Chairman's Message Christmas 2022

Our first year in the post Covid era has almost passed and it has not been without its traumas, both national and international. Nevertheless, I think that it has been a successful one for Arts Society Lunesdale. We have been able to enjoy a full programme of lectures, organised by Angela Pape, on a wide variety of topics which have been well received. We have been unable to hold a large number of social events but Sue O’Brien led a very successful short tour to the south of England for a select group of members in May, and some of us also enjoyed a day trip in July, with a return to coach travel, visiting several attractions in Bishop Auckland, courtesy of John Wilson. Congratulations must also go to Mary Frankland, our Young Arts Lead, for obtaining an Arts Society grant and running much appreciated workshops in Illuminated Letters in July which involved two schools in less privileged areas of Lancaster.

One of the big talking points has of course been the introduction of the new two session format for our monthly meetings beginning in September. With a major change such as this we were naturally anxious that we were taking the right course but we have been reassured and gratified by the support that we have received from the large majority of members. I believe that the comfort and safety of our venue has been significantly improved and the greater space for socialising during and after meetings is very welcome. Car parking is also very much easier. Thanks to all, particularly Jenny Fisher and Judie Graham-Clegg, for the thought and hard work involved in organising this change.   

Looking ahead, we are happy to be able to re-establish the tradition of mince pies and mulled wine before our Christmas meeting on 20th December. We then look forward to another full programme of interesting lectures for 2023. The February meeting marks the 20th Anniversary of the inauguration of ASL and the occasion will be celebrated with a birthday cake. We plan to hold our AGM as a single meeting for all members on 27th June and this will also include an exhibition of members’ creative projects. Hopefully, we shall also be able to consider further social events and outings.

Thanks to all of you who have stayed with us during a difficult period and have renewed your membership for next year. Thanks also to our volunteer helpers including our two teams of ladies responsible for refreshments, car park attendants, audio-visual support, assistance at the Young Arts project and help on reception at Borwick Hall. A full and thriving membership and the support of our volunteers are essential for the continued good health of the Society. As a result of our new meeting arrangements we can now welcome applications from potential new members, so if you have friends who may be interested please encourage them to join or at least to come along, perhaps taking advantage of one of our free Arts Society tokens.

In the meantime, on behalf of your hard working and dedicated Committee, may I wish you a very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.

With Very Best Wishes

John Houghton