Presidential Handover

                                                Meeting of June 30, 2020.

The Club notched up another “first” at their now-weekly online Zoom meeting.

It’s never happened before. The installation of the new President took place – where else? – but in his back garden!

With the membership watching proceedings online, outgoing President John Fernie led the handover of responsibility and title to Jim Allison, with new President Elect Mike Dow also in attendance.

Naturally, the threesome followed strict guidelines and conducted the ceremony with 2-metre social distancing all round.

President Jim then had the singular honour of putting the chain of office around his own neck, to applause over the ether from the self-isolated company.

Prior to the handover, outgoing President John briefly related some of the highlights of what he termed “an unusual year in office”.

“It’s never a challenge when you have a good team around you. And the Club certainly has that, with a good blend of youth and experience driving us forward”, he said.

“Sadly, because of the pandemic we were unable to produce a great year like 2019. Well-attended and profitable events like Pluck-a-Duck at Craigtoun Park, the West Sands Sandcastle Competition and a hugely successful charity golf day at Kingsbarns were marvellous.

“I’d also say that our Burns Night in January was the best I have ever attended, as were a number of other fellowship events.”

Following the handover, new President Jim said it was an honour to take over the reins in such strange times. He also paid tribute to Isobel Clifford who was stepping down as Assistant Governor to be succeeded in the post by Ranald Barrie.

Said President Jim, “I welcome Mike Dow as President Elect and look forward to serving both the community and yourselves - members of a great Club.”.