where I enjoyed very much sharing lunch and speaking to members.Visiting all the clubs in the District will be my focus in the New Year. I look forward very much to meeting you all in your clubs.

Thank you to members who are supporting my Charity - The British Heart Foundation, by donating their unwanted items. I have heard some clubs are doing really well. Please keep it up. Large and small items are all acceptable. Remember to keep a record of the number of items donated. The Citizen Advice Bureau is currently appealing for people to donate items to charities, especially at this time of year to help poorer families. By donating we are not only recycling but also helping others.

I trust you will all be having a festive celebration in your clubs. Remember my motto "be positive, but flexible" - wear masks where needed and keep safe.

It only remains for me to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful and Healthy 2022.

YIF
Coral Campbell
District 8 Chairman

December 2021