Dear All,

I am writing to let you all know that, for personal reasons, I am resigning as Chairman of the Association, with effect from the end of this month. I am very conscious that this will cause difficulties as, according to the rules, a new chairman will probably not be able to be voted in before the next AGM. Our President, Mark Pemberton, is looking at the way in which/if an inter regnum arrangement can be put in place until that time, but as this is a unprecedented situation it is not easy. I particularly regret that this will, amongst other things, leave the Association without a representative on the Trust Board, although Mark is also chairman of that body and may be able to speak on our behalf.

I am sorry that I have left writing to you until this very late hour. I was hoping that I would be able to tell you what arrangement are to be made, but this has not been possible yet.

I would be grateful if you, as the regional representatives, could cascade this information to the branches.

It has been a great privilege to be Chairman of the Association. Thank you all for your efforts, counsel and friendship. It goes without saying, but I will say it anyway, I wish the Association all the best for the future.

Regards,

Barry.

In Arduis Fidelis