Presidential Notes
by John Silman
MAY
Thursday 20th
An early start for a most interesting visit to 4
textile mills in the Golden Valley at Stroud in Gloucestershire.
All arranged by Andy and, to cap it all, driven by him in our usual
minibus.
Sunday 30th
Tony and I had yet another very busy day at our
member John Lovell’s Open Day at Petersfield.
This event seems to attract more people each year and this year the
visitors completely filled all the space
available. Each year John dedicates the
money raised to a particular cancer charity.
John, thanks yet again!
JUNE
Friday 4th
I spoke to Southern Water Retirees on the “History of
Milling” at Otterbourne, which they
seemed to enjoy.
Sunday 13th
Whilst attending a ruby wedding at The Montagu Arms
in Beaulieu, I took the opportunity to look in the windows of the tide Mill.
I was disappointed to find that it appears just as we had left it, after
cleaning out the debris of the roof
following the fire.
Monday 14th
Alison Stott and I spent a busy day cutting and
clearing weed from the head races of Whitchurch
Silk Mill. It’s really hard work
wearing chest waders and stumbling about trying not to fall over!!
Wednesday 16th
Spoke to the Southampton 41 Club on the “History of
the Postcard”. They kindly invited me to
dinner at the Yacht Club – and then I had to sing for my supper!
They also gave me a donation for H.M.G.
Many thanks 41.
Friday 25th
A delightful meeting of the group in fine weather at
Crux Easton. Most people brought food and
drink. The Wind Engine did not quite have
enough breeze to run continuously. Many
thanks to Lyn and Carol and of course John C. For their hospitality and thank
you all for coming.
Tony Yoward Manning the stand at
Lord's Farm Open Day
Saturday 26th
Milling at Longbridge.
Considerable trouble with youngsters removing and taking away the
“greedy” boards that we use to raise the level of the headrace.
We shall be glad when it’s not warm enough to encourage the children to
get into the water.
JULY
Wednesday 14th
I went with Mick Edgeworth to inspect Hockley and
Chase Mills before the visit of Sussex Mills Group on Wednesday next.
Wednesday 21st
I was at Hockley Mill in the afternoon in order to
help to answer questions about Hockley’s unusual geartrains.
We are not yet able to run the repaired wheel but hope to have it running
for National Heritage Weekend in September.
Saturday 24th
Margaret and I attended the morning session of the
Hampshire Water Festival at Staunton Country Park.
Plenty of people arriving to ask questions, but all seemed to have long
pockets and short arms!
