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2012 AGM

AGM 2012 Centenary plans The 98th AGM was held at the Rendezvous Hotel in Skipton on Saturday 24 March 2012.

Almost 300 shareholders attended, many of whom stayed for the celebration weekend hosted at Newfield Hall, Malhamdale.

President Keith White welcomed everyone including invited guests: Tony Hall from Ramblers, and Vice Presidents, Peter Boulter, John Cass and Harry Southern.

The report of the 2011 AGM and SGM was accepted as an accurate record of those meetings.

The Annual Report and Accounts for the year to 31 October 2011 were approved. Chairman of the Board, Bob Gomersall, advised that performance over the past three years compared favourably with other organisations despite high inflation, weak demand, rising unemployment, rising costs and other unplanned events. The surplus for 2011 was £191,000 with an overall surplus over three years totalling £809,000.

Members applauded when told that this achievement, despite difficult economic times, was due to the innovative Management Team, led by Chief Executive Brian Smith. The Chairman referred to their focus on membership, seizing opportunities to lease properties, Dandelion Cafés and recognising great partnerships, as examples of a willing and responsible Management Team.

Membership now stands at over 32,000, raising £1.8 million, and has greatly contributed to the success. Guest satisfaction hit record levels and sales year to date are up 11% – the largest growth experienced in 30 years.

Authority for interest to shareholders of 2.5% was approved.

Members were praised for their support through their investments in shares, taking the holidays and attending events like the AGM, upon all of which HF Holidays is reliant for success.

The motion raised to provide clarification of the Standing Orders for the Conduct of General Meetings was not carried.

Five new Board members were congratulated on their appointment – Joyce Hilton, Stephen Swift and Wendy Sudbury, elected to serve for four years, Brian Tilley for three years and Anne Ellmes for one year.

Before the AGM finished, the President drew the North Herts Ramblers Club as winners of the Activity Club Draw.

Setting the tone for the forthcoming Centenary celebrations, Brian Smith referred to the Society as being 100 years young. During his address to members, he said that the Society was energetic, enthusiastic, optimistic, had ideas, was open to learning and prepared to try new things. This was the description often given to young people preparing for their future. Tied to 100 years of experience it was a real asset. The full transcript of Brian’s speech can be found at the bottom of the page.

A resolution was passed to thank Chairman, Bob Gomersall, and Director, Harry Wroe, who stood down from the Board this year.