Henley Probus Club

THE 493rd meeting of Henley Probus Club was held at Badgemore Park Golf Club on January 9.

The chairman bid everyone best wishes for 2024 and then welcomed three visitors to the meeting.

The treasurer updated members on the club’s finances as of the end of 2023.

This was followed by updates on the forthcoming social events and speakers that are planned for the first half of this year.

Tony Brown, chairman-elect, summarised the current thinking on marking the club’s 500th meeting, which will take place in August.

Members’ views were sought on the content, structure and venue of the meeting.

The chairman introduced the guest speaker, David Barber, who is the King’s swan marker, having previously been the Queen’s swan marker for 30 years.

With the assistance of a slide presentation, David explained the history of swan marking over a thousand years and the development of swan upping, particularly on the River Thames.

He covered topics including how the birds’ nesting habits have changed, the effects of pollution on swans and the details of swan upping today.

He also talked about the cygnet registration process and the importance attached to the education of young people on the protection that is afforded swans.

After his presentation, David received warm appreciation from the members.

The chairman then closed the formal meeting and members gathered for drinks followed by lunch.

Henley Probus meets at Badgemore Park on the second Tuesday of each month, starting with an informal gathering of members and visitors for a discussion and coffee, with the formal meeting commencing at 11.30am followed by a lunch.

If anyone is interested in joining the club, please call Roger Griffiths, our membership secretary, on (01491) 575137 or email regriffiths44@gmail.com For more information about the club, visit http://henleymensprobus.
org.uk

Roger Roberts