Royal Naval Association - Bexhill Branch

The Branch business was, in the absence of our Chairman, conducted by the Vice-Chairman, Shipmate Derrick Trew. In his report, the Secretary, Shipmate Fred Cayton, read a letter from Shipmates of the Harare Branch who are unable to use their HQ for meetings due to the political unrest in Zimbabwe. Our Welfare Officier, Shipmate Derrick Smith, gave some valuable advice on obtaining attendance allowance should the need arise.

Shipmate Derrick Trew advised the members holding NHS European Health Travel Cards, to check the expiry date as they were not being automatically renewed. To renew your card telephone 0845 606 2030 or online www.dh.gov.uk/travellers

After the customary 'Stand Easy' for Shipmates to refill their glasses we were entertained with a very interesting talk by Malcolm Pratt who was the Clerk to the Corporation and an acknowledged authority on the history of early 'New Winchelsea'. The new town which assumed the status of old Winchelsea as Head Port of the Cinque Port Confederation which formed the alliance of Kent and Sussex ports that were England's bulwark against invasion in the days before there was a Royal Navy.

The ship identification competition set each month by Shipmate Don Newnham was won by Shipmate Jill Davies who correctly named the ship HMS Nonsuch.

The evening concluded with the monthly raffle organized by Shipmate Rita Murphy.

We are always delighted to welcome new members to the Branch, if you have a Naval background, Royal or Merchant, why not consider joining the Association and come along to our meetings?