At the meeting on Tuesday, the chairman, Harry Hill, welcomed 33 members. Apologies for absence received from nine members.The chairman, and president George Nutburn, reported that Sid Eldridge was ill but cheerful and hoped to attend the forthcoming garden party.

At the meeting on Tuesday, the chairman, Harry Hill, welcomed 33 members. Apologies for absence received from nine members.

The chairman, and president George Nutburn, reported that Sid Eldridge was ill but cheerful and hoped to attend the forthcoming garden party. Ernie Smith, reported to be in hospital, was at the meeting and looking forward to the release of his book. A card was signed by members and will be sent to Sid Eldridge and his wife.

Doug Ewells reported that after years of absence, there are now two pairs of cranes nesting in the area. Cream spotted ladybirds and the larger than usual harvest of lavender were also featured in his nature report.

The birthdays of Geoff Harding, John Robinson, John Burt, John Darnell and Frank Hill were celebrated.

Minutes secretary, Ken Renshaw, read the minutes of the July meeting, which were agreed and signed by the chairman with no matters arising. Secretary, Wally Parnell, produced the second club magazine which was well received by members. Treasurer, Tim Macer, reported that the charity chosen for the club's garden party at the Parkhill Hotel on August 11 is Palliative Care East.

Ken reported on two coach breaks to the Cotswolds in August and September; Oulton Broad Library's Monday morning (10.30-noon); Prime Time meeting on August 3; the Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival from September 3 to 7 and Music hath Charms concert at Gorleston Methodist Church at 7.30pm on Saturday.

The chairman asked whether any member had a croquet set for use at the garden party and reminded members to bring items of produce, cakes and raffle prizes on the day.

A raffle and refreshment break followed, after which an audio visual presentation of life in California's Mahavre Desert was given by member Tony Taunton.

The meeting closed with a reminder that the next club meeting will be on Tuesday, September 1, when the speaker will be Paul Light talking about First Response.