The committee was joined by a small number of members for this AGM, an event required to take place by our Club’s rules.

Brian began the meeting by reporting successes the BHOC had achieved in its first year and thanking everyone who had made these possible.

Further reports were delivered by those on the committee who held various responsibilities.

Sue Sampson told those present of the many successful re-homings that she had arranged. This important work was greatly appreciated and Sue was rightly praised for all she had done for needy hounds.

Likewise, Derek Harris’ website was praised for it’s plentiful Basset Hound related content and its ability in providing members with the latest up to date information. The site’s potential to advertise the work of the Club and thereby recruit new members was also greatly appreciated.

Jean Miller said that the Club walks were attracting high numbers of hounds and seemed to be enjoyed by most members.

Lowdown’s editor said he was grateful for all the contributions that he had received from members and highlighted the efficient service that Elephant Print provided in printing Lowdown. He also remarked how cost effective they are.

All the existing officers and committee were re-elected.

It was decided, after some discussion, to consider ways to attract more members to attend future AGMs. One suggestion was to combine the event with a Club walk. To hold a slightly shorter walk and use a suitable venue, close to the walk, perhaps after having a packed lunch, and to then hold the AGM. It is hoped that by doing this the AGM will become a more accessible and inclusive part of the Club calendar.

Anyway, this matter was referred back to the committee to be discussed further and Lowdown will keep you updated on developments. *

It was suggested that, after the success of the previous event, the Club holds another Basset Camp weekend. As the previous venue is no longer available, it was thought that members should investigate alternative suitable places to hold this. (Any members with suggestions for a venue, please let anyone on the Committee know).

In ‘Any Other Business’, a suggestion to start a registry in Lowdown containing the names of BHOC members who would be prepared to look after other members’ hounds for holidays or at times of crisis- i.e. an emergency hospital admission; or during other family problems, etc. Any financial arrangements would be agreed between the parties concerned. If you would be interested in joining such a list please email me your details.

After the formal part of the AGM those present enjoyed some light refreshments prepared by Jill, Sue, and Jean. Your editor, for one, enjoyed slightly too many delicious cakes and biscuits! This was an good opportunity for everyone to chat about aspects of the Club, and it was a bit of a shame that more folk decided not to attend.