AT the 34th annual meeting of Teignmouth and Dawlish Wine and Beermakers Circle, retiring chairman Alan Jones welcomed 21 members, including founder member Joe Bainbridge.
Five apologies were received including that of life member Pat Wilks, now living at Evesham. Sending her best wishes to the circle, she said was unable to drive the distance following a knee replacement operation, but hopes to visit during the year. Treasurer Roger Rowse reported a healthy balance and recommended there be no increase in subscription. It is possible the day trip or Christmas lunch can be subsidised. Mr Rowse also announced his retirement as treasurer, a post he has held for 10 years. He now lives in Saltash and finds it difficult to travel to committee meetings. He intends to remain a member and enjoy the varied activities and friendship of a close circle of friends. Following reports from the social secretary and the South Western Counties Federation and Torbay festival representative, the chairman accepted nominations for officers and the following were elected: chairman Rebecca Kemble, secretary Roy Kemble, both of Dawlish; treasurer Alan Jones of Teignmouth, with retained members Jill and David Patterson and Barbara and Colin Weight, all of Dawlish, completing the committee. Gifts of vouchers were presented to Roger Rowse and Ken Boobyer on their retirement from committee following many years of support and commitment to the wine circle. Before moving on to refreshments of pasties and home-made wine, the membership put together a programme for the coming year, which includes lunches, barbecue, day trip, cheese and wine evening, a Christmas celebration and supporting a local pantomime. Members are still encouraged to support competitions of home-made wines and beers at the Devon County Show, Torbay Area Festival, S W Counties Festival and a bread and beer competition with Torquay Guild. The circle will also be entering a team in the annual inter-circle quiz on April 21, hosted this year by Exeter Wine Circle, at the America's Hall, Pinhoe. For further information, contact Jill on 01626 865128.