Just back from Peebles after a very enjoyable few days. Dumfries and the Howff were well represented . David B handed  over the chain of office  to incoming President Jim Shields and received many compliments for his excellent leadership in a difficult year. Great to see Jane Brown being elected JVP.

Super saleman Gordon J boosted shop sales to what must have been record levels - you couldn't get in until you had purchased at least a tea towel.

John L, Les B, David S and Gordon J made great contributions to Friday night's entertainment. David M and Neil J were miffed they didn't have the X factor and failed the auditions!! Leona Evans was the star of the show and seems to get better and better.

Hon Sec David has added to his vast repertoire of jokes with a tale about 2 parrots!! Try to avoid asking him to tell you about  it if you can!! Incidentally I have to report he arrived legless at breakfast on Saturday - or at least his spectacles did - collateral damage from the evening's festivities!!

Cameron Goodall joined the Howff table for dinner on Saturday and kept us all well entertained . A really nice young man and we can look forward to his visit at Hallo'ween. We can certainly save on the cost of a PA system!

Last year's conference in Aberdeen was excellent and this was every bit as good. I would recommend as many of us as possible to consider  next years visit to Harrogate.