The Annual General Meeting was held on 3rd March and the Chairman's Annual Report was circulated to members and approved unanimously. The Chairman, John Illston, highlighted the new events of the past year. These included the setting-up of the web site, which should raise the profile of Salisbury U3A in the area, the decision to buy a projector, which will improve the slide presentations at the monthly meetings, and the U3A's increasing involvement in outside activities, for example in the Salisbury Healthcare support group, where it can offer its advice and opinions on current issues.

The main activities, the self-help groups and the excursions have been very successful. There are currently over 60 groups and Rosemary Nicholls' trips to theatres and places of interest have been a centrepiece of the year. Leaders spend much time and effort in running their groups, and deserve everyone's support.

The Secretary, Neville Jennings, was re-elected for another year. The Treasurer, Dennis Callaway, is standing down and David Wilson was elected in his place. Dorette Sloan and Hylda Jones are leaving the committee, their places are being taken by Elisabeth Richmond and Christine Dickson. There have been no nominations for a Vice-Chairman to succeed John Illston as Chairman next year, John is hoping that someone will come on to the committee during the year in that capacity. A new Independent Examiner of Accounts is needed, and nominations are requested. The meeting agreed to give the committee the discretion to make this appointment.

The Treasurer's report was also circulated and approved unanimously. The Chairman thanked Dennis Callaway for having done a magnificent job and for producing accounts that everyone could understand!

Trips currently being booked are a day in Cardiff on Tuesday 11 May and two Garden Group outings: one to Furzey Gardens on April 26 and one to Abbotsbury sub-tropical gardens on June 14. A second visit to look behind the scenes at Salisbury Playhouse will be arranged shortly.

After the AGM business, Chris Dixon gave a talk about "My enjoyable time at the centre of U3A." Having been a committee member, Course Organiser, and Chairman of Salisbury U3A, as well as Family History subject network co-ordinator, Representative of the Wessex area and three years on the NEC, she has had an extensive experience of the organisation at all levels.

Christine has become aware of how widespread the U3A is and has been able to talk to people all over the country and discuss mutual problems. She joined the U3A to use her brain and get involved, and has enjoyed talking to intelligent, knowledgeable adults, contributing to discussion groups, chairing meetings, making world-wide contacts and even appearing on TV. She has been involved in something important and valuable, and her journey of learning and discovery has been very worthwhile.