AGM 2010 Review
Mike began the proceedings by welcoming members and their guests and thanked them for attending in such high numbers and described why he thought HMS Belfast was such a fitting venue for the Institute's 30th AGM.
Mike then announced the appointment of the IoR's new President, Gordon Penrose FIoR. Unfortunately Gordon couldn't be there in person as he was leading a delegation to Romania, however he did send a video message to the AGM describing his honour at becoming the IoR's President and how he was looking forward to becoming actively involved and meeting the Board of Governors in Belfast the following month.
Following Mike's speech about his two very successful and enjoyable years in office he handed over to Honorary Treasurer Mike Kilbey FIoR who described the financial position of the Institute and how like every other organisation the Institute had suffered as a result of the downturn in the economy but was taking measures to ensure that the strong foundation of the Institute was maintained.
Next on the Agenda was the award of the IoR's Student of the Year which went to Stephen Ricketts AIoR.
Stephen, an estimator with BriggsAmasco, scored very impressive marks in his examinations - gaining a distinction overall. He was presented with a trophy, certificate and a cheque for £250 from sponsors Redland Training Centre, South Cerney.
It was then the turn of Mike Harris FIoR to hand over the Chain of Office to Martin Adwick FIoR. Mike described how he was sorry to be stepping down as Chairman but he could think of no one better than Martin to take over the position and wished him well for his two years in office.
Martin gave a short speech thanking Mike for all his hard work over the previous two years and said how he hoped he would be able to take the IoR forward in the difficult times that lay ahead for the industry in general.
Following the announcement that two members of the Board of Governors - Tom Moon FIoR and Alan Williamson FIoR - were stepping down, Mike was delighted to announce that two new Governors had been appointed - Mike Goddard & Clive Coote - who he was certain would bring a new younger perspective to the board.
After the normal AGM business was concluded including proposed constitutional changes which were accepted unanimously, John Wills, a former Petty Officer who served onboard HMS Belfast and who now gives talks about the ship, gave a very interesting and at times amusing account of his time onboard, including a tour of duty during the Korean War.
John was asked many questions about his time onboard and the ship - given John was 80 years of age his recollections were fascinating and deservedly got a rousing round of applauses following which a buffet lunch was served in the 'Ward Room'. Many attendees took the opportunity to have a conducted tour of HMS Belfast by John which ended a very successful 30th AGM for The Institute of Roofing.