Erskine Writers

 Erskine Writers Club AGM

Twelve members attended the Annual General Meeting of Erskine Writers Group, apologies being received from Lorna and Donnie.

The minutes from the AGM held on 24th September 2024 and were proposed as being correct by Sandra M and seconded by Jeannie.

The President’s report, given by Sandra, emphasised the importance of the club, not only to encourage creative writing but also as a haven of friendship, support and wellness. She praised all members especially those who had had work published throughout the year and referred to the ongoing problems of recruitment and premises. The report was proposed as being correct by Brian and seconded by Rob.

Rob’s secretary’s report gave a chronological history of the year - guest writers, workshops etc - and also gave a detailed account of successes both outwith the the confines of the group and in regard to our in-house competitions. He referred to the average number of attendees and gave some indication as to syllabus planning for the future. The report was proposed as being accurate by Joan and seconded by Brian.

It was with great sadness that Sandra read out Donnie’s Treasurer’s report. Due to ongoing health issues, Donnie has found it difficult and had decided to relinquish his role as treasurer and his stalwart service to the club was noted and our good wishes were passed on to him. The details of our financial situation were highlighted as were the strictures being placed upon it by our current premises at the Sports Centre. The report was deemed as being correct by John H and seconded by Jackie.

Morag has agreed to continue as Competitions Secretary but gave notice that this was to be her last year and members were encouraged to consider replacing her at the beginning of the 2026-27 Session.

Sandra will continue as President and Rob as Secretary. Nominations were asked for Donnie’s successor as Treasurer and, after some debate, Irene agreed she would consider it. Rob is to forward a specific minute from the AGM to Irene which should allow her to gain access to our financial records as the second signatory. The idea is that, due to bank charges, we leave the Bank of Scotland and take our account to the Post Office. Irene agreed to investigate how the Post Office operates and, on the 4th November at an arranged EGM, present her findings and give us her decision as to whether or not she takes on the role. 

The ongoing problem of premises was discussed. As from October 7th we will be meeting at the Bishopton Library and members are advised that our hours have changed somewhat and we will be STARTING AT 2.00pm and FINISHING AT 4.00pm. Whereas we are confirmed in the library, other options consider to be discussed as it can only host us three weeks out of four. John H will investigate Erskine Bowls Club and other venues such as church halls were put forward as potential venues for the ‘odd week’. There was also the possibility of Zoom meetings which were popular during the Covid confinement.

Jeannie told the club of her intention to leave and become a postal member as she establishes and leads a wellness group in Johnstone. The club thanked her for her commitment as a member, her leadership as President and wished her well for the future.

Continued thanks were intimated to Donnie for his work as treasurer.

Morag highlighted the fact that entries for this year’s Poetry Competition are to be with her by 7th October. They can be in any genre - maximum 40 lines long - and can be on any subject.

John H asked members from specific requests for the first workshop which is to be held on 28th October when Roge Glass works on memoir and biography.

Members were also reminded that John M’s book launch is being held at Gavin’s Mill, Milngavie on Thursday 2nd October 7.00-8.30pm, tickets from the venue.

Finally, next week, 30th September we have a field visit to the Burrell Collection and members are asked to MEET IN THE FOYER at 1.00pm.It is intended that  we will conclude at 2.30 with tea/coffee in the cafe. I have room in my car if anyone needs a lift. A piece of writing inspired by the visit will be the homework for our first meeting at Bishopton Library on October 7th.