2023-06-05-annual-report

ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23 - HARTFORD FRIENDSHIP CLUB We are happy to be up and rutinkng again after '¢ovid'. Unfortunately, membership has fallen due to some members not feeling confident to attend meetings and also some members are suffering from illness and we have lost some very long-standing members over the year. It was a shock when our Chairn]an passed away at the end of (ktober but we appreciate that Lorna George stepped in and thank her for her Work in keeping the Club running. In September, 2022 we celebrdted the late Queen Elizabeth's Jubilee with a BBQ and entertainment by Brian Johnston. Paul Mcclelland from 'Make the Call. gave a talk in October and outlined all the benefits to which we might be entitled and encouraged everyone to telephone and check as many benefits are unclaimed by people. The Ballybay Gospel Singers retumed in November and delighted members with a concert of well- known gospel songs. Our Amiual Christmas Dinner was held in the Hall and was provided by Park Catering. Members enjoyed a traditional Christmas Dinner with music by Gerry Black and Willie Clayton afterwards. In January, Keith Lyttle and the Ulster Scots Orchestra from Markethill entertained members with renditions of hymns. marches and popular songs. Dr Rodgers from Arniagh Health Centre gave some excellent advice on Diet, Exercise, Smoking and Alcohol in February. Her healthy eating and mental health awareness was of benefit to members and much appreciated. The Committee felt it was not feasible to hold a Coffee Morning and it was poSt￿ned until a later date. In March, Emma Davidson brought along a display of leather handbags and explained how they were rafted. We held an Easter Paty in April with a special supper. Drew Rowan, a very talented flautist frorn Corcrain Flute Band demonstrated his tslent with a very lively concert. The role of a paramedic was outlined by Mark Dougan in May. Members were made aware of the trauma and stress in carrying out this vital service. Our Amiual Outing was held on 24 May. We had Morning Coffee in the Diamond. Warrenpoin( followed by a visit to Moygannon Garden Centre and free time in Newcastle. It was a beautiful sunny day and we returned to Annagh City Hotel for a delicious meal. We have heard previously about 'Old Arniagh, and tonight we look forward to Albert Nichol tell us about 'New Arn]agh'. We have now secured some funding from ABC Council Grants which ￿1] help pay for the hire of the hall, insurance and stationery. Madg¢ and Margaret have worked with Tracy Powell and we hope to secure further funding for next year's activities. We hope you WAII aid us in increasing membership by bringing YOUT friends to the meetings. The Committ¢¢ is working tirelessly to keep the Club running and appreciate all your support over the past year. Thank yo