Isobel Allan 

I would like to start my report on a sombre note. On 12 November 2007 the members of the Monday Club, along with many others, were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden illness and subsequent passing of Calum Cumming. The Monday Club was Calum’s brainchild and through his inspiration, enthusiasm and leadership the Monday Club continued to thrive and flourish for many years as a regular haven of friendship and fellowship for older members of the congregation. We miss his contributions, his personality and his wry sense of humour.

Throughout the year the membership of the Monday Club has remained steady, indeed it has increased. Through the eyes and camera lens of various visiting speakers we have enjoyed the changing seasons of our own Highland Region, walked, searched for and found rare flora in the high hills of the Pyrenees and Alps, sailed along the rivers of China and visited Canada and Alaska. We have heard of the plight of the children of Chenobyl and the wonderful work done by Blythswood in Romania and Albania and indeed throughout the world. We listened to the history of Stratton Dairy and until recently our daily milk delivery and we heard about multiculture and diversity in the Highland Region. And finally we can feel safe in our homes thanks to a talk from a representative of the Fire Service. (A free service which I can recommend.)

On alternate Mondays when there was no visiting speaker we discussed topics (occasionally sounding like candidates for Grumpy Old Persons) , reminisced, told anecdotes and laughed a lot. As one gentleman remarked only on Monday, “Where would we be without laughter?”

I would like to thank everyone who has contributed in any way to the success of the Monday Club during the year, visiting speakers, home-bakers, dishwashers and those who have helped with the setting up of the hall for meetings.

All are welcome at the Monday Club and I would be particularly pleased to hear from any volunteer speakers for next year.