Secretary's Report 2020: Review Of Constitution And Financial Matters.pdf

Review of Constitution
The Constitution has no major changes, but the Executive Committee recommends alternative means of voting due to Charity Commission recommendations. A marked up version with proposed changes appears on the website, and the Committee recommends voting in favour of this change. The appointment of Auditor is intentionally not included on the voting slip, as the Society is compliant with Independent Examiner as its form of Scrutiny. An Administrative Change to Part 1, previously approved by the Charity Commission, will carry forward.

Financial Matters
Following the Treasurer's resignation, the Secretary worked with the Chairman to ensure the Society's financial matters were kept in good health. A total of £8,500 was transferred from the Investment account to the current account to prevent it from going into the red. The financial position allowed for the temporary transfer to be earmarked for return, resulting in a healthy balance in the current account. The Secretary thanks Stephen Frost for fulfilling the requirement for financial Scrutiny for 18 years.

Administration
The resignation of the Treasurer led to the remaining Trustees considering their positions. The Secretary refers to previous reports on "Best practice" and has brought to the attention of prospective Trustees the Guidance available from the Charities Commission, especially those relating to Trustees. The details of the Trustee Declaration Form have been transcribed and made available for distribution.

Membership
There are currently 151 paying members of the Society, made up of 106 standard members, 41 over 80's, and 4 overseas. There are an additional 4 honorary members, bringing the total to 155. During the last year, 10 new members were welcomed, and 3 passed away. There will be no change in Membership fees for next year.

Finally
The Secretary reflects on their time with the Committee, having been invited to join in 2006 and elected Secretary in 2007. They are proud to have been part of the Team that achieved many good things for the benefit of the Society and hope to continue to keep history alive in their own way.