Summary Report - key points

Chairman's Report

• The Chairman, on behalf of the Trustees, reported on key events and issues in 2004.  He described 2004 as a year of 'settling down', with the new organisation and Managers now well established in their roles. The Society's head office, George Gray House was sold, closing a chapter in the history of the Society.

• Preliminary moves have been taken to explore ways of preserving some older chrysanthemum cultivars. Reading University have suggested 'freeze storage' of chrysanthemum material and a feasibility study will be carried out to determine the viability of this proposal.

• The Chairman also reported on the status of membership, sales of publications and activities undertaken to promote the Society. The Society achieved Gold Medal awards at Chelsea, Tatton Park and Malvern Autumn Show.

• The cost of National Shows was highlighted as a major component of Society expenditure.

Other AGM Business

• All Officers were returned unopposed.
  

• Roger Brownbridge, Brian James and Dorothy Spencer were successfully re-elected as Trustees.
  

• Sound Financial position was reported by Graham Barclay (Unrestricted funds) and Ian Moss (restricted funds).
  

• 2004 Accounts were unanimously approved by members present.
  

• Browns of Tamworth re-appointed as Auditor.
  

• Society's Gold Medal award presented to Syd Paine.
  

• Society's Silver medals presented to Rod Fox and Bill Bahn.
  

• Woolman Medal of Honour presented to Hazell Allen
  

• Ken Dear presented further details of the forthcoming International event, including classes for competition.
  

• Mike Higgins and Paul Barlow presented proposals for updating  Judging Rules for Reflexed blooms. A lively debate followed the presentation culminating in overwhelming support for change. This topic will now be carried forward by the Shows Committee.

• Tim Pierce presented a case for 'open-style' late intermediates.