SCSSC AGM June 2005

On Friday 10th June 2005, about 25 southern based Stokies crammed into the upstairs room of the Rose & Crown pub in Southwark. This number included a few non-members who came along having seen the meeting advertised on the Oatcake messageboard, and three of them ended up 'signing up' at the end of the evening.

Kick off was delayed slightly due to crowd congestion at the food table, and when everyone had settled down Les stood up to start - and immediately his mobile phone rang! After the call was answered and the mirth had died down, we finally made a start!

We sped through the routine reports for the various officers quite quickly until we got to Norman Croucher, who confirmed that he was stepping down as Potters Monthly Editor. In his ‘farewell’ speech Norman gave us a potted history of SCFC over the ten or so years of his reign. It was fascinating and at times painful to be reminded of everything that has happened in that short time.

Norman’s service was rewarded with a token of our appreciation (left, presented by chairman Les Tuck). Whilst Norman may no longer have PM to occupy his time, we are hopeful that Stokie Ancient et al may find time to contribute to the website and magazine.

After a refreshment break (many thanks to Andrew Dobinson for helping out with the raffle tickets) the second half was spent debating the issue of replacing Potters Monthly and membership subscription rates. This is covered in more detail in a separate article elsewhere on this website. It was a lively and good natured discussion with many contributions from the floor.

In keeping with tradition, the raffle draw closed the meeting. Ticket sales were a great success, raising over £300 to boost club coffers, including £100 of advance postal sales. There were many prizes including a signed shirt, two signed balls, more shirts, a book and a free club rail trip! Winners included Steve Heath (below left), Andrew Dobinson, Keith McKenzie Ingle, Monica Hartland (below right), Geoff Rushton and Gary Willcox. Apologies to anyone I’ve forgotten. Monica kindly donated her prize back to the club (possibly after realising she had nowhere to put it?) and this is the ball that will be on offer in the prize draw open to members who join/renew before the start of the 2005/06 season.

Afterwards there was still plenty of time for socialising and having a good moan about happenings at Stoke City (and this was before the sacking of Tony Pulis!).

Neil Chadwick, 15 July 2005