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Autumn 2011

Dear Group Members,
After another harsh winter, the driest spring on record in the Southeast must have had an impact on our birds and wildlife. The food we provided on our bird tables has, I believe, been a life line to many species and continued to be so throughout the breeding period.

Last year I wrote concerning the future well-being of the group and the need for new faces to help with the administration. I am pleased to report that both Jean Howland and Jeff Wynn rose to the challenge. Jean steps in as Publicity Officer and Jeff takes on a new role as Membership Secretary. Trevor Graves steps down after 4 years' service and, on behalf of the committee and members, I wish to express our thanks for the high amount of time he spent in generating interest and promoting the group to the general public.

2010-11 saw the group raise £1,966 in pin badge/collecting box sales and £396 from Sales Goods. £1,500 was donated to the society. Thank you everyone who helped raise these monies.

The Coach Trip to Minsmere RSPB Reserve in June was again a great success and well attended. Bitterns were seen along with hobbies catching dragonflies, plus two spoonbills for good measure. Two new trips are scheduled in the current programme however these are reliant on your support. Please, therefore, send in your booking form as early as possible.

After another year of first class speakers, including a celebrity evening with Mike Dilger, Derek Jackson has again put together a new Indoor Meetings programme which, I believe, will be of the same high standard.

Don't forget our Wine and Wisdom fundraising evening on Saturday 29^th October 2011 and I am pleased to report that we have reinstated our Members Evening which is always great fun. Please make a note of all dates in your diary and bring along a friend. A good attendance means we can attract more volunteers and continue to run a healthy and active group.

There is an exciting programme of Outdoor Field Meetings put together by Simon and it includes field trips to our 'year in year out' favourite places, new venues, both Saturday and Sunday dates and, by popular demand, more half-day outings to local sites. Throw in the coach outings and you have something for everyone. We have included four work parties this time and would like to see new faces help with these 'conservation days'.

Take advantage of our website for all the latest group news and reports. Goto Reserve Update to find out the latest news about Kent and elsewhere.

A personal thank you to all members who have supported the group over the past months and I look forward to seeing you all in September.

Enjoy the birds.

Dick Marchese
Group Leader