I am pleased to present an interim report recording the events of the Circle from September 2020 to the present day.

We have lived through very strange times and much has changed in our lives. During lockdown I sadly reported to you the deaths of Ann Duffy, John Bonser, Christopher Howard and Nita and Peter Watkinson. Condolences were sent on behalf of the Anglo French Circle and donations made to appropriate charities. We will miss them all very much.

Christopher kindly bequeathed us a projector and screen, a sad but welcome reminder of him. A memorial was held for Christopher at Greyfriars in June and there were numerous tributes including one from us. The Friends of Castle Park have installed a bench with a dedication to him not far from the bandstand and overlooking lower Castle Park and all the trees that he loved.

In the summers of 2020 and 2021 we enjoyed getting together for a drink in Dr. Fabrizio Casales garden and we thank Fab very much for inviting us to use this lovely space.

These were the only two occasions when we met in person. Early in 2021 we commenced Zoom meetings and many thanks must be given to Jane Davidson for her help in organising this and for her work on the website.

Our first Zoom encounter was a social catch up. We then enjoyed talks from Julie Langevin, Ian Sydenham, Frank Gill, Stellar Sommerlad and a quiz courtesy of Florence Cooper. All of these were welcome and well received but of course in no way adequately replaced meeting together here at Christ Church.

I would also like to pay thanks to our Committee who all work so hard and cheerfully for the cause.

This is the third meeting of our current programme and we welcome ideas from you.

Do you know someone who would be happy to give us a talk or do you have any ideas for different events?

Please let us know how you would like our meetings to be structured.

The Committee will meet shortly to discuss future dates and events. This is not an easy task and so ideas and volunteers would be welcomed.

A full A.G.M. will take place on 4th May 2022 to which the Mayor, as our President, has been invited.