The group was founded in the spring of 1976 the appointed leader then was Leslie Batty the membership sprang to 100, subscriptions were 50p and the committee 6 strong. Bulletin number 4 informs us that Les Batty has moved to the Isle of Wight, to be replaced in March 1977 by Dr John Healey and a chap by the name of Gordon Smith has become 'acting' membership secretary.

 

September 1979 and Fred Lucas as treasurer is showing a donation to the RSPB of £550.

 

Issue number 12 of the newsletter announces the formation of the Fleet YOC group, leader David Buckler. The newsletter suddenly changes to an official RSPB headed paper with Trevor Gunton as Head of Development, the group membership now stands at 160.

 

By 1980 John has passed the reins to Gilbert Rowland, and by the fifth anniversary of the group, it is reported that a donation of £900 has been made to the RSPB, and our Gordon Smith has taken on the responsibility of distributing the newsletter. 1982 saw Gilbert hand over to Mike Philpot, the membership stood at 248 members and the subscription was £1.00. One of Gilbert's parting comments was "Fortunately we are part of a nation-wide organisation which goes from strength to strength in its bid to make us aware of our natural heritage.

 

Into 1990 and Mike has transferred the leadership to Chris Clark, under Chris's guidance the membership rose to a huge 370 and events such as the David Shepherd evening and the Simon King evening were massively successful.

 

1994 saw Chris retire and pass the leadership over to me, and 'well' the rest you know. By the way Gordon is still membership secretary. (I realise that I have missed lots of other names out, so thank you all, and apologies). As a reminder the group, with your support, has donated in excess of £55,000 since 1976