Aircrew Association (Bexhill)

WARM tributes were paid to the late Ken Igglesden and his wife Elsie at the branch's Annual General Meeting. Annual reports by chairman Brian Randall and committee members confirmed that finances are in good order and that planning for a full programme of events for 2011 would shortly be under way. A vote of thanks was recorded for committee members, all of whom were re-elected unanimously.

Recent events had included an enjoyable visit to Jempson’s Bakery workshop, organised by Geoff Brown. In September 12 members mustered at the War Memorial for the 70th Anniversary Battle of Britain wreath-laying ceremony and on September 26 for the service at St Michael’s Church, Glassenbury Drive, conducted by branch member, Rev Daniel Smith.

October’s meeting featured a fascinating talk by Angus Radford, Deputy Chief Inspector of the Marine and Fisheries Agency, on the marine management organisation’s responsibility for inshore and offshore planning and regulation.

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A revealing insight into the underwater environment and the wealth of marine life on our own doorstep highlighted the importance of reconciling sustainable development with the protection of resources. This embraces a wide range of activities including regulation and support for the fishing industry, extraction of mineral resources, the potential impact of offshore wind farms and the minimising of coastal erosion, environmental damage and chemical contamination.

A slightly bizarre but reassuring example involved the challenge of accommodating gravel extraction for reinforcing coastal defences while protecting a long-established crab migration route nearby. This most enlightening presentation was rounded off with excellent video coverage of the great variety of marine life inhabiting our part of the Channel.

On Monday, November 8 Peter Hobbs will deliver the second part of his talk on The Spitfire Saga. Members planning to attend the branch Christmas lunch on December 14 are reminded to bring their completed forms and cheque books with them.

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