Page 38 - QARANC Vol 15 No 2 2017

36 QARANC THE GAZETTE
Millbank Branch
This has been another busy period for the Millbank Branch with new members joining us and various activities attended and in planning.
However, once again casting a shadow came the very sad news that Josephine Jones, a long-standing and supportive member and a past Chairperson had become very unwell during the first part of the year and died later in the spring. Then we heard news from Scotland that Sheila Scott, an ex-Matron of 217 General Hospital and previous Millbank member had also died. Finally, the sad news of the death of Anne Healey, a senior ex regular QA and a long-standing member of Millbank Branch. They will all be missed.
On 26 March fifty-six members, families and friends attended our Corps Day service at the chapel of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Our standard was proudly carried by Annette Bowden-Whisker, escorted by Sally Mears and Adele Rutledge. Following the service, we were fortunate to be able to enjoy a traditional curry lunch in the In-Pensioner’s Dining Room. The occasion seemed to be enjoyed by all and we hope to be able to use this venue for future occasions.
In some respects, for many members, the highlight of this period was the garden party at Bagshot Park. HQ have prepared an article, so suffice to say that nineteen members of Millbank attended and we were proud that our own Bettina Wood was selected to present flowers to the Colonel-in- Chief, HRH the Countess of Wessex.
Judy Cook Branch Secretary
Millbank Corps Day
Garden Party 2017
Millbank Branch
Annual General Meeting (AGM), talk and tea
On 15 July thirty-one members gathered at the Burfoot Court Room, Guy’s Hospital for this year’s AGM. This traditional meeting is held for reporting on Branch activities, updates from HQ, planning future events and electing a committee.
The AGM was followed by an informative and thought- provoking presentation by member Diane Robertson-Bell. Since retiring from the TA, Diane has worked for the past several years with Medecins Sans Frontieres. Her many
postings have included Syria, the Yemen, Somalia and Papua New Guinea. Each have had varying objectives and presented new and different challenges but in her own words “it is always the children who suffer”.
Her excellent talk was followed by an” Indulgent Tea” which was enjoyed by all.
Sally Mears
Member Millbank Branch