Another Scottish visit for me today, this time at the kind invitation of John Walker, Chairman of the Branch. So armed with my trusty digital camera and an early departure from London I headed north to Carlisle before grabbing the picturesque service to the lovely town of Annan.

It would be fair to describe the structure of this branch as far flung – they cover a wide geographical area, which is largely very rural. Despite this they manage to meet regularly throughout the year to enjoy a programme that includes day trips and excursions. Their programme for 2010 has already been decided upon and includes a visit to Kelburn Castle (with lunch and shopping) in April, a trip out to Leyburn in the Yorkshire Dales in May and a Coniston cruise in June.

The purpose for my visit though was purely festive – to join the members at their annual Christmas lunch, which was held in the Queensberry Arms hotel in the centre of Annan. Nearly 50 members turned out to enjoy a seasonal fare of turkey dinner complete with mince pies and coffee and all looked the part (there was a plentiful supply of ‘bling’ and sparkle on display)! This was followed by what can only be described as a mammoth raffle (over 20 prizes were dished out and I failed to win a single one)!!!

This was my first experience of a more formal lunch and it was most enjoyable. I still had the opportunity to chat to visiting members and as usual, managed to snap many of them as they sat waiting for their lunch (for all the pictures, check out the photo gallery section of the website).

Leaving the hotel mercifully not having had to loosen my belt I was once again, very aware of the tremendous warmth and welcome I have been privileged enough to receive on all of my group visits this year. I continue to be inspired by the hard work and commitment shown by all of our members throughout the country and am very much looking forward to visiting even more groups in 2010.

Report filed by avanti editor David Tickner
Image shown is of Annan Town Hall