THE NORTH DORSET TRAILWAY NETWORK
Report of the Annual General Meeting 2023
The North Dorset Trailway Network (NDTN) held its Annual General Meeting in Stourpaine Village Hall on 21st November 2023. The meeting was attended by the Network’s 9 Trustees and 14 guests.
The Chairman, Joe Hickish. reported on the Network’s activities during the previous year. Work had, as always, been focussed on the issues related to extending the Trailway both North, from Sturminster Newton to Stalbridge, and South, from Spetisbury to Sturminster Marshall . He expressed some disappointment that the Dorset Plan remained undetermined, and this did not help in adding strength to the Network’s endeavours.
He expressed his gratitude for the work of his fellow Trustees over the year, and particularly thanked Scott Norman, his predecessor as Chairman, who was standing down after many years as a Trustee. He also expressed his thanks to Graham Stanley, Dorset County Senior Ranger, and his team, for all they do to support the Network’s activities.
The Chairman was happy to report the addition of the nature reserve alongside the Milldown in Blandford Forum, acquired by Dorset Council, which is a further attraction for people using the Trailway.
Following the formal business when all existing Trustees, apart from Scott Norman who was standing down, were re-elected, and Rosie Gall was elected and welcomed as a new Trustee, the Chairman was pleased to introduce Kevin Humphreys, a Transport Planner from Dorset Council.
Kevin gave a lively talk, supported by a visual presentation about his role, and how it links with the Rangers, relating to planning and non-motorised transport. He was aware that urban areas attract more funding, and his department was restricted by policy frameworks.
Graham Stanley gave all attending a PowerPoint presentation focussing on the flora and fauna along the length of the Trailway. Wildlife ranged from large mammals (included claims of sightings of a ‘big cat’) to tiny glow-worms.
The Chairman expressed his thanks to the two speakers, and in closing the meeting wished all those attending well.