Pang Valley hosted the 2022 Berkshire Area AGM on Saturday 26th November in the wonderful setting of Purley Barn. There was an excellent turnout from Pang Valley members and most of the other groups in Berkshire were represented. The two walks, led by Chris and Pete, went well and people returned to the hall for their packed lunch, supplemented by Pang Valley cakes and tea and coffee (well organised by Diana and her helpers). We heard an illuminating talk by Jeff Knott from RSPB about Red Kite Introduction in the Thames Valley. He explained the red kite’s history and demise in the 19th century before their successful reintroduction. The campaign to reintroduce them included a disturbing picture of a naked but strategically covered Chris Packham!
The formal AGM ratified those reports that had been produced. Unfortunately these were not distributed at the meeting, but were only on the Berkshire Area website. All the officers were elected unopposed, except for the Area secretary who had resigned. That post and that of the area footpath secretary remained unfilled, although a new secretary has subsequently volunteered. A new post of Area Vice Chair was filled by Pang Valley member Richard, and this should help drive forward area business. The meeting finished with a question and answer session with two Ramblers Trustees, who fielded questions mainly on risk assessments and Ramblers Head Office policy. The issues raised will be taken up at the next Area committee meeting.