Lichfield Branch

From there we passed through a public park and continued our way along Church Walk, a broad pedestrianised street with an eclectic array of houses. Soon we were back near the ‘yards’ of Long Street and our starting point. Refreshment followed in the hotel. Due to our numbers, we were put in the Lady Godiva Room with its extended table, Tudor-style decor and pictures of the wives of Henry VII. Our pre-ordered food arrived promptly, and we were able to toast the new year in style.

Clive Walker

Donation to N.B. President

Some while ago the Branch had been left a legacy in the will of Malcolm Braine the renowned local boat builder and restorer (see obituary p9). The committee had long discussions about how to best spend this donation and in the end it was decided to donate the entire amount to the steam narrowboat President. On a bright and cold November day Sue and I went to the Black Country Living Museum (who own President) and presented a cheque to the Friends of President (who look after and run the boat). They were most grateful for the donation as they are in the process of replacing the boiler which is an expensive job. We were unable to get a picture in front of President as it was away being worked on, but it’s butty Kildare was a suitable substitute. Nick explained that as he was in “period costume” he wasn’t wearing a poppy as this was well before the tradition started. We also enjoyed a tour around the museum whilst we were there.