Welcome to the Southern Branch Web site, especially if you are a new Southern Branch member looking to see what the Branch does for you or you are a first time "non-member" visitor. I hope that you find the contents interesting and demonstrates Southern is very active. It is now seven years since the web site was re-launched with the help of our branch sponsors, The Stilwell Partnership, and in that time we have averaged 1000 "hits" per annum. We endeavour to keep it current but please bear with us should you be seeking something that might yet be inserted. Any problems, email the Branch Secretary who will be pleased to assist.

In accordance with the Institute's constitution, Branch Officers are elected from within the Committee when newly elected officer's term of office will start from the next Branch AGM. At our recent meeting, this function was carried out and I decided with considerable reluctance to stand down as Branch Chairman. After three years in this role, I feel it the right time to allow someone else to lead the Branch and bring new impetus. To say that I have enjoyed being Chairman would be an understatement. When I assumed Chairmanship I must admit to being apprehensive (there are other expressions to describe my emotions but apprehensive will do!) however the more I became involved the greater pleasure and gave me a good feeling, so you can understand my regrets at stepping down.

Being "the leader" of a progressive and highly active branch is very rewarding and I know that my successor, Sara Pegram, will soon get over any uncertainties she might have and enjoy her term of office. I wish her well and also express my sincere appreciation of the support of my Committee colleagues have given me. I will be remaining on committee and look forward to doing so for some time yet.

On the subject of the AGM, this is planned for Wednesday 23rd May (subject to final confirmation from the venue) when we hope to hold this at the Gatwick Avionics Museum which is adjacent to the western end of Gatwick Airport's Runway. That should be interesting; competing with the noise of jets opening up. Details will be released soon.

Regrettably, the event shown on the site, scheduled for the 15th April on LED signs has had to be postponed due to personal circumstances causing the speaker to be unavailable. We plan to hold this event later.

I mentioned in my previous message that it was my pleasure to have been able to present a donation of £700.00 to Chestnut Tree House on behalf of the Branch following our 2011 Wine & Wisdom evening. A report of the event is now on the Past Events page. As I said in my report, it was an inspiring visit that showed the depth of care shown by the staff towards their young charges.

Have a look at the Future Events page as some events are now confirmed and applications for places will soon be available. Some events, for safety and space at venue reasons are necessarily limited and we operate on a "first come first served" basis on those occasions. Otherwise, as ever, we try to keep the events free and will welcome guests of members.

Finally, and it is just a coincidence, IHE President Steve Spender's term of office also finishes this June and I would like to thank him for the support he has given the Branch in his Presidential role (OK, so he is a Southern Branch member and first from the Branch to be President) and we look forward to working with his successor, Richard Hayes.

Please support our various events and, if you are considering membership of a professional body, make that move now - you will not regret it.

Chris Stark Eng.Tech. MIHE. Branch Chairman