AGM Weekend

28-31 March 2008

Late last year Derbyshire Submariner members were asked who would be interested in a visit to Barrow for the weekend of the AGM and a group of nine came forward. As nine would not go into two cars, well not comfortably anyway I decided that I would travel by train and spend an extra day looking at the sites of Barrow in Furness which I have never visited before. Taking advice from the ex-Barrow stalwarts, Mick Sharratt and Bas we made a booking at the White House Hotel (Pictured Below Left) on Abbey Road in Barrow in Furness. On the Friday I set off from home at ten to eight on the country stagecoach to Derby and other members met up to set off by car at a similar time to set off about nine and ironically we all arrived at the White House Hotel at about the same time around 1pm, dumped our cases and adjoined to the bar.

A quick refreshment and Jim & I set off to explore Barrow and particularly the maritime museum the enticement being it was free! The Maritime Museum was set into an old graving dock, which had been sealed half way of its length and had some very interesting displays and history but unfortunately the Barrow Paintings display had been removed and not much on submarines but very much a worthwhile visit. We returned to the Hotel to find the Derby group still ensconced in the bar and we were joined by Portsmouth and NE Scotland for even more lamp swinging. Most dined in the hotel and we set off for the RV at another hotel, the Victoria Park Hotel, which was only a short distance and very easy to find (honest!) We had a good social evening and it was a very sociable and good evening. I had split up to visit the local Chinese Takeaway and heard the tales of woe of the Navigators' the next morning at breakfast in the hotel! The names have been removed to protect the guilty but the story went that they had only got lost enroute back to the hotel because a Tiff said we go right, the Seaman said we head for the traffic lights, the stoker was past caring and the Mech was still drinking at the hotel. The three ladies by all accounts took the very sensible course of action of following behind chuntering about men's navigation!! Anyway to save them all getting lost on Saturday night the Chief Sparker did the navigation both ways with no problem and the mech was still drinking back at the hotel! The lively wash-up on the night before made breakfast even more enjoyable before we set off for the rest of the day's organised events.

The Barrow Branch had kindly arranged Saturday morning visits into BAE to enable groups to go around the building to view the three boats in build with Astute back in and our Derby boat looking very much like a submarine. We walked through the BAE building in awe at the size of the place and also the massive size of the submarines. Ambush now has her fin on and was more visible than Astute and then we were taken five stories up around the gantries to see Ambush in all its glory and we were just level with the top of the fin which really showed how massive these new submarines are. To say everyone was immensely impressed would be an understatement and the SA Barrow Members and the crew of Astute were brilliant in their knowledgeable guiding of the different groups and the giving of their time and expertise was much appreciated. The Ambush is now far advanced from the shown photograph.

The second option was a short mini bus ride around to the dock where HMS/M Onyx is berthed alongside in the dock. She was purchased by a Barrow Business man when the Maritime Warships site in Liverpool went into receivership and towed up to Barrow. Again thank you to the volunteers of the Barrow Heritage Trust who gave us a conducted tour through the boat a very nostalgic visit for many who had served on P&O boats, though having to wear a hard hat meant a lot more bumps and bangs walking through the boat than without one. It was also duly noted that the boat must of shrunk a little as three of us at least could remember passing each other in the SRates Mess flat an achievement that was obviously impossible today?

Our small group decided to walk the short distance into town from the dock and very soon arrived at the Council House where the AGM was to be held but finding no entry via three entrances a group of twelve of us decided it was best to wait further directions and instructions and we retired to the Yates Wine Lodge across the road with view of one/two of the entrances. In time we were advised the one side of the building not explored was the actual entrance, but the reluctance to move due to the weather turning Faslane fashion meant on arrival it was almost the start of the conference.

The Conference

The Conference was held in the Barrow Council Chamber with everyone, delegates and observers being greeted by the Mayor of Barrow. The commanding officer of HMS/M Astute received a presentation of the Astute Painting and made a speech on the attributes of the new boat. Both the CO and Mayor received presentations from the NMC on behalf of the Association including the SA History Book and SA Plaques. The Roll Call of delegates commenced with 33 Branches in attendance. A minute's silence was observed for departed submariners and the President made his Annual address. Sir James stated it was nice to be in the birthplace of submarines 107 years ago and praised the work of the present RASM David Cooke and the various liaisons and work of the Submarine Museum and the departure of Jeff Tall from the same. We did not get our normal super highlight of the speech joke from Sir James, but I suspect that this was because the whole conference was being video'd for the new Submariners Assn video; You owe us one Sir!! After Sir James speech the Astute's CO and Mayors party departed the Council Chamber.

Minutes and actions followed by the Officers Reports. Jim McMaster the Secretary reported Membership stood at 2,443, Encouraged members to attend Embankment Parade, 183 feedback good, response for SM Poems good and encouraged communications between members and branches. The Treasurer, Rick Elrick gave his report, which due to forward planning and distribution to all branches prior to conference enabled a slick report. A report from the Vice Chairman, Ted Hobden was read out seeking any feedback or suggestions with regards the Embankment Parade which could be used to enhance the service and organisation. (Please submit through Branch Secretary). The embankment parade is Sunday 2 November 2008, Royal Marine Band and a Liverpool members son makes a CD of photographs available from the Chair at £3 each with about 370 pictures on and they are available from the last two years.

Proposals & Recommendations

1. A unanimous decision was given to the Manchester proposal that minimum standard of dress for the reunion dinner would be jacket and tie and entry could be refused if members do not comply.

2. and 3. Because the Dolphin and Lincoln Branch proposals were opposite each other they were discussed as one. The vote was taken but the totals did not tally with delegates and a revote was taken and as there was only one vote in it a recount undertaken but it was clear that the Lincoln proposal was one vote ahead and thus the status quo of a submariners only dinner will remain for the next three years which is the soonest it can then be brought before conference. My personal feeling on this are that we appear to have a 50/50 split in the Association on this topic and hopefully the democratic vote is accepted as the desire and it will encourage many branches not in attendance to realise that by not being at conference they could of swung a completely different result. However, some branches desire to attend conference is thwarted due to age and health of branch members which is a reflection of our ageing membership in many branches.

4. The recommendation to revert to the traditional funeral colours of previous designs of SA Poppy wreath was voted 29 to 4. This means officially the black on gold must be used for ceremonial wreath laying and the coloured green/black motif is now no longer accepted as an official SA Wreath. We voted against this at branch and at conference and will discuss it at a branch meeting especially our use of our own SA Derbyshire wreaths.

5. The recommendation that full control of the Annual Reunion including the choosing of venues be given to the NMC was withdrawn by the chair. This for those who attend branch meetings was queried by myself as already being in place and the delegate's decision by the branch not required.

The Chair, Dave Barlow gave a comprehensive report on the 2008 Reunion being held in Nottingham. As branch members have already been bombarded with details and confirmation for bookings their was no new information I have not already circulated to members. Central Lancs were voted to undertake and propose the 2008 Reunion Toast and Portsmouth Branch volunteered to undertake the 2009 National Raffle. Any branch member (and partner) interested in this event for a 2009 short break weekend let me know?

The election of officers saw 42 votes for Colin Way, 39 for Rick Rothwell, 10 for Rod Senior and 7 for Mick Brocklesby and the conference was advised that two NMC members and the Chairman's position would be available to volunteer for in 2009.

The final item was the Venue and date of the 2009 National Conference of which two branches had indicated they would like to host. The first presentation was Northern Ireland to be held in Bangor with information on flights, transport and possibilities. The second proposal was submitted by Dorset Branch to be held in Weymouth and a very good and comprehensive report was given but the punch line was that none return deposits for the hotel would have to be paid within the week, which effectively killed the proposal dead. I had severe reservations on cost and asked two nearby delegates whether they would second London, but neither would, and the final vote taken was fait accompli with Northern Ireland being chosen with some abstentions, and the Dorset representative who had made the presentation for Dorset stated Northern Ireland sounded so good he would vote for Northern Ireland, which had the whole conference in stitches. So the final outcome was that the 2009 conference will be at Bangor Castle, Northern Ireland on the 28 March 2009. I will be seeking an idea of cheap flights and accommodation and let members know to see if anyone is interested in flying over for an extended long weekend e.g. Friday return Monday and some interest has already been given for making a weeks holiday of the event; let me know informally if you are interested?

On completion of this decision on next years AGM our treasurer, Rick Elrick made some announcements about National coverage of travelling expenses and the use of cheap flights etc. It was stated the cost of flights would not be an open cheque book and total paid out would depend on a budget set by the NMC and any absorbent claim would be rejected. The advice given by both the NI Representative and the Treasurer was to book very early to ensure the cheapest flights. I have severe personal reservations on the impact that potential delegates could have a financial burden and worry that their bona fide costs will be met and sincerely hope these worries prove to be unfounded.

Conference concluded we headed back to join the ladies at the hotel and surprise, surprise; found them in the bar waiting for us. Evening meal concluded we once again headed to the Victoria Park Hotel for the evening social organised by the Barrow Branch. The first part of the evening was very lively with a bucket collection for the group and raffle ticket selling. However, we found when the group flashed up that talking and conversation became impossible and we therefore timber shifted back to the White House with no problems with Navigation as explained earlier! However, the bar area at the White House had the same noise level problem but the quiet Lounge Area had its own bar and was perfect for out purposes of a group conversation and dit spinning. Everyone made Sunday breakfast and loaded up their cars including my case in Bas's car and as the group set off for home I set off for a walk over to Walney Island in fine weather which I enjoyed all day.

The Barrow Tourist Information booklet contained an excellent road map of Barrow and using the TI books obtained by the branch earlier in the year navigation was no problem. I walked through the shipyard areas and crossed the bridge to Walney Island and headed to the opposite side of the island to the North Sea. Unfortunately the island appears to be a haven not only for birds and nature but dog lovers who do not clear up after themselves and the dog muck problems were some of the worst I have seen in this country despite the Barrow Corporation giving out Poop Bags and many signs saying clear up; it was obvious the dogs could not read. Dog muck apart it was very quite a pleasant walk along the far coast and I learnt that due to over fishing of cockles that from Walney Island/Barrow right down to Fleetwood about 600 square nautical miles had been banned to cockle fishers since 2005 to encourage the stocks to build up! I was informed this ban was nothing to do with the Chinese cockler's disaster but purely to conserve stocks.

I returned to the mainland via the scenic Barrow Coast Path, which is very pleasant and was almost dog muck free and revisited the Maritime Museum for a further look around and coffee and snack. I then headed out to the far side of the harbour passing the 'Harbour' pub where we had agreed to meet at 12 Noon but being a little early I headed off up the harbour towards the sea lock gates investigating three brand new smart Frigates moored up. A chat with various dockyard workers rooted out the ships were ordered and paid for by the Sultan of Brunei and then cancelled as being too technical specification and they were up for sale but little problems like no heating and only air conditioning suitable for hot countries and a gun on the front which was so fully automated that it fired one shot and the smoke cut the computer out etc were causing a problem apart from the asking price.

Unknown to me at this time I had completely forgotten to turn my watch on one hour and had not noticed any problem as my alarm clock is radio controlled so did not pick up the problem until later in the afternoon so instead of being at the 'Harbour PH' at Noon I polled in after 1pm to find the Irish lads had gone for their return flight and the Barrow reception man had also left but I joined the remaining submariner, John Laing from NE Branch and later on we were joined by three of the Barrow Branch Members.

I used Monday morning before departure to view the Barrow Paintings and the Council House staff were very co-operative in showing me around the committee room where they are so wonderfully displayed, and the extensive collection in the town library was well worth a visit and appreciated before getting my train near lunchtime. The train company announcement that three highland cows were having a stroll on the line meant an hour delay but when the rail staff finally got them off the evidence was apparent; but coupled with a points failure near Sheffield, meant a late arrival home, but well worth the effort of a wonderful weekend in good company.

Editor's Note:

This report was written for the Members of the Submariners Assn (Derbyshire) to advise them of Conference Decisions and happenings and as a Dit on our group run ashore they dipped out on for whatever reason. It is not a full conference report and this will be covered by the unadopted minutes to be issued which can be viewed by any Branch Member who requests it from the Secretary. Sincere thanks to the The North West Evening Mail in Barrow for use of their photographs taken in Barrow Town Hall.

Email thank you Letter sent by Derbyshire Branch

To All At The Barrow Branch

On behalf of the nine Derbyshire members and partners who visited Barrow over this last weekend may I say thank you to all involved in the organisation, visits and socials. The whole group participated Friday night and on Saturday morning were particularly impressed with the Ship Hall visit especially to see our City's adopted boat Ambush looking like a submarine; the whole site was so impressive, and we thank those who gave their Saturday morning to show us around both from the Branch and the crew members of HMS/M Astute (John H, maybe you could pass this on please especially to Bob the Stoker who showed our group around). The trip around HMS/M Onyx was nostalgic for many of us and again we thank the volunteers who gave their time.

Conference was well executed and the staff at the break were excellent with their service. The evening get together proved too noisy for our group, but it was an enjoyable evening and weekend. The bulk of the group departed Sunday morning well satisfied with a really good weekend despite the weather trying to dampen things on Saturday dead on 12am as we made our way to the conference!

I was fortunate to enjoy the fine weather of Sunday though remembered to turn my alarm clock on but not my wrist watch thus arrived in the 'Harbour' at 1pm not 12am as I thought; and thus missed the Irish Lads who had already left. The company was enjoyed of NE Branch and three of the Barrow members joined later in the afternoon and their company was enjoyed. Thanks to all. I used Monday morning before departure to view the Barrow Paintings and the Council House staff were very co-operative in showing me around the committee room where they are so wonderfully displayed, and the extensive collection in the town library was well worth a visit and appreciated before getting my train near lunchtime. The train company announcement that three highland cows were having a stroll on the line meant an hour delay but when the rail staff finally got them off the evidence was apparent; but coupled with a points failure near Sheffield, meant a late arrival home, thus our thank you delayed slightly, but I hope this email is picked up before your Branch AGM tonight at the RBL Club.
Terry Hall, Hon Secretary, Submariners Association (Derbyshire)

General Message to All Branches from Barrow

On behalf of the Barrow Branch can I give a big thank you to all Branches, Delegates, Observers and other visitor's who came to Barrow for the National Conference. It was nice to catch up with some friends we haven't seen for a long time. We hope that you all enjoyed the 'Meet and Greet' on Friday, the Yard Tour and the ONYX visit, the Dinner Time Session in the Harbour on Saturday afternoon and the Social Event in the Victoria Park Hotel on Saturday evening. Hopefully there were not too many sore heads!

We also hope you enjoyed the Conference which, of course, was what it was all about! Your generosity in supporting the evening raffle on Saturday was amazing as we not only managed to pay for the 'Duo' (weren't they good!) but we also made a small profit which will be split 50/50 between the HMS ONYX funds and HMS ASTUTE for donation to their charity. We trust that you all got home safely and hope that we will see you all (and more) again in July for the Annual Draw at the Vickerstown Institute.

Regards and thanks again, Barrie Downer, Barrow Branch Secretary.

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