The Last Gathering?
The 2008 Local Groups’ Conference has been announced under the somewhat Tolkeinesque title of The Last Gathering. There is a real fear that this could be the last time groups are able to come together in this way, unless they make a concerted effort to support it. As well as providing a useful forum to discuss issues of interest to affiliated groups, it’s also a chance to find out what other groups are doing and pick up ideas for your own group.
The conference will take place on the weekend of 12th-13th April 2008 in Bradwell Village Hall, which is situated opposite Milton Keynes Youth Hostel (see map below). Whilst Milton Keynes might not be everybody’s idea of a “proper” youth hostel location, it’s easy to get to by car or public transport which should help attract more delegates.
Each Group is entitled to send up to two delegates, and will need to complete and send in a booking form by 8th February in order to comply with YHA’s booking conditions. Unfortunately no funding is available from YHA for delegates’ expenses, but a number of booking options are available depending on what meals and accommodation are required.
The conference will include a number of presentations and workshops, the election of delegates to the YHA’s AGM, the presentation of prizes to this year’s President’s Awards winners, and the chance to discuss any motions presented to the conference. If any groups wish to table a motion, the deadline for doing so is 21st March 2008.
More information can be found in the provisional agenda and in the covering notes.
STOP PRESS: Alternative booking arrangements are currently being made following John Annett’s hospitalisation. Groups should wait for further instructions before reserving their place.