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02 CONTENTSNEwSWelcome...to the spring editionof The Forester,incorporating Miscellany.We’re always keen toinclude as many members as possiblein the magazine, so I hope you enjoyour interviews with a few dedicatedForesters grandparents and with asensible young saver. And, with springin the air, why not give your financesa good clearout, or get out into thegarden to try and grow your ownvegetables. Good luck, and I hope youenjoy the longer, lighter days!New taxyear,new wayto applyKevin DannChief Executive, Foresters Friendly Society0826062304 Why we value yourfeedback and opinions06 Grandparents talkabout their families’ futures08 Which savingsaccount is best for you?11 Miscellany, themembers’ magazine23 The stories behind theSociety’s branch names24 Give your finances agood spring clean26 The benefits ofgrowing your own30 Foresters’ productdirectoryThe Forester, incorporating Miscellany,is produced for Foresters FriendlySociety by Specialist Publications.For Foresters: MarketingDirector: Neil Armitage; MarketingManager: Sally Denning; Address:Foresters Friendly Society, ForestersHouse, 29-33 Shirley Road, SouthamptonSO15 3EW; Website: www.forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk.Authorised and regulated by the Financial ServicesAuthority. Incorporated Friendly Society no 511F, FSARegistration no 110029.For sPeCIALIst: editor: Anna Kierstan; Group Arteditor: Emily Selwood; Picture researcher: SineadMillea; Production: Sam Binding; Promotions: GabrielaStaniszewska; Address: Specialist Publications, CliftonHeights, Triangle West, Bristol BS8 1EJ; tel: 0117 925 1696;Website: www.specialistuk.com© Specialist Publications UK Ltd 2010ARE you oN ToPoF youR CREDIT?One in five Brits nowhas three or more creditcards, the comparisonwebsite www.moneysupermarket.com says.Over 14 million peoplein the UK use theircredit card for day-todayliving, the researchreveals. People over 70have more credit cardsthan any other agegroup, with 27 per centowning more than two.If you need anyadvice on how to keepon top of credit, callthe Consumer CreditCounselling Service on0800 138 1111.Congratulations toMr G Stickley, who wonEcclesiastical’s prizedraw of £500 Marks& Spencer vouchers(featured in The ForesterSpring 2009 issue). Foryour chance to win thisyear’s prize draw, simplyfill in the insert enclosedwith this magazine.Spring securitySpring is here, and gardening season is onceagain upon us – which also, unfortunately,means an increased risk of theft from gardensand sheds. Here are a few tips on how you cankeep your garden secure:• Lock tools away once you have finishedworking with them• Ensure you have good locks on your shedand garage• Invest in quality fences and stout garden gates• Don’t place expensive pots, statues or otheritems close to the front fence• Use common sense and take basic securitymeasures, as with your home.Many insurers now include gardensin their standard cover. But if you takeout home insurance with Ecclesiastical,you’ll receive cover that also protectsyour trees, shrubs and plants. For moreinformation call 0800 917 4134 or visitwww.ecclesiastical.com/foresters.

NEwS 036th April isn’t only the start of a new taxyear – from then on you can also applyfor any Foresters products online. Justfollow these five easy steps:1 Visit www.forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk2 From the list on the right-hand side ofthe homepage, click on what productyou’d like to apply for, for example, ‘ISA’3 Click on ‘Apply online Now’4 Answer all the questions, which willinclude what your contact details areand how much you’d like to invest5 Click ‘Submit’, and your request will besent directly to Foresters.Did youknow?our 50+ Life Cover letsyou name a beneficiaryour life insurance policy for 50 to80 year olds lets you nominate onebeneficiary who will get a lump-sumcash payout of up to £5,000 on theevent of your death. the moneywill be paid out immediately,in their name.ISA limit now£10,200Don’t forget that from 6th Aprileveryone can invest up to£10,200 a year in an IndividualSavings Account (ISA). Thisamount can either all beinvested in stocks and shares,or in a mix of both sharesand cash. You can invest upto £5,100 in a Cash ISA in anyone year. To read more aboutForesters’ Stocks and Shares ISAand our other savings accounts,turn to our savings guide on page 8.Money made clearerThe Financial Services Authority haslaunched a free guidance serviceaimed to help you make confident,informed financial decisions andmake the most of your money.Money Made Clear offers a helpline(0300 500 5000), a useful website(www.moneymadeclear.fsa.gov.uk) and face-to-faceadvice services, via the likes of the Citizens Advice Bureauand Age Uk (formerly Age Concern and help the Aged).The aim is to offer impartial guidance on everything todo with personal finance, tailored to individuals’ needs.Images: Corbis/PhotolibrayNews in briefChANGES TO PENSION RULESFrom 6th April, the basic state pensionincreases from £95.25 a week to £97.65, andcouple’s pensions rise from£152.30 to £156.15. To get thefull basic state pension, you’llnow only need 30 qualifyingyears of National Insurancecontributions, compared to theprevious 44 years for men and39 years for women.Uk IS ‘FINdERS kEEPERS’ NATIONThe financial squeeze is testing generositylevels in the Uk, a study by Santanderreveals. half of those surveyed said if theyfound £100 cash on the street with no onearound, they would keep it forthemselves – a rise of 13per cent from 2008. Justone in 20 said they wouldgive the money to charity,and almost two thirdssaid they’d feel no guilt inholding on to the cash.wEEkLy hOUSEhOLd SPENd RISESUk households spent an average of £471a week in 2008, up from £459 in 2007,the Office for National Statistics says.weekly spend on food and non-alcoholicdrinks went up to an average of £50.70,compared to £48.10 in 2007, the annualFamily Spending report reveals, andexpenditure on electricity and gas rosefrom £17.20 to £18.90.Transport is the mostexpensive single categoryfor Uk households, with theaverage spend going upfrom £61.70 a week in 2007to £63.40 in 2008.BABy ShOw TICkETSwe’re showing our children’sWIN savings accounts again at TheBaby Show at the BirminghamNEC on 21st to 23rd May, and we havetwo tickets to give away tothe first person who gets intouch with us at The Forestermagazine. The first personto email their name andaddress to theforester@forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk will win the tickets.

04 foresters facesfriendly benefitsGrant Streader, Head of Policy Administration at Foresters, reveals what he lovesabout working for the Society and why the members always come firstone thing I love about workingat Foresters is the amountof contact we have withour members. As a mutual society,Foresters is owned by you, after all, soevery operational decision that is madehas your interests as the main priority.It is mine and my team’s responsibility tomake sure that you remain happy ownersof Foresters Friendly Society by providingyou with the best service possible. Thiscovers all areas of your membership – so ifyou have any questions, for example, aboutany policies you may hold with us, anyextra benefits we offer, or even what socialactivities are going on, we can help you.Keeping you updatedIt’s our job to make sure that all theinformation we have about you and anypolicies you have with us is kept as securelyas possible. All data is stored on our internalsystem, which is kept on our secure internalservers, and is backed up on a daily basis.Only staff that require information on ourmembership data have access to it.When it comes to your policy,once a year we may send you adetailed breakdown of how ithas performed over the past12 months. However, youcan contact us at any timethroughout the year to find outhow things are going, whatlevel of benefits you may haveand what bonuses (if any)have been accrued to date.We’re always lookingto improve our service toyou, and that’s why we’recurrently piloting payingclaims via BACS credit.This reduces costs forboth you and the Society,and also means the moneyis paid to you quicker.Steven Stringer Photography“Our benevolentfunds paid out morethan £190,000 tomembers in 2009”Truly benevolentAnother thing that always inspires me aboutForesters is its role in assisting members inneed. I’m part of the Foresters BenevolenceWorking Group, which was set up to reviewall our benevolent activities to make surethey remain relevant and that they get tothe members who need help the most. Ourbenevolent funds paid out over £192,400to members in 2009.At present we offer four discretionaryfunds. The War Memorial Benevolent fundis for children with disabled parents or noparents at all, those with special needs ora disability, and those who act as carers.The 150th Anniversary Educational Awardfund provides a grant to members startinghigher education or an apprenticeship. TheConvalescent Home fund supports theconvalescent home in Bridlington and thesheltered housing scheme in Bexleyheath,and the High Court Relief fund helpsmembers in distressed circumstances.Each fund operates slightly differently but,subject to specific criteria, they are open toall members. The best way to get the ballrolling is to ask your branch secretary foran application form – or contact my teamon 0845 634 4480 for more information.Other benefitsWe also offer other member benefitsincluding illness and disability support,and a 24-hour advice line. But we’realways looking for new ones so wecan help you as much as possible.Brand new and exclusive servicescoming soon will include Will writing,probate broking and probate prepaymentservices.If you have any ideas about whatother services could be of help to youand fellow members, then please get intouch. After all, you own the Society, soyour opinion really counts.Please note that membership benefits arenot regulated by the FSA.

foresters frIeNDs 05Are you, or do you know ofsomeone, not online yet?The world wide web offers arealm of new opportunities,and it’s easier to get onlinethan you may think...a wholenewworldImage: Gettyore than two thirds ofMpeople in the UK nowmake purchases online,and over half use the internetto manage their finances, saythe latest figures from Get SafeOnline. And use of the worldwide web for social purposescontinues to rocket – for instance,300 million people around theglobe now use the Facebooknetworking website.It’s fair to say the internet opensup a whole new world of possibilities.With a few clicks of a mouse, you cankeep in touch with faraway friends orfamily members, research the bestprices for anything from cardigans tocar insurance, and search through awealth of news and information forwhatever interests you.Millions still not onlineHowever, 30 per cent of UK homesdon’t have any direct access to theinternet, according to the Office forNational Statistics. And, it estimates,10.2 million British people have stillnever even been on the internet.But getting online needn’t be eitherintimidating or expensive. Thereare many places that offer internetaccess without anyone having tofork out for theirown computer orinternet account.Most local libraries, for example, havecomputers with internet access whichcan be booked for half-hour andhourly sessions.the online Basics courseEarlier this year the Government launcheda training course to help get everyoneonline. ‘Online Basics’ is a free coursethat covers five short modules, includinghow to use a mouse and keyboard, howto email, how to search for informationand how to stay safe online.If you, or someone else you know,would be interested in signing up for thecourse, you can do it at a local UK onlinecentre. There are more than 6,000 ofthese around the country, on high streets,in libraries and community centres –some are even on buses! They all haveextremely helpful staff and volunteers onhand to give you help with your course,and they can also advise you on how toensure you stay safe online at all times.To find out where your nearest UK onlinecentre is, call 0800 771 234.Or why not get started now? If youknow someone with a computer andinternet account, ask whether you canuse it for half an hour. Then try out thesewebsites for more information on how toget online yourself. Happy surfing!www.bbc.co.uk/webwisewww.myguide.gov.ukwww.onlinebasics.co.ukwww.ukonlinecentres.comHow to personalise yourforesters friends profilepage – and keep it safeWhether you just want friends tosee your profile page, or if you onlywant to be emailed with particularupdates, the Foresters Friends websitelets you be in total control. Followour guide on how to set up yourpersonal preferences:1. Log on to www.forestersfriends.co.uk2. on your profile page, click on ‘Editmy profile’3. to add a photo, select ‘edit MyProfile Picture’. You can then add aphoto of yourself4. to change your security details,such as your password or who canaccess your profile page, click on ‘editMy account Details’. click on ‘Defaultaccess’ and you can then choose whocan see your page – only your friends,only foresters friends members, oranyone on the web5. to receive notifications whensomeone has sent you a message orwants to be your friend, click on ‘editMy Notification settings’6. for updates onwhen new contentis added to a groupthat you’re a memberof, choose ‘edit MyGroup Notificationsettings’.TALK TO USWhat wouldyou like to see in theforester magazine?Join our forum onwww.forestersfriends.co.uk and let us knowyour ideas

06 CHILDREN’S SAVINGSMany grandparentsare in the fortunateposition of havinga little spare cashavailable for theirgrandchildren’s future– often in contrast tothe parents, who areusually concernedwith more immediatedemands on theirmoney. We talk tomembers who haveinvested in theirgrandchildren’s futurefinancial securityThe nextgenerationPhotography: Jonathan Turner“He’ll need it for startingout in his own life”Joan Lowe, a member from the Halifax area,puts away money every month into her threeyear-oldgrandson Finlay’s Ethical Child TrustFund with Foresters.“With the cost of living only getting moreexpensive, it’s so important to think of a child’s future.The fact that the money I invest is locked away untilFinlay turns 18 means he’ll get it when he may needit the most, when he’s starting out in his own life.”

CompETITIoN 07Joan, in fact, has nine grandchildren and onegreat-grandchild, and she puts money away everymonth into each of their Foresters savingsaccounts. “I’d like to think that they’llspend it on university or somethinguseful, but in the end it’s up tothem,” she says.There’s another grandchildon the way, due in June, soit looks like Joan will bepretty busy for years to come– an extremely dedicatedForesters grandparent!“I hope the moneywill go towardsuniversity”David Watkins’sgranddaughter Mirandahas recently celebratedher ninth birthday, and herdoting grandpa has highhopes for her.Each month Davidcontributes to Miranda’schild savings account withForesters, and she will receivethe lump sum when she turns18. “There’s no doubt it willbe an expensive time for herwhen she reaches this age,and I hope the money willhelp towards her going touniversity,” says David.“I chose to open Mirandaa savings account withForesters because I havealways been pleased with myown Foresters accounts. Andthe fact that the Society couldalso possibly help with itsEducational Award fund isan added comfort,” he adds.“Miranda really is the appleof my eye, and it means a lotto invest as much as I can inher future.”Invest in the futureFind out more about how oursavings accounts can give children amore secure financial future08000 214 523www.forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukSee the directory on page 30WIN!A luxurious two-night stayfor two at Holbeck GhyllCountry House Hotel,overlooking Lake WindermereHolbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel is one ofthe Lake District’s finest luxury hotels, boastingbreathtaking views over Lake Windermere andthe Lakeland Fells.The hotel insists on the highest levels ofcomfort and service to ensure everyone’s stay isas memorable as possible. Each room featuresEgyptian cotton sheets, satellite TV and DVD/CD players, while its michelin star restaurantis recognised as one of the best in the country,ranked 23rd in the UK Good Food Guide. And, forthose who want a bit of pampering, a range oftreatments are available in its relaxing health spa.We’re offering you the chance to win a fabuloustwo-night break for two at this wonderful hotel,including dinner in the restaurant on each evening.You can choose to stay from Sunday to Thursdayinclusive, excluding bank holidays and before 31stoctober 2010, subject to availability.All you have to do to be in with a chance is visitthe hotel’s website at www.holbeckghyll.comto answer this question: For how many years hasHolbeck Ghyll retained its Michelin star?Send in your answer, along with your contactdetails, by 31st May to ‘Foresters Lake Districthotel competition’, Specialist, Clifton Heights,Triangle West, Bristol BS8 1EJ or email us attheforester@forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk.See the back page for full terms and conditions.www.holbeckghyll.comwww.chicretreats.com

08 a guide to saViNgsstudies showthat more peopleare planning tosave this yearto improve theirfamily’s financialfuture. But howdo you knowwhich is the rightsavings accountfor you? Followour guide to findout more...Saving forthe futureImage: Photolibrary

a guide to saViNgs 09ou never know what’s around the corner.YSo it’s important to think about savingfor the future, even though putting moneyaside into a savings account may mean you haveless money to spend in the present.Perhaps encouraged by recent reports of afinancial upturn, we’re apparently becoming moreconfident about our ability to save more. Over aquarter of the population (27 per cent) say they aremore likely to save money in the next 12 months thanthey were last year, according to recent research byNational Savings & Investments.Before you open a savings account though, it paysto consider exactly what you want from it and how youwant to save. For example, would you prefer to put afixed amount of money aside each month or put a lumpsum away for a longer period of time? Follow our guideto Foresters’ range of savings options to see whichones might suit you the best, and how we can help.tax-free savingsOne of the best ways to get a good return is to choosean account where you don’t have to pay tax. Everyoneover the age of 16 can open an Individual SavingsAccount (ISA), which is free of Income Tax andCapital Gains Tax. You also don’t need to declare yourISA on your tax return.The new ISA allowances have increased to£10,200 a year. This can either all be invested instocks and shares, or some of the allowance can bein shares and some in cash. Up to half of the allowance(£5,100) can be saved in cash in any one year. Yourpartner can also have their own ISA, so youcould both benefit from the growthpotential and tax advantages.With Foresters’ Stocks andShares ISA, you can contributeregular amounts from £30 permonth, or invest a one-offlump sum of at least £250.Or, as long as you don’tgo over your £10,200allowance in any one taxyear, you can invest acombination of both.There are no timerestrictions on how longyou can keep your moneyin an ISA, but these typesof savings accounts arebest viewed as a long-terminvestment, which you should aimto keep for at least five years or more.You can cash-in your ISA whenever you want, butbe aware that with a Stocks and Shares ISA it’s notpossible to predict the exact amount of money thatyou’ll get back. This sum will depend on a number offactors, including how much money you save and howlong you save for. You may not get back the amountof your original investment. We do not currently offer aCash ISA, which provides easy access to your money.Saving for something specialWeddings, a special holiday, that long-dreamed ofextension – if you want to save up for something bigthen one of the best options is to put a regular sum ofmoney aside into a savings account.Many of these accounts are available, but the benefitof Foresters’ Tax Exempt Savings Plan (TESP) is thatit offers extra tax advantages. You choose a fixed termof between 10 and 25 years, pay a monthly premiumof just £25 throughout your chosen period, and thecash lump sum you eventually receive will be free ofIncome Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Only a friendlysociety like Foresters can offer this sort of accountthrough a regular premium savings plan.As long as you pay all your monthly premiumsin the chosen period, you’ll receive a guaranteedminimum cash amount, which will not be less thanthe amount you’ve paid in. However, it’s importantthat you continue your monthly payments for yourchosen period of years – if you don’t, you could losethe tax advantages of the plan and be liable to tax onany of the gains made on the investment. You mayalso risk losing some or all of the contributions paid.Plus, remember that inflation may reduce whatyou can buy in the future with the fund.Foresters’ TESP is available toanyone aged 16 and over, andthere is no upper age limit.Importantly, you can havea TESP in addition toother tax-efficient plans,including an ISA.35%of UK adults who alreadyhave savings are aiming tosave even more this yearA recent survey by Foresters Friendly Societyreveals that more than a third of adults planto consciously save even more to boost theirfinancial security. Don’t forget that if youinvest in a mutual society like Forestersthere are no shareholders to pay, andtaking care of our members is ourguiding principle, as well asproviding a safe place foryour savings.Lump suminvestmentsIf you have a lump sumof money that you’d liketo invest, a Bond couldbe a good choice.There are no timerestrictions on how longyou can keep your money ina Bond, but it’s best to open thissort of account with a long-term

10 a guide to saViNgsvision – for at least five or more years – togain the full benefit. Bonds provide anopportunity to achieve potential long-termgrowth because they allow your moneyto grow free of any immediate liability tobasic rate Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax.Once you have opened a Bond, regularcontributions and additional lump sum topupsto it are not allowed.With the Foresters Bond, you caninvest from between £1,000 to £50,000.Although you can’t pay any more moneyinto it, you are allowed to make partialwithdrawals of at least £250, provided thevalue remaining in the Bond doesn’t fallbelow £250. You can also make regularwithdrawals, as long as its value doesn’tfall below £5,000.However, it’s not possible to predicthow much money you’ll get back fromyour Bond because this depends ona range of factors, such as how muchmoney you invest and how long you keepit for. It’s important to note that you maynot get back the amount of your originalinvestment, and any withdrawals you makecould have tax implications depending onyour individual circumstances.saving for childrenIt’s never too soon to start saving for achild’s future. Raising a child from birth tothe age of 21 can cost around £201,809,according to the annual Cost of a ChildSurvey, and the most expensive agesare between 19 and 21, with an averageannual cost of around £13,677.So imagine being able to providethem with a useful cash payment aroundthe time they start university, or to helpfund a gap year, buy a first car or puta deposit on a flat (but remember thatinflation may reduce what the child canbuy with the fund in the future).Foresters’ Child Tax Exempt SavingsPlan (CTESP) offers all the benefits ofthe adult TESP, but it lets you invest themoney on behalf of a child. It then paysthem a cash lump sum, free of CapitalGains Tax and Income Tax, from the ageof 16 onwards.You can decide for how long you wantto contribute to the plan, from between10 and 25 years, and when the child willreceive the money. All you need to do iscontribute £25 a month for the chosen termand the child will get at least the guaranteedmaturity amount. Again, only a friendlysociety like Foresters can offer these taxadvantages through a regular savings plan.Tax rules may change and will dependon individual circumstances for all of theproducts mentioned in this article. Wedo not offer financial advice; if you haveany doubts about the suitability of any ofthese, or other, products then you shouldcontact a financial adviser, who maycharge for their advice.Image: PhotolibraryA bright outlookGemma Lane, a beautician fromHythe in the New Forest, opened aTax Exempt Savings Plan (TESP) withForesters Friendly Society last year.“I’d had savings accounts before,mainly online, but I always usedto end up taking my money out ofthem soon after I put it in,” saysGemma, 29. “With the TESP I can put aside money eachPhotography: John Enochmonth that will be locked away, and there will be no taxcharged on the interest.”Gemma chose to invest in the TESP for a fixed termof 15 years. “Who knowswhat I will be doing in15 years’ time, butit’s nice to knowthere will be alump sum ofcash waitingfor me!”Future proofinginvest in your future with Foresters’isa, tax exempt savings Plan, Bondor Child tax exempt savings Plan08000 214 523www.forestersfriendlysociety.co.uksee the directory on page 30

MiscellanyAll about you – for youSpring 2010April 2008THAMES VALLEYA fewof ourfavouritethingsThe final of the ThamesValley area’s ‘My FavouriteThings’ photographiccompetition took place at theSonning Golf Club near Reading.More than 70 members, includingHigh Chief Ranger Jim Launchburyand his wife Janet, enjoyed anexcellent lunch and voted for theirfavourite pictures.Paul Sedwards won first prize forhis picture of bluebells in the WestWoods. Janet Harral came secondfor her picture of a reflection inLodore, and Anne Stammers camethird for her photograph of a beeand a flower. Entry fees of £64 werecollected and donated to the areacharity, Helen and Douglas House,which is based in Oxford andprovides hospice care for children.Entry forms and rules for thisyear’s competition can be obtainedby emailing Court5044@tiscali.co.uk, or contacting Chris Harropat 24 Beresford Avenue, Aylesbury,Bucks HP19 9RU. It is sponsoredby Court No 2028 and supportedby Courts No 4961 and 5044.Chris Harrop (far left) and JimLaunchbury (far right) with thetrio and their winning picturesAreA news & Activities P12-18 cOOKinG witH cArMen P18 letters P19 MeMber pOrtrAits P20 diAry dAtes P21-22

Area newsSouthWITH TEN-PIN BOWLING, LOTS OF FUNDRAISING, A PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITIONAND SOME VERY ENJOYABLE LUNCHEONS, IT WAS A BUSY START TO THE YEARSoUTHErN HomE CoUNTiESIcy insideand out!The area trip to this year’sHoliday on Ice show at theBrighton Centre in Januarywas one of two parts.It started well, with a50 per cent increase innumbers, so an extra coachwas booked.Then down came thesnow and there was moreice outside the theatrethan in! As a result, one ofthe groups rescheduledtheir tickets to later in themonth. Although the seatswere not as good, at leasteveryone got to see awonderful show.If you get a chance tosee it at a theatre near you,make sure you don’t miss it.The Holiday on Iceshow – a great success,despite the weather!Ten-pin bowling – up for the challenge?Having read Miscellany avidly, the Southern Home Counties committeerealised that the area was missing out. Ten-pin bowling appeared to be apopular pastime for many Foresters... so Trudy Weller booked three lanesat the Hollywood Bowl in Crawley.Sixteen members took part, and it’s fair to say the scores variedwidely, with Basil winning the top prize and Lilly winning the juniorcompetition. Meanwhile Julie twice managed to send the ballbackwards into the crowd, and other adults, whose names wewon’t mention for fear of embarrassment,bowled with the side runners up!However, many membersplayed so well they werewondering if other areaswere good enough to take onthe Southern Home Countiesbowling team? Email rbourne@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukif you’re up for the challenge!HANTS & SUSSEXIn good companyMembers and friendsof Court ‘Bosmere’got together at theHalf Moon in Sheetfor lunch.Fifty-eight peopleattended, includingChief Ranger ShirleyYalden and HighChief Ranger JimLaunchbury. Shirleygave Jim a chequefor his appeal forthe MS Society,and a raffle raised£150 for Shirley’scharity appeal forRowans Hospice.Everyone had avery enjoyable lunch,and Court ‘Bosmere’would especiallylike to thank allthe visitors from theother branches fortheir support.View and post morephotos of these andother events onForesters Friends atwww.forestersfriends.co.uk12 Spring 2010 Miscellany

Area newsTHAmES VAllEyDraw for Foresters plateThe Thames Valley area is givingyou the opportunity to win a one-offwooden plate, turned from Englishsycamore with the Society emblemembedded in the centre, for a £1donation to the High Chief Ranger’sAppeal for the MS Society.A draw for the plate, which wascreated by George Launchbury, willtake placeat the 2010High Court.To enter,call BarryToomeyon 01491576 519 oremail barry@toomey.co.uk.The FunkyTownMonkeysCourt ‘Centenary’No 2880 inHigh Wycombesponsored ateam in the BucksNew UniversityApprenticeChallenge.The challengeThe enterprisingyoung team withChris Harropis for teams of students from the university to formand run, for a short time, a business selling items around thetown. The team called themselves the Funky Town Monkeys, andalthough they didn’t win, they made a gallant effort.The team are pictured here with the Chief Ranger Chris Harrop,just after the draw had taken place to decide which team waspaired with which sponsor.WESSEXFreshwater photography exhibitionCourt ‘Island Foresters’ No 1821 held a photographic exhibition by Isle ofWight wildlife photographer Paul Blackley, atSandpipers Hotel in Freshwater at the end ofMarch. A variety of items, including mountedprints and a book about the island’s redsquirrel, were on sale. Paul, an award-winningphotographer, generously donated some of theproceeds of each sale to the MS Society.For more of Paul’s work, visit his websiteat www.wightlifephotography.co.uk.Members also visited the Freshwaterlifeboat station and shop and were takenon a tour of the station. Each year Court‘Island Foresters’ supports its localinshore lifeboats with an annual donation.Three examplesof Paul’s brilliantwildlife photographyLunch at Northwood HouseSeventy-seven members and guests of Court ‘IslandForesters’ No 1821 enjoyed a delicious five-courselunch at Northwood House in Cowes. After the feast,everyone was entertained by the group Wight Satin.A total of £262.16 was raised during the day, all inaid of the High Chief Ranger’s appeal for the MultipleSclerosis Society. As usual the raffle table washeaving under the strain – thank you to everyoneinvolved for their generous donations.Jack PlaceIt is with a great deal of sadness that the Wessex arearecords the death of Jack Place. A traditional Forester,Jack was a member of Courts ‘Morant’ and ‘Yelverton’,a past member of the District Committee of Managementand a Regional Chief Ranger. He always enjoyed hisdelegate duties at High Court. Our thoughts and prayersare with Una and the family at this very sad time as theymourn a husband, father and grandfather. We shall allmiss him as a dedicated Forester.Miscellany Spring 2010 13

Area newsEasta special birthday, a spectacular on ice and a successful dinnerdance are just some of the things members have been involved inEast anglia southSummer activitiesCourt No 3658 has sponsored two localstudents to go to Tanzania, where they willhelp in an orphanage and climb Kilimanjaro.The branch hopes to invite them to a lunchin August to talk about their trip.Members of Court No 4174 took part ina local run for Sport Relief, while othersin the area are doing a sponsored slim –well done to everyone!Les BeckettThe area has lost an oldstalwart with the passingof Les Beckett. Les’s pastroles include Chief Rangerof Court ‘Pride of Walton’and trustee of the Ipswichand East Anglia district.We send our deepestcondolences to his family.‘Victory’ dance for members and friendsCourt ‘Victory’s well-attended annual dinner dancewas a great success. The principal guest wasCheryl Eagleson, non-executive director of theBoard, and her husband John. After a lovely mealand speeches, the dancing began to Melodybeats,and a raffle raised £327 for Help for Heroes.East MidlandsHappy birthdayOld OakCourt ‘Old Oak’celebrated its 150thanniversarylast year.Each branchmemberwas given acheque for £50,and a celebratorycharity dinner dancewas held at the Walkers Stadium inLeicester. A cheque was presentedto High Chief Ranger Jim Launchburyfor his charity appeal for the MultipleSclerosis Society. A further chequefor £2,000 was presented to JimSuttleworth, Treasurer of LeicestershireMotor Neurone Disease Association.East anglia noRthHoliday on IceCourt ‘Eye of Providence’organised another visit tothe Holiday on Ice showat the East of EnglandShowground in February.The performersentertained all with theirAn entertainingday out for allwonderful ice dancing and acrobatics, taking everyoneon a stunning voyage from East to West, whichincluded a Chinese firework festival and a NativeAmerican powwow – all in all a marvellous spectacular.Marvellous muffinsThe sun shone brightly at Cotton End’s villageshow, where local Foresters from Court ‘Unity’had a stall selling homemade cakes and jamsto raise money for Alzheimers. They raised over£70, and according to Julie Boscher, the muffinswere particularly popular. With savoury flavourssuch as courgette and spring onion and sweetones including nectarine, we’re not surprised!Members write inRosalyn Morris, Secretary of Court ‘Unity’ No 4893,would like to thank her branch members who havewritten in. Here’s some of what they have to say:“I’d like to say a bigthank you for myeducational granttowards my collegeexpenses.” AC,Kempston, Bedford“I look forward toreceiving TheForester magazineand reading aboutwhat other branchesare doing.” TPH,Shawbury, Shrewsbury“We had a most enjoyableand restful time at theconvalescent home. Thestaff were very friendlyand helpful, plus weenjoyed the companyof other guests.” L & DB,Wilstead, Bedford“I am proud to bea life member ofCourt ‘Unity’.” WAD,a Forester for over75 years, Baschurch,Shrewsbury14 Spring 2010 Miscellany

Area newsScotland & Northmembers have been raising money for the ms society, partaKing inQuiZZes and valentine’s parties and can looK forWard to a trip abroadnoRth WEstERnA specialeveningOver 70 members andfriends attended theNorth Western galadinner at the DavenportPark Hotel, Stockport,raising money for theMS Society.The proceeds of theevening amounted to£1,000 as a result of the tremendousenthusiasm of all concerned.Everyone was entertained bythe Tom Jones tribute singer IanAnthony, remembered for hisoutstanding performance at Stokeon-Trentin March last year.The evening was also a cause for celebrationfor Mike and Pat O’Connor on the occasionof their golden wedding anniversary – manycongratulations to them!The Society has its own largepresentation cheques, which are freeon request from the Court helpdesk.scottish suPPoRt gRouPL-R: Janet and JimLaunchbury, with ElizabethWild and David Watkins –and a big cheque!Summer trip to AmsterdamThe Scottish area is arranging a two-night mini-cruise to Amsterdam in June.Members will depart at 5pm on Monday 14thJune from Newcastle and arrive at Ijmuiden at 9.30am on theTuesday. They will then leave Ijmuiden at 5.30pm on the same dayand arrive back at Newcastle at 9am on Wednesday 16th June.The package includes two nights accommodation in a two lowerberthoutside cabin, an evening dinner buffet and breakfast buffetboth ways, and return transfers into Amsterdam,with an optional coach sightseeing tour. Return busfares from Newcastle Central Station tothe port are also included. ContactNorrie Dudgeon for more detailson 01540 651 762 orndudgeon@forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk.Mike and Pat withElizabeth WildView and post morephotos of these andother events onForesters Friends atwww.forestersfriends.co.ukYoRkshiRECourt ‘Chatsworth’…not so cleverCourt ‘Chatsworth’ entered a team inthe Mayor of Chesterfield’s charity quizrecently. Although they did not win, theyhad a good evening supporting the charity,and even learned a few things...Area meeting in LeedsDelegates and visitors representing12 Yorkshire branches attended thearea meeting in Leeds in February.Area Chief Ranger Geoff Armitageannounced that his appeal for MartinHouse Children’s Hospice had alreadyraised £2,051.Cupid’s arrow?On the Feast of StValentine (or the nearestSaturday), Court‘Chatsworth’ held asocial evening.Members were welland truly ready for aheart-shaped, light-hearted miscellany ofmusic, dancing, games, food and generalgood fun – and so it was. Activities includedan archery competition and ‘seateddancing’ – particularly popular with themore senior members!Social scene with Court No 5317Recent trips enjoyed by Court No5317 include Bakewell Market andStockport, Beverley Market and Hull,and Newark Market and Lincoln.Additionally, two charity dinnersraised money for the NationalOsteoporosisSociety and theMultiple SclerosisSociety. Allevents providedlots of enjoymentand happymemories.LincolnCathedralMiscellany Spring 2010 15

Area newsGreater LondonAREA MEMBERS HAVE ENJOYED VARIOUS SOCIAL EVENTS, INCLUDING TRIPS TOTHE CIRCUS, A QUIZ, A CHARITY COFFEE MORNING AND A DISCO WITH A TWIST!East London & EssExIt’s quiz time!It was a full house for theChief Ranger’s fun charityquiz in February. Court‘Industry of Cobden’ No 1752experimented with splittingthe New Year lunch and quiz,and it proved very popular as125 people booked and therewas a bit of a scramble tofind tables and chairs for everyone!As always, quizmaster RichardDarlington produced a brilliant setof questions that taxed everyone –well, all except Cheryl Eagleson’steam. They tied the top score onthe night with another team, sothere had to be a head-to-headCheryl in the head-tohead(top photo), and withsome lucky prizewinnersbest-of-three questions between the two team captains. Cheryl won– not surprising for a past winner of The Weakest Link!The scores were also placed on a snakes and ladders board, soeveryone had a chance to win something. But the real winner was theChief Ranger’s charity, which received the proceeds from the evening.Thanks to Richard and his team of helpers who made it so enjoyable.Let them eat cake!Following a lively area meeting, where discussion ranged frommembership to charitable and social events, the 65 delegatespresent then enjoyed a variation of the Cakebake. The bring-andbuycake stall proved popular with both bakers and buyers, andraised £103 for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.A disco with a differenceCourt ‘Industry of Cobden’ held its NewYear’s Eve party in Barkingside with a‘quiet disco’, by Ron Williams, so peoplecould talk if they didn’t want to danceor sing along. A caterer served a threecoursemeal, which warmed everyone upon a cold night – it started snowing as theywere leaving! A great time was had by all.Fabulous Fiskardo’sCourt ‘Industry of Cobden’ heldits New Year lunch at Fiskardo’s, aGreek restaurant at Fairlop Waters inBarkingside. With large and deliciousportions and a cosy private room tothemselves, it was a huge success.Chief Ranger Kay Demby presentedHigh Chief Ranger Jim Launchburywith a cheque for the MS Society.Everyone agreed it was an excellentvenue for a Sunday lunch.Basil CarpenterMembers of Court ‘Industry of Cobden’are sorry to announce the death of theirmuch-loved trustee, Basil Carpenter. Atrue Forester, Basil was always preparedto help others and give his time. His wishwas that donations went to the ForestersConvalescent Home in lieu of flowers –£1,000 was handed to the home trusteesin February. Our deepest sympathies to hiswidow Pat, daughter Denise and family.south LondonDidn’t we have a lovely time......the day we went to the circus! Courts‘Star of West Surrey’ and ‘Runnymede’joined up to see the Chinese StateCircus in Woking. Drums rolled andsymbals clashed, lions and dancersjoined in, contortionists, sword dancersand balancing acts entertained all, andeveryone enjoyed the fun of the circus.Area meetingChairman David Gubbins welcomed57 members to the area meetingin East Croydon. Joining David tospeak were Kate Gubbins, Bill andHilary Norsworthy and Chris Morris.The guest speaker was Gulen Petty,Community Fundraiser of the MSSociety, for which £132 was raised.View and post morephotos of these andother events onForesters Friends atwww.forestersfriends.co.uk16 Spring 2010 Miscellany

Area newsnorthErn homE CountiEsThanks to IvyIn Novemberlast year, IvyCottendencelebrated her90th birthday,and decided toresign as Trusteeof Court ‘Unity’ No9286 – a positionshe had heldnorth LondonArea meetingForty-eight membersattended the areameeting on 20thFebruary, with allbranches represented.Topics discussed andconsidered includedthe continuation of thebranch accreditationprocess.Ivy had beena Trustee ofCourt ‘Unity’since 1963since 1963. Ivy was thanked for all heryears of service and was presentedwith a Marks & Spencer gift card. Ivystill regularly attends branch nights.Clare talks about hertrip to Switzerlandwith the Girl GuidesAttendees also listened to Clare Abbott talk abouther trip to the World Girl Guides camp in Switzerlandlast summer. Her next venture is another Guides tripto Mexico in August, and to show their appreciationdelegates made a spontaneous collection to assisther fundraising.Aubrey Ivanhoe GordonIt is with profound regret that Court ‘TubalCain’ No 2765 announces the death of AubreyIvanhoe Gordon. Aubrey became a juniorbeadle a few years ago, and he also spent alot of time travelling to his native Jamaica.He will be sorely missed by all who knew him,and our profound condolences are extendedto his daughter and grandchildren.£1,000 donated by Court ‘Nell’Court ‘Nell’ No 6443 has donated an amazing£1,000 to Radlett Lodge School for autistic children.This money is going to be spent on playgroundequipment – more details will follow later in the yearwhen the equipment is purchased.Members were invited to attend the Christmasconcert performed by the pupils, which they reallyenjoyed. It was a brilliant concert and a great credit toall the staff who organised it.Quality timeCourt ‘Verulam Excelsior’held its annual dinner inhonour of High Chief RangerJim Launchbury and his wifeJanet at the Quality Hotelin St Albans. Thirtymembers attended,and Lucy Petagine, amember of the branch,presented the outgoingSecretary Jean Howes(her grandmother) andJanet with bouquets.£3,150 for Kings LangleyYvonne Petagine, Secretary of Court ‘Brownlow’,proudly represented Foresters at the Watford andLangleys Rotary Club presentation evening. Chequesamounting to £3,150 were presented to the localScouts and Guidinggroups, Kings LangleySchool, the LightOpera Company andthe Waterside Centre.Court ‘Brownlow’had sponsoredand produced theprogramme for thecarnival day last June.Social eventsOn 31st January, members of Court ‘Nell’ No6443 enjoyed a belated Christmas lunch at TheWhite Horse in Shenley, with plenty of chat. Itwas a second visit, so it must have been good!Twelve days later, members of Court ‘Unity’No 9286 gathered for a coffee morning in aid ofthe Multiple Sclerosis Society, hosted by PennyGoodsell, in Jean Wickes’ home.Miscellany Spring 2010 17

Area newsWales & the BordersYOU’RE INVITED TO JOIN AREA MEMbERS INTHEIR VARIOUS SOCIAL ACTIVITIESCalling all Wales & the Borders membersThe area committee would liketo invite any local members toattend the area meetings. Youdon’t have to belong to one ofthe six branches in the region –perhaps you live locally and areunable attend your own branchand area meetings?The meetings are held in AprilCentralCHEESE AND WINE, NINE-SPOT DOMINOES, AND AFEW NEW MOVERS AND SHAKERS ARE IN THE NEWSLord Stanhopemoves inCourt ‘Lord Stanhope’No 2804 in Lichfield hasjoined the area. We wishthem every happinessand look forward tomeeting them for the firsttime at the area meetingin Birmingham in April.New SecretaryBrenda Batt is the newSecretary of Court ‘LordPaget’. She replaces JanetHotchkiss, one of the area’slongest serving secretaries,who left before lastChristmas after moving toanother part of the country.and October at the TynewyddCountry Hotel, Pendryn Road,Aberdare, CF44 9SX. They start atmidday and are a great opportunityto exchange views and learn aboutwhat’s happening in the Society.Lunch follows at approximately1pm, at a cost of £12.75. The nextmeeting is on Thursday 22 April.Brecon Beacons canal tripMembers are invited to join in on a canaltrip in the Brecon Beacons on 26th June.Prior to the trip, there will be a visit to theSouth Wales Borderers Museum, and anAmerican picnic, where everyone bringsand shares something. The day is from2.30pm to 5pm, and costs £5 for members and £8 for guests,to include a cream tea. Local branches may be arranging acoach – contact your branch secretary for more details.A game of nine-spot?A message from Cecil Pointon:“The Area Co-ordinator has hada bee in his bonnet for some timeabout inter-branch/area eventsand competitions. The currentphase is for nine-spot dominoes,which are played in certain parts ofthe country. If anyone wants to play,there is a set available, and a socialevening can easily be arranged.”Cheese and wine eveningForty members had an enjoyableevening sampling wine and cheesefrom around the world at a recentsocial held by Court ‘Leek’. A quiztested everyone’s knowledge, withprizes for the winners, and a raffleraised £81 for the MS Society.WRITE IN TO SHAREYOUR OWN RECIPE,OR, TO gET INSPIRED,JOIN THE ‘RECIPES’FORUM ONWWW.FORESTERSFRIENDS.CO.UKCooking with CarmenApple and almond flanFor the pastry:150g plain flour100g fat1 egg yolkFor the filling:325g cooking apples50g ground almonds50g caster sugar1tbsp sugar1 egg Strawberry jam Water1. Peel and slice the apples thinly,then boil in a small amount of waterwith the tablespoon of sugar andallow to cool2. Mix the flour, fat and egg yolkto make the pastry; roll out half andline it in a seven-inch flan tin. Spreadit with jam3. Blend the almonds with thesugar and beaten egg4. Place half the mixture over thejam, then add the apples and theremainder of the almond mixtureon the top5. Cover with a pastry lid and bakeat Gas Mark 5/ 200˚C for 35 minutes6. Serve with icing sugar and cream18 Spring 2010 Miscellany

LettersReader toreaderMembers write in and share their thoughts and viewsA first-class stayWe enjoyed a stay at the Foresters Convalescent Home inBridlington on the East Yorkshire coast.From the moment of arrival we were treated very well indeed.The whole place was beautifully decorated, very clean and sovery friendly. There was a lovely garden where we could sitoutside, and just down the road was the sea. The meals werelovely, with something different every day. All were servedquickly and were piping hot. The staff were friendly and polite,and nothing was too much trouble for them. The other guestsbecame great friends and helped us to enjoy our stay.After two weeks we were very relaxed and felt so much better.Thank you to everyone,Anne Gale and Edith Oke, Court No 498, LeedsRemembering John TudorThe presence of Rev Dr JohnTudor was sorely missed at lastyear’s High Court, and on thenews of his death many memberswanted to say farewell. Theirchance came at his memorialservice, which took place atWestminster Methodist CentralHall in February.The High Chief Ranger, JimLaunchbury, spoke of John’sdedication since his first HighCourt as preacher in 1980. Eachyear his sermon at the Sundaychurch service had set the themefor that week’s conference, andhis annual coffee mornings withthe ‘High Court ladies’ werelegendary, as was his incrediblesense of humour.John had been SuperintendentMinister at Central Hall for14 years, and his unorthodoxpersonality led to a wonderfulrapport with WestminsterCathedral, Westminster Abbeyand the village of Westminster,all of whom had representativesat the service to deliver glowingtributes to him.John’sson, Peter,gave awonderfulinsightinto Johnthe man,who waslarger than life. He was full ofjokes, songs and smiles, Petersaid, and he could talk toanyone, whatever their status inlife, and make them feel special.When Princess Anne visitedCentral Hall for a function hecalled out to her, as she wasabout to get into her limousine,“Love to the family”!The following day would havebeen John’s 80th birthday, andhe would have enjoyed theservice which contained hisfavorite hymns and readings.At the end of the service arecording of his last sermon, atCentral Hall in August 2009, wasplayed. It was a reminder of thegreat showman and preacherthat he was, and brought a tearto many an eye in the hall.Sandra Scotting, LondonA social bunchI was pleased to be invitedto attend Court No 3260’sbarn dance, held at theStockman’s Lounge in lateautumn last year.During the evening Iwas invited by the CourtSecretary, Janet Dibble, topresent medals to severalyoung people to marktheir participation in aForesters fun walk. Thewalk was held last summerto raise funds for thePast High Chief Ranger’scharity appeal for theMotor Neurone DiseaseAssociation.All those who took partenjoyed the event, andthe members are to becongratulated on theirefforts in being activesocially and for theirencouragement of theyounger members. May Iextend my best wishes forthe branch’s continuedsuccess in the future,and my thanks for theinvitation to this event.Evan Waterman,Wimborne, DorsetDo youhave anythingyou’d like to share?Write to: The Editor,The Forester, Specialist,Clifton Heights, TriangleWest, Bristol BS8 1EJ oremail theforester@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukMiscellany Spring 2010 19

Member portraitsCVName: KenRobertsBorn: 1926Joined Foresters:1942Branch:Court ‘Concord’Lives:Chandlers Ford,SouthamptonHobbies:Gardening, DIY, Foresters, memberof the Institution of Mechanical EngineersSocial whirlsLife as a forester may have changedover the years, but Ken RobeRts is stiLLmaking the most of activities the societyarranges, as he teLLs MiscellanyRetired mechanical engineer Ken Roberts’sintroduction to Foresters Friendly Society waswhen he used to accompany his father tomeetings as a child. “A lot of youngsters mightnot have found the meetings particularly interesting, butI always really enjoyed them,” he explains.It wasn’t until 1942 that Ken finally became amember in his own right, joining Court ‘Cranbury Park’,which eventually amalgamated with Court ‘Concord’.Ken is now a trustee of Court ‘Concord’, and his wifeJean (pictured with him above) and three children are allmembers of the branch.Active social life“We’ve been involved in all sorts of social activitieswith Foresters over the years,” he recalls. “Dinners,dances, boat trips on the Thames… all sorts. Onceupon a time the district used to have an annual dinnerand dance attracting up to 700 people – there were somany of us, we used to take over Bournemouth Pavilionfor the evening. The activities have enhanced our sociallives no end.”When Ken isn’t catching up with his Forestersfriends, he serves on the Engineering Council SouthernRegional Committee and he also enjoys a spot ofgardening and DIY. He and Jean also became frequentflyers when one of their daughters emigrated toAustralia. “We’ve been to visit my daughter and herhusband over in Perth about five times now,” Ken says.While there are no plans to visit again in the nearfuture – “it’s a long flight to get there and we’re getting alittle too old to do it now” – Ken and Jean still get to seetheir son-in-law regularly when he flies into the countryas part of his work. A truly global Foresters family!History in themakinga forester since he was a young boy, DaviD HaRmanhas even contributed a historic moment of his ownto the society – of the romantic sort!When you come from a Foresters family like DavidHarman does, a deep involvement with ForestersFriendly Society seems almost guaranteed.“My father, grandfathers and uncles were allmembers of Court ‘Pride of Horley’, so I was enrolled at aboutfive years old,” he says. “In fact, one of my earliest memorieswas attending a children’s tea party at Christmas when I wasabout seven or eight. The Court Secretary was dressed up asFather Christmas, complete with a white beard!”However, despite such strong recollections of life as ayoung Forester (David was even made junior beadle, whichmeant he had to go to the bar after branch meetings to fetchtrays of pints for the members), it wasn’t until after he met hissecond wife, Joan, that he really started to become active.War, scouting and courting!“During the Second World War I was in the reserveoccupation, so Foresters activity got rather reduced,” heexplains. “I was also heavily involved in the Boy Scoutmovement and busy courting my first wife Doreen!” Thecouple went on to have two sons – both Foresters members– but sadly Doreen died in 1977.After this David became more active again with theForesters, ending up with Court ‘Friar Tuck’. It was duringthis time that he started picking up a certain lady called Joanto take to the meetings, and the pair ended up making a bitof history: in September 1981, they were the first two officersof the branch to get married.Over the years, David has held the roles of Social Secretaryand District Chief Ranger, but he’s had to take his foot offthe gas in recent years. “Being a Forester has enhancedmy life no end, but it’s got to the stage where it’s very nearlytaken over,” he laughs. “Joan has been a big support to me,as have the other Foresters members. I know there is helpavailable if I need it – it’s always been there.”CVName:David HarmanBorn: 1922Joined Foresters:1927Branch:Court ‘Shiplake’Lives: Hailsham,East SussexHobbies: Gardening,freshwater fishing,Foresters20 Spring 2010 Miscellany

Diary dates2010Diary datesPlease send all your news and diary dates for the summer issue of miscellanyby 7th may to Janet m Clements, 40 Howard Road, Upminster, Essex Rm14 2UFCENTRAL14th AugustArea outing to ChatsworthHouse and gardens£5 advance charge will includetea, coffee and admission fees4th SeptemberCourt ‘Leek’ trip to OxfordLeave Leek bus station 8am. £6members, £10 non-members6th OctoberPie and pea supperLeek Central Club, MarketStreet. 8pm, £2 per personDEVON & CORNWALL24th AprilCourt No 3470 dinner danceSandy Lodge Hotel, Newquay.7pm for 7.30pm15th MayAnnual area dinner dance7pm, Launceston22nd MayArea AGMLunch 12.30pm, Liskeard25th SeptemberCourt No 4107 10-pin bowling4.30 for 5pm, TrethorneLeisure Centre, LauncestonEAST ANGLIA NORTH10th AprilDaytrip to BressinghamSteam and Gardens9th MaySpring lunchKettering Park Hotel & Spa,12.30pm. £9.50 members,£14.50 non-members.Bookings by 19th April on01353 720 63819th JuneArea fundraising eventGames competition27th JuneLondon – River Thamescruise and lunchCourt Nos 4098 and 4893. Tobook call 01353 720 63814th AugustArea meeting and AGMBreckland Lodge,Attleborough, 10.30am4th SeptemberForesters Brass concertCourt No 9389. St Botolph’sChurch, Boston. Call 01205352 925 for more detailsEAST ANGLIA SOUTH10th MayCourt No 3658 quiz nightMendlesham CommunityCentre, 7.30pm. In aid of EastAnglia’s Children’s Hospices31st JulyCoffee morningFrom 10am. Old SchoolRoom, Mendlesham, SuffolkEAST LONDON & ESSEx25th AprilCourt 2630 meetingHunters Meet, Hatfield Heath15th MayBand day in aid of a traininghospital in MalawiEssex Arms, Brentwood.12-2pm, £3 for 12 bands22nd MaySnakes and ladders quizSt Gabriel’s CommunityCentre, Pitsea, Basildon, £512th JuneArea summer ballWarley Park Golf Club, MagpieLane, Little Warley, £2510th JulyYoung at Heart FestivalIRDSA Hall, Barkingside. £4, or£3 in advance. To include facepainting and entertainment17th JulyRace nightIRDSA Hall, Barkingside, £10HANTS & SUSSEx15th-17th OctoberSouthern CountiesConferenceDurley Dean Hotel, Bournemouth31st OctoberFun day at the racesNORTHERN HOmE COUNTIES24th AprilArea meetingAldwickbury Golf Club,Harpenden14th MayCourt No 3511Trip to see Beauty and theBeast, Watford16th MayCourt ‘Park Valley’afternoon tea and cakesCaddington, for the MS Society30th MayCourt ‘Nell’ and Court‘Perseverance’ cake bakeSt Albans, for the MS Society19th JuneCourt No 5542 social eventFeaturing the Soul Man. VillageHall, Mepplesham, £54th JulyCourt ‘Lina Stradling’garden partyWindsor, for the MS Society18th JulyCake Icing CompetitionCourt No 6054, Caddington29th OctoberCourt No 3511 150thanniversary disco and buffetNORTH LONDON27th AprilA ‘Taste of Cake’ breakHosted by Court No 293923rd MayCourt No 2939 Forester ofthe Year lunch18th JulyCourt No 1620 Sunday lunchHunters Meet, Hatfield Heath, £188th AugustCourt No 1620 cream teaMarriott Hotel, Cheshunt, £1023rd SeptemberCourt No 1940 meetingStony StratfordNORTH WESTERN17th AprilArea dinner danceBuile Hill19th JuneCourt ‘Tunstall’ tripto LlandudnoDepart Christ Church Hall,Tunstall 9am. £5 members, £8non-members14th OctoberCourt ‘Tunstall’ cheese andwine eveningThistleberry Hotel, Newcastleunder-Lyme,7.30pmPRIDE OF KENT9th OctoberCourt ‘Union Jack’ charitydinner danceAshford International Hotel, £26SCOTTISH SUPPORT GROUP14th-16th JuneTwo-night mini-cruise toAmsterdam from NewcastleSee page 15 for more detailsMiscellany Spring 2010 21

Calendar2010Diary datessCotLaNd CoNt.October – da te t bcLondon theatre tripTwo-night B&B stayand a West End show30th OctoberArea meetingMillennium Hotel,Glasgow, 1pmsoutHERN HoME CouNtiEs24th AprilArea meetingBarnsgate ManorVineyard, 10.30am9th MayWakehurst PlaceGardens and lunch19th JuneForesters HomesOpen Day, Bexleyheath10th JulyArea dinnerEast Sussex NationalGolf Resort and Spa15th AugustSponsored walk inaid of the MS Society1pm, £5 entry, fish andchips on Brighton Pier5th SeptemberTrip to Hever CastleIn conjunction with theSouth London areaOctober-date tbcSunday lunch, RowfantHouse, near CrawleysoutH LoNdoN29th MayCourt No 3213 lunchGillingham, Kent. Call01233 627 68312th JuneArea barbecueDarenth Valley GolfClub, Shoreham, 5pm.Members: adults £18;children £10. Nonmembers:adults £24;children £1217th JulyArea meeting/AGMHoliday Inn, Woking,10.30am25th JulyCourt No 2215sponsored walkGreenwich5th SeptemberTrip to Hever CastleWith the SouthernHome Counties areatHaMEs VaLLEY10th AprilArea meetingForesters Hall,Kidlington, Oxon25th AprilSt George’s Day lunchHawkwell Hotel,Oxford, £1320th JuneBarbecueSavernake Forest,Marlborough10th JulyArea meetingCalcot Golf Club1st AugustLunch on theWatercress Line(limited numbers)2nd OctoberArea meetingHarwell RBL24th OctoberAutumn lunchSonning Golf ClubWaLEs & tHE BoRdERs22nd AprilArea meetingTynewydd CountryHotel, Aberdare, CF449SX, starts at midday26th JuneCanal Trip on theBrecon BeaconsStarting at 2.30pm,finishing at 5pm. £5 forall area members, otherguests £813th OctoberArea meetingTynewydd CountryHotel, Aberdare, CF449SX, starts at middayWEssEx10th AprilSkittles challengeWessex v Hants &Sussex. The Mill Arms,Dundridge24th AprilArea delegatesmeetingHamworthy Club.Canford Magna, 2pm9th MayArea lunch15th-17th MayTrip to Guernsey16th-18th OctoberSouthern areaconference23rd OctoberWessex areadelegates meetingShawford VillageHall, 2pmYoRKsHiRE11th AprilLunch and tourThe Black SheepBrewery8th MayCourt No 506annual dinnerAscot House Hotel,Harrogate23rd MayJoint area bowlstournament1pm, Barnsley BowllingClub5th JuneCourt No 4727 dinnerJohn Charles Centre,Leeds12th JuneSponsored walk forthe MS Society10-mile walk on theTissington Trail inDerbyshire25th JulyCourt No 332 crowngreen bowlingHolmfirth31st JulyArea Chief Ranger’sgarden party15th AugustTrip to PontefractRaces30th OctoberArea annual dinnerCedar Court Hotel,WakefieldPassword 2010Each year the Board sets a password which is published inMiscellany in code. The key is printed in the Court handbook.This year the password is:Area Co-ordinators directoryEast & CENtRaLCentral:Cecil Pointon tel: 01270 666 463Email: cpointon@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukEast anglia North:Rosalyn Morris tel: 01353 720 638Email: rmorris@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukEast anglia south:Dawn Smith tel: 01449 766 466 Mob: 07899 660 895Email: dsmith@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukEast Midlands:Elizabeth Abbott tel: 0116 224 8729Email: abbott_elizabeth_a@cat.comGREatER LoNdoNEast London & Essex:Janet Pooley tel: 01277 222 028Email: jpooley@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukNorth London:Jim Launchbury tel: 01926 624 578Email: launchbury@supanet.comNorthern Home Counties:Janet Clements tel: 01708 227 425Email: jclements@forestersfriendlysociety.co.uksouth London:Chris Morris tel: 01353 720 638Email: chrispmorris@tinyworld.co.ukNoRtH & sCotLaNdNorth Western:David Watkins tel: 0161 748 7370Email: tranquilla@btopenworld.comContact from May: Sue Birch (see below)scottish support Group:Norrie Dudgeon tel: 01540 651 762Email: ndudgeon@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukYorkshire:Sue Birch tel: 01422 202 940Email: sbirch@forestersfriendlysociety.co.uksoutHHants & sussex:George Yalden tel: 02392 486 790Email: gyalden@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukKent:Barry Presland tel: 01474 361 959 Mob: 07876 151 736Email: barrypresland@blueyonder.co.uksouthern Home Counties:Richard Bourne tel: 01892 825 771Mob: 07956 998 889 Email: rmbourne@tiscali.co.ukthames Valley:Barry Toomey tel: 01491 576 519 Mob: 07879 233 652Email: barry@toomey.co.ukWessex:Bobbie Smith tel: 01489 781 060 Mob: 07889 799 719Email: bobbie.tyneham@dsl.pipex.comWEst & WaLEsdevon & Cornwall:Peter Corke tel: 01404 47437 Mob: 07974 704 887Email: jpcorke@aol.comWales & the Borders:Janet Clements tel: 01708 227 425Email: jclements@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukThanks to all our contributors:Sue Birch, Julie Boscher, Richard Bourne, Henry Cleghorn,Janet E Clements, Tony Curtis, Janet Dibble, Rebecca Ewing,Doreen Gant, Chris Harrop, Joan Hopkins, A B Jones, JimLaunchbury, Tony Lewis, Ros Morris, Yvonne Petagine, CecilPointon, Janet Pooley, Jenny Ray, Sandra Scotting, Fred Smart,Bobbie Smith, Dawn Smith, Nicky Sparrow, Barry Toomey, ColinWalker, David Watkins, Tom Webster, Trudy Weller.The Editor reserves the right to edit or condense letters and articlesprior to publication.22 Spring 2010 Miscellany

HeritAGe 23Roger Logan, Director of the Foresters Heritage Trust, looks at some of the stories behindthe weird and wonderful names of the Society’s branches across the countrythe namegameGuardian Angel’, ‘PoorMan’s Friend’, ‘BraveOld Oak’, ‘Peveril of thePeak’, ‘Robin Hood & MerryMen of Sherwood Forest’ – theSociety’s branches have manycolourful names, but what arethe stories behind them?A long-held traditionMany branches were given theirnames decades before ForestersFriendly Society was officiallyfounded in 1834. This is becausethey were part of the earlierestablished Royal Foresters society,which decreed in the early 1800sthat all branches should have names.When more than 300 Royal Forestersbranches defected to the newlyformed Ancient Order of Foresters in1834, the principle continued.What’s in a name?From the outset of naming, thedecision on what to call each branchwas down to whoever had createdit. Although many names wereduplicated – for instance, by 1888there were 82 branches named‘Robin Hood’ – there is no record ofany suggested name being refusedby the Society’s Executive Council.Before 1834, there was a clearpattern in the naming of the RoyalFrom the pastFurther information aboutForesters branch names canbe obtained from roger Loganat the Foresters Heritagetrust’s Museum & Archive02380 216 880enquiries@aoforestersheritage.comForesters branches. The earliestones used virtuous characteristicsfor names, such as, ‘Honour’,‘Goodwill’ and ‘Truth’. The late1820s saw a preference for religiousconnotations, for example ‘MountSinai’, ‘Jerusalem’ and ‘Pentecost’.A smattering of royal referencesoccurred in the early 1830s, such as‘William IV’ and ‘Queen Elizabeth’.A range of sourcesThe Victorian period saw namesdrawn from a wide range of sources.This included employers – forexample, Courts ‘C W Finzel’ and‘Finzel’s Pride’ in Bristol showeda direct connection with the localchocolate manufacturer, whileCourt ‘Cubitt’ contained membersdrawn from the works of the greatmetropolitan building contractor,Thomas Cubitt.Politicians such as Disraeli andGladstone had branches namedafter them, and Court ‘Golden Gate’,in San Francisco, was a rather apttopographical application.A special letterIt is, however, the naming of abranch in Woolston in Hampshirethat provides the clearest evidenceof just how personal selecting aname could be. In response tothose forming the new branch inthe late 1870s, Florence Nightingalewrote the letter to the right. Heroriginal letter is on displayin the Foresters HeritageTrust’s Museum and Archivein Southampton, and thebranch was indeed namedCourt ‘Florence Nightingale’.Sir,I have to thank you for your kindletter of April 12th. I know hownumerous and how much respectedis the great Order of Foresters, andI feel grateful for your proposal toassociate my name with the WoolstonCourt of the Order.My home was for a long time inHampshire, but less on that accountthan because a body containing somany men who have served in theArmy and Navy must always havethe deepest interest for me, I gladlyaccept the honour which the Courtproposes to confer on me.Your kindness will excuse mydelay in answering yours, onaccount of some pressure ofoverwork and illness increasingevery year upon me.Ever your faithful servant,Florence NightingaleImage: Photolibrary

24 clear your financial cobwebs1Check for forgotten direct debits. Theaverage adult wastes up to £650 a yearon bank orders they have neglected tocancel, according to The Debt Advisor.So get out your bank statements from thepast three or so months and scrutinise them.Common areas of waste are subscriptionsto magazines that you no longer have timeto read, or memberships of clubs andassociations you no longer use.Try the Direct Debit wastage calculator atwww.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/direct-debit2Scrutinise all your paperwork,no matter how old. Double checkwhether you have any old life policies,shares and dividends, premium bondprizes, forgotten pensions, dormant savingsaccounts and lottery wins. According to theUnclaimed Assets Register (UAR), £15 billionof assets in the UK lie unclaimed.www.uar.co.ukwww.mylostaccount.org.uk3Cut your gas and electricity bills.Energy companies are overchargingthe average household by up to£74, according to Consumer Focus,the Government watchdog. Visit onlinecomparison sites to see how much moneyyou could save by switching supplier. Anddon’t forget that being a bit ‘greener’ athome, such as turning appliances off standbyand only filling up the kettle with as muchwater as you need, could also significantly cutyour electricity bill in the long run.www.energyhelpline.comwww.uswitch.comwww.energysavingtrust.org.uk4Don’t get sucked in by storecards. The Finance and LeasingAssociation (FLA) estimates there are14.6 million store cards in circulation,with around £3 billion worth of transactionsmade on them. But take one of these cardsout at your peril, as they are one of themost expensive ways to borrow, with somecharging interest rates that are 60 timesgreater than the Bank of England base rate,according to Which?. However, don’t confusethese with loyalty cards, such as the Nectarcard or Tesco Clubcard, which reward youbased on how much you spend.www.citizensadvice.org.ukwww.which.co.uk/advice/store-cardswww.debtadvice.co.ukspring7 ways tofrom staying well clear of store credit cards to getting rid of unnecessary ‘perks’in your current bank account, we help to give your bank balance a good clearout

clear your financial cobwebs 255Check your insurance renewaldates. When they’re approaching,start to check online comparison sitesto see if you can find a better rate.Ecclesiastical’s home insurance, for example,has helped some members save significantamounts off previous premiums – don’t forgetthat, as a Foresters member, you get an extra10 per cent discount off this cover. And, ifyou can, try to pay your premium in a lumpsum for the year. If you pay by monthly DirectDebit you’ll get charged interest, which cansometimes be extortionate. Some car insurers,for example, are reported to charge as muchas 24 per cent interest for the privilege ofpaying on a monthly basis.www.gocompare.comwww.moneysupermarket.comwww.ecclesiastical.com/foresters6Unload your packaged bankaccount. Every year, large numbersof people pay a vast amount of moneyfor added perks in their bank accountthat they don’t ever use – and in fact thatthey sometimes aren’t even aware of. Theseaccounts can charge monthly fees of up to£15 for benefits such as travel insuranceand breakdown cover. According toWhich?, only a small handful of individualinsurance deals are more expensive thanthose in a packaged bank account.www.which.co.uk/advice/do-I-need-apackaged-bank-account7Cut the clutter. Spring cleaningyour home can not only be extremelysatisfying – it could also make you a bitof money. They say one man’s trash isanother man’s treasure, so why not headto a nearby car boot sale with yourunwanted belongings, register themfor sale in the local newspaperor in Loot, or you could tryselling them in an Ebay onlineauction? Or, of course, youcould donate them to acharity shop and let thecharity keep the proceeds,or give any furniture you nolonger need to the FurnitureReuse Network (FRN), whichwill pass it on to people whodo need it.www.carbootcalendar.comwww.loot.comwww.ebay.co.ukwww.frn.org.ukWIN!A signed copy of No moreNo moreclutter by Sue Kay, one of theUK’s top de-cluttering experts andfounder of www.nomoreclutter.co.ukFor a chance to win, just answer this question:What’s the name of the popular Sunday-nightBBC television programme all about antiques?Send your answer and contact details by31st May to: Foresters No more cluttercompetition, Specialist, Clifton Heights,Triangle West, Bristol BS8 1EJor email theforester@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukSee the back page for fullterms and conditionscl£anyour finances

26 GROW YOUR OWNNow spring is well and truly upon us, why not get outdoors and try growing your ownvegetables. We look at the many good reasons for getting more green fingeredTHEGOOD LIFEt’s great for your health, it savesmoney, it’s completely organicIand it’s incredibly satisfying.Growing your own food has manybenefits. And, with the price ofsupermarket fruit and vegetables onthe up, it’s not surprising that the saleof packet vegetable seeds is nowoutstripping that of garden flowers, asmore people opt to grow their own.Not only can it save you money, ifyou grow your own food you also knowexactly where it comes from, which hasincreasing appeal, according to BBCGardeners’ World and grow-your-ownexpert Pippa Greenwood. “People havebecome more interested in what they’reeating and the provenance of theirfood, as well as whether things such aspesticides have been put on it.”Very little compares to the quality ofhome-grown produce, argues Pippa. “It’ssecond to none, both in terms of tasteand texture. For example, as soon asyou pick a sweetcorncob off the plant, thenatural sugars startturning into starch.So just imaginehow much better it tastes if can you eat itfive minutes after it’s been picked.”Plenty of opportunitiesYou can try your hand at growing things evenif you don’t have a garden. For example,if you only have a space on the windowsillor a small balcony, why not try growingherbs or salad leaves in a pot? If you dohave a garden, but not enough space fora dedicated vegetable plot, why not plantvegetables among your flowers? Or perhapsask a neighbour with a larger garden if youcould use a patch of their ground, offeringsome of your produce in return.Other options are also available andare often a great way to meet like-mindedpeople with green-fingered interests.Community garden schemes, for instance,involve reclaiming land to grow food andplants as a neighbourhood communityproject – visit www.farmgarden.org.uk tofind out more. And there is the Land Sharescheme, which brings together peoplelooking for a gardening plot and those whoare unable to manage their land – for moredetails visit www.landshare.org.Or why not think about renting anallotment? Not only does it give you adecent spread of land to grow everythingon, it can be great fun socially as well. Formore information and advice, visitwww.allotment.org.uk.Getting startedPippa Greenwood’sadvice for peopletrying their hand atgrowing vegetables forthe first time is to startwith the easier things. “Go for producelike potatoes, courgettes and sugar snappeas. They are particularly easy to grow,and it’s terribly rewarding to dig them out orpick them. And make sure you choose thosevegetables you like to eat, not what otherpeople tell you to.”Pippa’s top five vegetables to grow are:Courgettes: “You only need two orthree plants and you’ll have lots of greattasting courgettes. With their bright yellowflowers, the plants are also very attractive.”tomatoes: “Home-grown tomatoestaste divine. It’s easier to grow them inside,so if you have a porch or a greenhousekeep them in there, and invest in a growbag frame.”Calabrese (broCColi): “It’s not theeasiest thing to grow, but it’s a worthwhile,high-yielding plant. My favourite is avariety called Iron Man.”sugar snap peas: “These are sweetand tender, and just delicious. Watch outfor slugs and wood pigeons however; trysprinkling oyster shell or other organic slugdeterrents around the plant’s base.”potatoes: “There’s nothing like homegrownpotatoes. Charlotte potatoes aremy favourite, with their lovely texture andflavour, or if you want to go for largerpotatoes, then try the Picasso or Cara.”When to start plantingWith the weather getting warmer and lessrisk of frost, April is the perfect time to startyour vegetable garden, says Pippa. Butbefore you plant anything, she advises thatyou must fully prepare your soil by forking ingarden compost or well-rotted manure.And, of course, the work doesn’t endafter you’ve planted your seeds. Nurturingthem as they grow is an essential part ofthe process. Keep an eye out for slugs andsnails, and keep on top of the weeding sothat young plants don’t get swamped. Don’tforget to water everything regularly – butnot erratically, which can lead to split fruit,especially in tomatoes.Although some of this may be commonsense, a little guidance along the way canbe valuable. The Royal Horticultural Society(www.rhs.org.uk) and the BBC’s gardeningwebsite (www.bbc.co.uk/gardening) bothgive tips on how to keep on top of your

GROW YOUR OWN 27vegetable garden. Pippa offers a useful growyour-ownservice (see the box to the right formore details). And you can share your thoughtson www.forestersfriends.co.uk by joining inthe discussions in the gardening forum.Enjoying the resultsThere are no precise guidelines as to whenvegetables are ripe and ready for harvest, butthere are some rules of thumb to guide you onwhether they are ready for picking.For example, you should harvest tomatoeswhen they are fully coloured and slightly softto the touch, while beans should be pickedbefore you can see the seeds start to bulge.New potatoes, meanwhile, can be harvestedwhen the tops start to flower, while for largerpotatoes, it’s best to wait until the tops of thepotato plants dry and turn brown.Now all there’s left to do is enjoy the fruits ofyour labour. Says Pippa: “The fact is, whatevervariety of fruit or vegetable you go for, it’s goingto taste so much better than anything you canbuy in a supermarket, because it’s fresh, and youknow it has come straight from the garden.”greenguidanceare you keen to grow your own,but need a little help along the way?Before heading off to the garden centre, go online and takea look at www.pippagreenwood.com.Pippa offers a range of grow-your-own packages where youcan order up to 10 different vegetable crops, which will besent to you at the perfect time for planting. In addition,she will email you each week with all the advice and tipsyou need – talking you through exactly what you need todo, how and when. The packages range from £47 fora four-crop pack to £82 for 10 different vegetable crops.Each package also contains six packets ofvegetable and herb seeds.Plus – if you order a package before 30th April, you’llreceive a free signed copy of Pippa Greenwood’sGardening Year – just write ‘The Forester offer’in the instructions box when ordering. Seethe back page for terms andconditions.Corbis

Forestersers28 CommunityinersWe catch up with what members have been doing in the communityand suggest a few fundraising ideas for you to get involved in actionWe catch up with what members have been doing in the communityin actionOrder your free hostpack, with somedelicious recipesfrom the Hairy BikersHost a cake break for the mS SocietyTea and cakes – what could be better? How about drinking teaand eating cakes to raise money for the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society?On Friday 30th April, the MS Society is holding a Cake Break day and is invitingeveryone to host their own tea party for friends and family. Celebrity chefs Si Kingand Dave Myers – aka the Hairy Bikers – are the official faces of Cake Break, andyou can find some of their favourite recipes in the Cake Break host pack.You can request your free host pack by calling 0870 2413565 or visiting www.mssociety.org.uk/cakebreak.Please remember to quote or select Foresters FriendlySociety when registering.Over £2,800 for WoodlandsAnother worthy Multiple Sclerosis-related charitythat has received great support from Foresters isthe Woodlands MS Respite Centre in York.Over £2,800 was raised for the centre bymembers from the North West area. The phototo the left shows Past High Chief Ranger DavidWatkins and his daughter Julie presenting thecheque to Woodlands Fundraising CoordinatorRachel Chamberlain. It was presented on behalfof former Area Chief Ranger Ted Ingman. Juliehas spent many weeks in Woodlands over thepast 18 years.Support for SheffieldChildren’s HospitalLast year, three Foresters branchesin Sheffield – ‘Excelsior’, ‘Roebuck’and ‘Good Intent’ – carried out ajoint fundraising programme in aid ofSheffield Children’s Hospital.A vast array of activities, includingparty nights, car boot sales, bucketcollections and a sponsored walk,raised a grand total of £2,035.63.Shown helping to present thecheque is six-year-old Olivia Wasden,a third-generation Forester who,through her own collecting efforts,showed a fine example of an earlycommitment to the Society’s values.Well done Olivia!Olivia and Sheffieldbranch representativespresent the cheque

Community 29More money for MNDCourt ‘Sarum and Pembroke’ in Wessexwarmly welcomed Past High Chief RangerPat Swadling to a recent meeting, withgames (complete with cheating!) deliciousrefreshments, funand laughter.However, thehighlight of the nightwas presenting Patwith a cheque for£1,850, raised by thebranch at variousfunctions throughout2009 for his chosencharity, the MotorNeurone DiseaseAssociation.Megan, an active member of the branch,did an excellent job of presenting theGETINVOLVEDDo you have somegreat ideas or needinspiration for anyfundraising activities?Join the discussion in theCharity & Fundraising forum onwww.forestersfriends.co.ukcheque to Pat.A rising table tennis starin our midst!Last spring, Dan Lawrence, a youngmember from Tonbridge in Kent, wasinvited to join the England under-13s tabletennis squad at the age of 11.This was a dream come true for Dan,who has worked hard since the age of sixunder the watchful eye of his granddadJohn Standing – who also happens to be aretired table tennis coach.Dan is currently the Kent numberone under-13s table tennis player, andhe’s also number five in the Englandunder-13s squad – an amazingachievement. “He practises four to fivenights a week, and is at tournamentsall over the country three out of everyfour weekends,” says his granddad, whoregularly accompanies him.Hilary Norsworthy, Assistant Secretaryof Dan’s local branch, Court ‘ForestersGlory’, says he also owes someof his success to hisgrandma Mary’snever-endingmeal and tastysnack service!We wishDan everysuccess forthe future.alamy£1 draw forone-off plateThe Thames Valley areais giving members theopportunity to win a oneoffwooden plate with theSociety emblem embeddedin the centre. All you have todo is donate £1 to the HighChief Ranger’s Appeal for theMS Society. See page 13 formore details.Taking on the IronMan challengeAs well as taking part inthe Coast-to-Coast sponsoredbike ride from Workingtonto Sunderland with hisuncle Jim Launchbury (alsoknown as the Society’s HighChief Ranger) in May, PaulSedwards is undertakinganother arduous challenge.On 25th July, Paul willbe taking on the Iron ManSwitzerland Triathlon inaid of the MS Society.This consists of a 2.4 milelake swim, a 112 milecycle, followed by a fulldistance marathon.This is quite an amazingfeat to take on, and we wish Paul lots of luck in histraining over the coming months. If you want to sponsor Paul andhelp him raise money for the MS Society, visit his fundraising pageat http://beatms.mssociety.org.uk/netcommunity/Pauls-Swiss-Ironman-Challenge2010Fund naming competitionThanks to the readers who entered our War MemorialBenevolent fund re-naming competition in the lastissue of The Forester (page 29). Here are our fivefavourite suggestions:Children’s Benevolent FundSusan Jenkinson, Newport Pagnell, BucksForesters Cherish the Children FundMary Rowe, Felixstowe, SuffolkCINDAS (Children in Need of Assistance) FundJenny Ray, Midhurst, West SussexThe Living FundNicky Lloyd Bussell, Cricklade, WiltshireWe Who Care FundRide like thewind, Paul!Mary Hill, Newark, NottinghamshireEach of you will be receiving a copy ofSapper Martin: TheSecret Great War Diary of Jack Martin– congratulations!

30DirectoryFor moredetails about any of our products:Member benefitsA guide to our products08000 214 523quoting BONDspring1008000 214 523quoting TESPspring10Join our club!When you take out anyForesters product (excludingour partner products), youautomatically become amember of the Society. Thismeans you’re entitled to anumber of brilliant benefitsand services including:Discounts from manyof the UK’s leadingbrand namesSocial and communityevents through our 250regional branchesA 24-hour telephoneadvice helplineIllness or disabilitysupportDiscretionary grantsfor those in need offinancial assistanceWill writing servicesSee the Membership page on ourwebsite for a full list of benefits.(The discretionary benefits offeredby Foresters are not authorisedand regulated by the FSA.)BondThis is a lump-sum investment that aimsto offer the advantages of long-termgrowth of over five years or more.Invest a lump sum of between £1,000and £50,000No basic or starting rate Income Taxor Capital Gains Tax to payOption to make withdrawals as aone off or on a regular basis (subjectto conditions)No time restrictions on how long youcan keep your money in the Bond– giving it an even better chance ofbenefiting from potential growthYou may not get back what you payin to your Bond, dependent on theinvestment term and investmentconditions at surrenderTax Exempt Savings PlanOur Tax Exempt Savings Plan paysa cash lump sum, free of Income Taxand Capital Gains Tax (except for taxdeducted from dividend income, whichcannot be reclaimed), at the end of afixed term. Plus, you can have a TaxExempt Savings Plan in addition toother tax-efficient plans, including ISAs.Only a friendly society like Foresters canoffer these tax advantages.Monthly contributions of only £25You can choose when you receiveyour cash after a fixed term ofbetween 10 and 25 yearsAvailable to anyone aged 16 and over,with no upper age limitISA08000 214 523quoting ISAspring10Our Stocks and Shares ISA is agreat way to maximise your savingsbecause it is so tax efficient. Not onlydo you avoid paying any Income Taxor Capital Gains Tax on your savings,there is also no need to declare yourISA on your tax return.Contributions can be either regularamounts from as little as £30 amonth by Direct Debit, a one-offsum (minimum £250), or acombination of bothYou can cash in your ISA whenyou want, but it’s best viewed asa long-term investmentYou may not get back what you payin to your ISA, dependent on theinvestment term and investmentconditions on withdrawal

DIRECTORY 3108000 214 523 theforester@forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukwww.forestersfriendlysociety.co.ukOur partner’s products08000 214 523quoting 50+spring1008000 214 523quoting CTESPspring100800 917 4134quoting FFS201050+ Life CoverOur over-50s life insurance provides aguaranteed lump-sum payout after yourdeath. This could help towards payingfor funeral expenses, any outstandingdebts you leave behind, or to leave asmall legacy in your will.Available to UK residents agedbetween 50 and 80You will not be asked any healthrelatedquestions, and won’t need tohave a medicalCover can cost as little as 36p a day,based on a minimum premium of £10per month over 28 daysIf you should die during the first twoyears of the policy, payouts are limitedto the return of premiums, other thanin the case of accidental death08000 214 523quoting SICKspring10Child Tax ExemptSavings PlanForesters’ Child Tax Exempt SavingsPlan pays a cash lump sum, free ofCapital Gains Tax and Income Tax(except for tax deducted from dividendincome, which cannot be reclaimed),at the end of a fixed term – a taxadvantage that can only be offered by afriendly society like Foresters.You pay a regular monthly contributionof £25 on behalf of the childthroughout the term of the policy(between 10 and 25 years)You can choose when your childreceives the cash payment, from age16 onwards08000 214 523quoting ECTFspring10Home InsuranceForesters General Insurance hasteamed up with insurance providerEcclesiastical, which is offering10 per cent off its five-star ratedhome insurance – plus a further10 per cent off if you buy it onlineat www.ecclesiastical.com/foresters. Cover includes:Up to £60,000 for contents and£500,000 for buildingsUp to £2,500 per claim forcontents in the gardenUp to £1,000 per claim forreplacement locks if your keysare lost or stolen.Foresters General InsuranceServices Ltd (Company No3322239) is an introducerappointed representative ofEcclesiastical Insurance Officeplc which is authorised andregulated by the FSA.Sickness PolicyAre you self employed, or do youhave little or no sickness benefitsfrom your employer? The SicknessPolicy from Foresters pays a regularamount if you are off work due tosickness or injury.Four benefit levels of £100, £200,£300 or £400Maximum benefit period of 26 or52 quoting weeks ISAAutumn09Available for anyone aged between20 and 59 (at commencement)No evidence of earnings requiredEthical Child Trust FundThe Ethical Child Trust Fund aims tobuild a tax-efficient lump sum for a child,which they receive on their 18th birthday.Firstly, the Government providesa £250 voucher to be invested onbehalf of children born on or after1st September 2002. Additionalcontributions can then be made eitheras a lump sum one-off payment(minimum £50) or on a regular basisby Direct Debit from £5 a monthIt avoids investing in companiesbelieved to be harmful to theenvironment, people, animals or wildlifeTaking out any financial servicesproduct with Foresters FriendlySociety will give you free,automatic membership and accessto a range of member benefits atno extra cost.Any money paid into ForestersFriendly Society products isinvested in the Society’s WithProfits Fund. Should you applyfor any of our products, it isimportant that you carefully readall the documentation provided toensure you fully understand howthe policy(ies) work(s). Terms andconditions apply.Please note that tax rules maychange and their value will dependon individual circumstances.Authorised and regulated by theFinancial Services Authority (FSA).Incorporated Friendly Society No511F, FSA Registration No 110029.Images: Photolibrary

✁32 crosswordcolin’squote ofthe issue:“Never go cheapon your bed or yourshoes. You will be inone or the other foryour entire life.”WIN!send in yourcompletedcrossword andyou could bein with thechance of winning a £30Marks & Spencer voucher.The first name out of the hatwill win the voucher, and10 runners-up will get aForesters travel mug.send your crosswordand contact detailsby 31st May to:Foresters crosswordcompetition, Specialist,Clifton Heights, TriangleWest, Bristol BS8 1EJTerms and conditions:Lake District hotel prize draw, page 7: The prizedraw is for a two-night break for two people at theHolbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel, near LakeWindermere. The break must be taken before31st October 2010. There is nocash alternative. The stay includesdinner, bed and breakfast onlyand must be taken from Sundayto Thursday inclusive, excludingBank Holidays, and subject toavailability. Transport and anyother items not specified hereare not included. All entries mustarrive by 31st May 2010, marked ‘Foresters LakeDistrict hotel competition’, and contain the entrant’scontact details. The winner will be the first entry with thecorrect answer picked from the hat on 1st June 2010.No more clutter prize draw, page 25: All entriesmust arrive by 31st May 2010, marked ‘Foresters Nomore clutter prize draw’, and contain the entrant’scontact details. The winner will be the first name withthe correct entry picked from the hat on 1st June 2010.Pippa Greenwood offer, page 27: Buy one ofPippa Greenwood’s grow-your-own packages fromher website www.pippagreenwood.com and you’llreceive a free, signed copy of Pippa Greenwood’sGardening Year. Don’t forget to write ‘The Foresteroffer’ in the instructions box on ordering. This offercloses on 30th April.Crossword: All entries must arrive by 31st May 2010,marked ‘Foresters crossword competition’, and containthe entrant’s contact details. The winner and runnersupwill be drawn on 1st June 2010.Previous winners: For the names of any winners ofprevious competitions, please send an SAE to: TheForester, Specialist, Clifton Heights, Triangle West,Bristol BS8 1EJ.It’s time for Colin’s crossword again. We all love Colin’spuzzles, but did you know that the most prolific crosswordcompiler is a man named Roger Squires, of Ironbridgein Shropshire. In 2007 Roger published his 66,666thcrossword, equivalent to two million clues. He’s evenproduced a 3D crossword that fits on a Rubik’s Cube!colin’s crossword (no 72)ACROSS01. A set of steps in a wall or fence to allowpassage (5)04. Our money – pounds and _ _ _ _ _ (5)10. The top of the milk (5)11. Headquarters of the local fire service (7)12. A native or inhabitant of Athens (8)13. _ _ _ _ of Man, island in the Irish Sea (4)15. Holder with a spike or socket for a candle (11)19. Last word in church/at the end of a prayer (4)20. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ key, used to switch on a car (8)23. An enthusiastic reception, prolongedapplause (7)24. Two words on a sign that show a house isavailable for rent (2,3)25. Awareness, perception, understanding (5)26. Man-made fibre used in clothing, andparticularly ladies’ stockings (5)7Across1. Maths4. Space10. Prong11. Elevens12. Training13. Once1 2 3 4 5 610 1112151615. Teaspoonful19. Host20. Entry fee23. Spender24. Awake25. Adder26. TenthSOLUTION TO CROSSWORD no 71Down2. Aroma3. Highness5. Peel6. Clean7. Spite8. Sean Connery✁✁DOWN02. Molars and incisors (5)03. Popular drink mixed with beer to makeshandy (8)05. Short for examination (4)06. Fish and _ _ _ _ _, a favourite nationaldish (5)07. Vast expanse of sea, as Atlantic (5)08. Person who deals with the management,lease and sale of a property (6,5)09. Go down on knees, as in prayer (5)14. Harshly, severely or rigourously (8)16. The typical or normal amount (7)17. Eaten at breakfast with egg; streakyor smoked (5)18. To make whole/join together (5)21. A dome-shaped house in the snow (5)22. Title of an unmarried woman or girl (4)8 917 1819 20 212223 2425 2614139. Ashes14. Increase16. East end17. Chess18. Fever21. Feast22. EdgeWell done toKath Norkett,from Drayton inOxfordshire,who won lastissue’s crosswordcompetition✁