League of Friends hold 70th AGM

Milford Hospital League of Friends held their 70th Annual General Meeting on Monday 2th7 September 2021

Vice Chairman Don Waite opened the Meeting at the Community Centre in the absence of the Chairman Julie Badham and welcomed 31 members of the League and one visitor, and thanked them for their support. Apologies were received from 15 members.

The Minutes of the Annual General General Meeting held in May 2019 were approved.

Don read the Chairman's report which highlighted the problems being encountered during the Covid pandemic. Julie reported on changes in the Committee and recorded her thanks to its members.

In stating that she was standing down as Chairman due to a proposed move away from the area, she reviewed the highs and lows of being a Committee Member, and volunteer at the War Memorial Hospital. Thankfully the hospital was being well used now as a Covid vaccination centre, but it seemed that its future was still in some jeopardy, if the Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) was to have its way. She called on everyone to support the League of Friends

Treasurer Barry Caddick reported on 2019 + 2020. The lack of activities due to Covid had a major impact on funds, with reserves in 2019 falling to £101,000 and even lower to £97,500 in 2020.

The Report was accepted, as was his proposal to move from an external audit to an inspection of accounts, with a saving of some £600 per annum.

Following the re-election of the existing Committee, two new members were appointed, and Don Waite confirmed as Chairman.

Angela Eldridge
receiving 20 year certificate

After expressing his thanks to the meeting for his appointment, the new Chairman proceeded to present long service awards for 10 years’ service to Jean Halliday, Helen Lister and Josie Warren; and a 20 year certificate to Angela Eldridge.

The Chairman expressed his thanks to Julie Badham for all of her years of service and dedication to the League of Friends and also outlined in broad terms his intentions regarding contact with the CCG and Milford Medical Centre.

There followed a lively discussion ranging from the League’s exercise classes, what might happen to the hospital, its War Memorial status, the possible PR benefit of a change of the League’s name, and future fund-raising plans.

The Chairman closed the meeting with thanks to all attendees.