Committee Member's Letter Nov 2025

Dear member,

Time passes quickly and it doesn't seem like a year since the committee produced their last annual report, 2025 has proven to be an interesting one, this year the weather has been favourable leading to virtually all rallies taking place, many in the sunshine, certainly a change from last year.

Probably the biggest event since our last report has been the change involving Club insurance. In the past, as many of us do, when a renewal invitation is received, we have a little moan and pay up. Last year we had a wake up call when we were advised there our current arrangements could not continue and alternative cover was required. The committee

approached the market with details of our requirements and various quotes were received, and a decision taken to appoint our current insurers, a decision which has resulted in considerable costs savings

.

As a result of this change in insurance provider, we actually now have a policy document, (something which we now realise the Club have not seen for some years) and this highlighted responsibilities and requirements which may have been overlooked in the past. The Committee also recognised the need for a written Risk Assessment, and an element of formal training for Safety Officers. Whilst this may be looked upon as boring and unnecessary, they are a legal requirement. The Club Risk Assessment is available for all to see, and the majority of the Committee and some members have benefited from safety training.

Bearing in mind the debacle when it was (wrongly) suggested that one rally organiser was demanding £10 million liability insurance from engine operators, the Committee have taken the decision to increase the club liability limit. As from August this year member’s liability is increased from £5 million to £10 million.

From a financial point of view, club membership has increased by some 10% over the period, and the Committee have kept costs as low as possible. Savings on Insurance, and prudent spending have resulted in there being no need for an increase in membership fees.

The Committee recognise that as the majority of our members live many miles away from our monthly meeting place, in some cases across the water, their only benefit from membership is Insurance. This is one of the reasons why we have done our utmost to hold fees.

The two Farmer Parrs events both proved a success, with both rallies showing an increase in engine numbers over last year. Of particular interest were the three Hesford engines, featured as our club logo. It's gratifying to report that the event raised £806 for the North West Air Ambulance, an increase of almost £200 above last year’s effort. A big thank you to all who contributed and assisted from our Club, Fylde Country life, and Farmer Parrs.

Plans are already underway for next year, featuring the infamous Lister D In its centenary year, so get out that old "D" which has been gathering dust for years.

The Committee recognise that their function is to carry out the wishes of you, the members. At our monthly meetings we listen to members suggestions, but are aware that this represents a small proportion of our membership.

Hopefully everyone is aware of our Facebook page, and we would encourage members to communicate ideas and suggestions to either Committee members or generally on the page. It's good to see the page being used so often, and the rally reports and pictures are always interesting. Remember to keep an eye out for events and please give a "like" to any

of the contributions which catch your eye,

You can now pay directly into the club bank account, and there will no longer be a need to provide a stamped addressed envelope, irrespective of how you pay - effectively a price reduction.

We trust everyone enjoyed a successful years rallying, and trust that next year will be equally good.

Thanks to all of you for your support, and remember it's your club, please continue to be a part of it.

Your Committee