AGM REPORT

Chairman Barry Reid welcomed 39 members to the Societies 53rd Annual General Meeting held at Reydon Sports and Community Centre.

Before accepting previous minutes a minutes silence was held to remember two former members, Ronald (Jock) Ellis and Ronald Wink. Aged 97 and 94, both passed away at the end of last year.

The Chairman then reflected on what had been an ambitious and incredibly busy year, thanking those who had helped on the work parties but expressing disappointment at the lack of help with the redevelopment of Pit 3.

Financial support from the land owners combined with a successful grant bid and careful financial planning and control meant that the ambitions were achieved with the first phase of pit 2 pre planted coir being installed, Pit 3 silt and reed removed and a new otter fence provided.

Fishing continued to be good although not up to the previous years standard but that had been the best year ever.

Pit 2 saw one angler landing three thirty's during the season and tench in the 6 to 8lb bracket were reported. Pit 1 saw good catches if silver fish early season. The Crucians showed in Pit 2. Pit 4, despite some fish losses, fished consistently all season with fish to 25lb. Kessingland produced tench and bream for most of the year and it was hoped the recent addition of 330 small tench would continue to improve the water.

Since the AGM invite went out further work had been started on the second phase of the pit 2 coir installation, rebuilding a pit 2 swim back and installing a new one, installing a pipe from the ditch by Pit 4 to allow it to top up Pit 3 and screening the Pit 1 toilet. A section of hedge has been removed to trial the installation of faggots and pre-planted coir to deal with bank erosion between Pit 2 swims. Thanks were given to all involved but a request made for more volunteers.

Treasurer Paul Moss reported a very successful year due to the landowner support, the grant and close financial control following detailed planning. What had initially looked as though the Society would go into the red, putting the early delivery of planned works in doubt, ended up as being in a positive financial position going forward and the works delivered.

Those present supported all of the proposals put forward resulting in the subscriptions for Seniors increasing to £62, Senior Citizens, Disabled and Intermediates £51, Juniors remain free but donations encouraged. All joining fees, day and guest membership tickets remain the same.

The safeguarding policies for juniors and vulnerable adults were adopted. There is no need for members to sign and return the circulated copies of the policies, they now just need signing by the Chairman.

Several changes of committee and officers were agreed, specifically, Dean Bridges is now the Head Water Bailiff, Jed Gerrell takes on the role of Welfare Officer in addition to his Vice Chairmanship. Toby Samkin stood down as Secretary, a role that remains vacant and desperately needs filling. Ivan Julings and Cliff Waller stood down as Committee Members, Les Ellis taking one of the positions. All those retiring were thanked for their contribution, particularly Cliff Waller who had been on the Committee for 39 years.

It may be helpful for anybody considering joining the Committee to know that we only hold 10 Committee meetings a year and they are done using zoom so no need to leave your home to attend. Please contact me if interested.

The well supported raffle was drawn by Membership Secretary Beverly Reid and raised £225. Our thanks go to all who donated prizes and particularly Avenue Angling for their support.

Subscriptions are now due and must be paid no later than midnight on the 15th May. Places not taken up will immediately be offered to those on the waiting list which is very healthy.

Barry Reid - Chairman