Many thanks for another very good turnout of members.

 

Agenda items and subsequent discussions, were as follows :

 

 

Update on club membership.

The last two months saw a review of the existing listed membership, with a request that interested parties re-assert their interest in the club before a stated date. This interest means to attending club meetings where possible, being involved in diving activities and generally being part of the dive group. Of the 360 listed members, we have now firmly established a core group of 53 persons.

 

A discussion was held on our current thinking. It was widely agreed that we needed to return "to the basics" as regards planning of dive trips etc. We now have excellent communications potential between members and we should utilise this wherever possible. It was widely agreed that we should focus on manageable UK trips and develop to more elaborate dive trips when more organised and comfortable. Alongside this, we wish to encourage regular diving art Capernwray and Delph. Its an undeniable fact that more time in the water makes a better diver! If you are planning a dive or just feel like one, drop me an email and I'll forward to the other members.

 

Another key issue was the subject of volunteers. Each trip will generally require one or two individuals to organise and drive forward. This is the core of our activities and such volunteering is essential for anything to move forward. The members generally agreed this was reasonable.

 

 

Who's attending the Anniversary weekend at Trearduur on 21 August?

 

There are currently seven individuals confirmed as attending the Trearduur weekend.

 

• John Taylor

• Paula/Trevor Bunner

• Andy Dorrian

• Gary Fleet

• Becky McKenna

• Terry Bower

 

If you are intending to come along, its important you let me know so we can establish numbers for the Bunner Barbie! John Taylor will discuss with Paula and will let you know the final arrangements re food etc. Many appear to be planning a stay at the local campsite, including myself. Anyone familiar with this campsite, please let me know details and I'll onpass to other members.

 

 

Club night out - Friday 27 Aug.

 

All members are very welcome! This is your opportunity to meet other members and start networking for your forthcoming dive trips! Meet in the Rat & Parrot at 7.30!

 

 

Germany and Oban trip proposals

 

As indicated above, the Germany proposal was felt to be too ambitious and expensive. The Oban proposal showed real potential and was felt to be quite manageable. Suggested dates were around April 2011. Margaret Courtney very kindly offered to research and furnish us with some suitable dates. All members please be aware that such trips will undoubtedly require early commitment and deposits. Late cancellation will result in loss of deposit. Costs can be reduced by planned car-sharing and group booking of Puffin, Oban accommodation. Will let you all know the proposed dates. The dates with the most available persons will likely be the trip we go for.

 

 

Birks Bridge, Lake District

 

This dive venue was featured in a recent Dive Magazine review. Andy Dorrian and Margaret Courtney are looking into it and are planning a recce over next couple of weeks.

 

 

Classifieds (Diving kit for sale)

 

We have introduced a classified section to our club. If you have any spare dive bits for sale, please email to me and I'll distribute to members.

 

 

Forthcoming guest speakers.

 

• Inshore Rescue Service (Andy Fell)

• North Wales SeaSearch

• Irish Sea Marine Conservation

• Commercial Diving (Iain Hay and I are happy to provide an informative view.

 

 

The above organisations have informed me that they are happy to attend our meetings and give a presentation. Each organisation is relevant to us as recreational divers. I plan to arrange visits from September 2010 onwards. Please be aware that, nearer the time, I will require confirmation that you will be attending so we can provide an appropriate audience etc.

 

Next meeting will be 25 August 2010

 

Any ideas or suggestions, feel free to drop me an email to Bxtaylor2@hotmail.com

 

 

Cheers and safe diving!

 

John Taylor