Chairman's Miscellany - TrustNews June 2007
The launch of Time Gentlemen Please, an entertaining account of Winchester's pubs, hotels and breweries written by Phil Yates, was a fitting event to launch the Trust's 50th Anniversary year as well. Peter White, the well-known Wintonian broadcaster, kindly did the honours at the Mash Tun where he is the licensee, in the presence of the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor, assembled individuals who had contributed in various ways to the publication and Trust members. Winchester's hostelries contribute significantly to its history and character so it is appropriate that the Trust should be associated with this book for which it is indebted to Phil, who has generously donated his work to the Trust and has, in addition, invested his considerable skill and energy in promoting and distributing the books. This work has resulted in very healthy sales to date.
The City Council's Vision for Winchester was advertised as the subject of the meeting held at the Theatre Royal in March. It was disappointing that there was little reference during the evening to the contents of this document. However, in April, the Trust arranged a presentation to an invited audience at the West Downs Centre to suggest how the character of "the unique and irreplaceable asset" that is Winchester should be safeguarded for future generations. The presentation was made by Michael Carden MBE and Trust Vice-President Judge Christopher Clark QC chaired the meeting. The audience responded with interesting and varied comments on the problems to be considered and there was considerable support for the Trust's proposals.
Further events are planned for coming months. On Sunday June 3 some members have kindly agreed to open their gardens to Trust members and guests as circulated previously. The Summer Walks programme has been arranged by Chris Pile who, fortunately for the Trust, took over the organisation of this important annual activity from Nick McPherson. Starting with a double bill at the Cathedral on June 7th, Chris has produced a very interesting programme and we are grateful also to those who have agreed to lead the walks.
On Saturday June 23 the Trust has been invited to join with the Winchester Archaeology Rescue Group, the County Record Office and the City Museums Service to take part in the Summer Fete for the Mayor's charities to be held in the gardens of the Bishop's Palace at Wolvesey. The theme of the display is to be 'Exploring Hampshire through the ages'.
On July 26 there will be a Reception to celebrate the 50th Anniversary and to thank our retiring President, Sir Peter Ramsbotham, for his long and valued support of the Trust. Details of this event are given separately. All events and activities can also be found on the Trust's website www.cityofwinchestertrust. co.uk
Of course 50 years of Trust activity deserves celebration but it is also an appropriate time to look to the future and how the Trust should steer its course through predicted choppy seas ahead. Whatever the chosen course, the Trust will need the support of active volunteers to keep it afloat. In a separate article contributed by David Marklew you will read of the work done by the Planning Advisory Group. Shione Carden, who chairs this group, has been doing so for 20 years and a successor must be found if this important activity is to continue. Other activities are in need of assistance too and you will find a 'Wanted' advertisement listing activities in need. If you can help, please get in touch for further details. In conclusion, I can say that it is not all toil; there is satisfaction and good company too.
In writing about Trustees who do so much for the Trust, Antony Skinner, past Chairman has continued to work for the Trust in so many different areas from maintenance of the Heritage Centre, co-ordinating publicity, being vigilant over matters concerning planning, Winchester's trees, and being ever willing to help with all our activities. We were all shocked to hear of the horrible car accident that did so much damage to his face, hit by the windscreen. We were all relieved to hear that he is making a good recovery after extensive surgery and I am sure all members would wish to send him good wishes for a full and speedy recovery in due course.