it now takes place on Sunday May 23rd between 1 o clock and 5 o clock (ish) at The Albert Hotel in Huddersfield. This is the same venue as the November 2003 Conference.

I tried to book a Manchester venue, but last times Conference location, the Seven Oaks and an additional suggestion no longer take bookings. Another pub I tried, The Waldorf do take bookings, but are not available on the 23rd, hopefully the November Conference can take place in Manchester.

A visit to a Chinese restaurant is planned to follow the Conference, hopefully the new Jumbo's in Huddersfield will be open by then.

Please note that all Committee positions are up for renewal: if anyone wishes to consider having a go at any of the Area positions, please let me know. We're always looking for new ideas and additional hands to help, especially with Area scale events. I'm particularly keen to have one or two General Committee Members on the Area Committee, so if anyone would like to organise a particular Area scale event, or get involved in the Area in a small way then I'd be glad to hear from you.

We'll be sending out a bulk posting this week which will include the agenda and minutes from the November Conference.

ANC (Annual National Conference)

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Janet Rintoul, Area Administrator for deputising for me on Saturday at the ANC and for driving up to Huddersfield and back to Coventry first thing on Sunday morning That's dedication!.

The NEC motions and Oxford & Coventry Group's motion were debated at the ANC, I'm sure you don't need me to tell you what this means for 18 Plus.

Inspire

Francis Wallington has asked me to mention the Inspire event, particularly as it's held in the North and that this year's main subject is Publicity, including use of the internet for Publicity, it should prove very useful.

Area scale events

Rothwell Group's Easter Bunk Barn Holiday was a very good event, we're sending an item to Plus News about it, I belive that Rothwell have booked the venue again for next year and will be again opening the event up to Groups in the Northern Area. The Derbyshire Peak District and Wirksworth are well worth a visit.

And Finally.......

Here's all my contact details, post, telephone, e-mail and even a fax number for thise who might want to send me a note by phone (you never know!).

John A Smith
Springfield
490 Manchester Road
Brierley Wood
Huddersfield
HD4 5BW