Chairman’s Report for year ending 28 February 2018

As the session draws to a close, it is usual for the Chairman to summarise our activities throughout the year, and I must first record thanks to those who have contributed in any way to the maintenance and development of the Society during the year, and in particular the efforts of our Committee.

We must also thank the continued support of the Mission’s team.  The improvements to the car park and external lighting have made life easier.

As always we must thank Henry Mullarkey for his superb technical support which has contributed to the success of all our meetings – also much appreciated by our speakers.

To date we have kept within the budget set and I hope you will agree, have succeeded in providing an interesting and diverse range of speakers & topics.  Attendance has been high, so I hope that next year’s programme will not disappoint.

The summary of our years activities are available on the website, starting with The Big History Event at St George’s Hall in April. The outing in November to Cartmel Priory was a great success and well attended.

Next year’s details are well advanced and now outlined on the website.  It is intended to broaden our activities even further, and by popular request the Hot Pot Supper is back on our programme!

The next trip planned for May is to Pugin’s Church and Adlington Hall.   Thanks to Betty Benson these trips are well planned & organised – always popular with members and a great chance for an interesting day out.

On a sad note, members will no doubt be aware that Stuart Black, a long-time member of our Society died earlier this year.  We have been left an unexpected legacy from his estate.  This amount is shown in the accounts, and discussions are currently underway as to the best way forward with this legacy in line with the Society’s Constitution. The details will be announced once agreed, but we would be pleased to hear from any member who has suggestions.

The website together with the use of E-mail is now providing a reliable and cost effective method of communicating with members.   We are lucky to have Peter Hughes to thank for the efficient maintenance and updating of the site.

The Society has recently been made aware of the Data Protection Act 2018 and details of these arrangements to comply with the Act will be sent out shortly.

Our resource library is now back in use thanks to Tony for giving up his time.  We must not forget Colin, our Treasurer for his contribution.

The year-end accounts for 2017/2018 have been made available by the Treasurer.  Unfortunately for the second year, our accounts are as yet unaudited and we urgently need a suitable person to complete this.   It is not an onerous task – so please let me know if you are interested.

It is Pam Nanson our Secretary who represents OHS to a wider audience, and she has received many queries from the UK and around the world.  With her knowledge and experience she has solved some fascinating historical stories and mysteries.   We plan to share some of these in the future with a small display at a social evening.

Ormskirk Historical Society has a great history itself – and long may it continue – so thank you for your support and involvement.

Pam Harrison

Chair