March 1993

Mr Cassley deputised for Mr Macgregor who is on holiday and drinking “Canada dry”, and why not, he’s drunk most other countries dry. Letter from Dr Manley informing that the latest issue of “Library History” has now appeared containing the article re: Dalton Book Club. He hopes to forward some copies to the Club shortly. The President then raised the subject of inviting Arthur Bamford to rejoin the Club. Whilst he would not retain his previous seniority, he would retain his former seating arrangement and not be subject to being a steward. Members agreed to the proposal and Mr Travis is to write to Arthur regarding this.

December 1992

The President welcomed the return to the fold of Bill Hannah. Peter Leach presented the Club with whisky to celebrate his new contract with the B.B.C. working from home. It was also agreed he could write an article on the Book Club subject to liaison with Mr Boddy and final vetting by the Club President and members prior to publication. It was also agreed that Mr Phillipson should make arrangements for the Simpson Dinner at Chequers on Tuesday the 9th of February 1993. An enjoyable meeting was closed and the 25 members present then tucked into a lovely buffet.

September 1992

Bill Morgan on his retirement presented the Club with bottles of whisky and gin. Ladies night to be held at Glen Garth on the provisional date of 12th of November. The President had met with the Conservative Club Chairman and was told they were not wanting to be rid of us but they had a problem regarding the attitude of their steward. However they are hoping to improve the decor of the room. The President then read out a letter of resignation from Robert Hodgson over the issues raised on the wearing of ties at Book Club meetings which he took to be criticism of him and his mode of dress. After much discussion a unanimous vote was given that for the time being we do not accept the resignation. Mr Phillipson is to approach Mr Hodgson in an effort to persuade him to withdraw his resignation. Should this fail the Secretary is to write to Robert in a final attempt to resolve the matter. Jim Walton said if he was the unwitting cause of this resignation he would then consider resigning. This idea was turned down unanimously by the members who said no blame attached to him whatsoever.

July 1992

Mr Macgregor is absent, he has gone to Barcelona for the Olympics and Terry Braithwaite presumed he was for the high jump. Alan Taylor submitted the accounts and made mention of the fact that Bank charges were now being levied on the Book Club accounts. Mr Atkinson proposed acceptance of the annual accounts and also proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Taylor for his sterling work. The President raised the matter of a deficit on drinks money and because of rising prices it would seem that future whips will need to be in the region of £2. Mr Travis then raised the question of Club members wearing ties. After some discussion Mr Robinson said his personal opinion was that ties should be worn at Club meetings and that in summer months these and jackets could be removed at the discretion of the President. Several other members endorsed this view and no members spoke against the wearing of ties. Whilst there has been no hard and fast ruling laid down, the position has been left that the President if he feels it necessary at any future time, would speak to any member if he thought that members mode of dress was not appropriate for the monthly meeting. Vote for Peter Leach was unanimous for acceptance. Club members are each to receive a list of all current members showing their addresses and telephone numbers.

February 1991

Simpson Dinner to be at Chappels Restaurant on the 14th March. Only 17 present tonight. Mr Cassley presented the Club with bottles of whisky and gin to celebrate his retirement, which according to the President is now classed as a post of profit in order to obey the Club rules. On receiving the Club members good wishes and thanks for the spirits, Mr Cassley replied in one word – “Thanks”.