Our 2022 AGM, held at Matlock’s Imperial Rooms on the 1 October, was able to review a successful year for VCH in Derbyshire.
The meeting heard that highlights of the year included the successful launch of our latest spin-off book on Hasland and successful sales of both this publication and the earlier ‘Chesterfield and Streets and Houses’.
Finances were also reported to be in good shape, by our Treasurer Cathrin Wharton. Membership numbers are relatively stable.
County editor, Philip Riden, commented that our publications strategy was now being concentrated on the spin-off titles, such as the Hasland book, with work actively progressing on Wingerworth and another volume on Temple Normanton and Calow. He paid tribute to continued support from our members along with work by volunteers. Also highlighted was the contribution to VCH made by David Edwards which had resulted in the Wingerworth volume being substantially complete. Philip also commented that the Hasland book was nearing a sell-out position.
Our publicity officer, Philip Cousins, reported on increased social media activity and the excellent coverage achieved locally for the Hasland book launch.
Chairman Lyn Pardo Roques oversaw the meeting, with Secretary Becky Sheldon providing administration and IT support. This year, unlike 2021, we did not stream the meeting as there was little demand to do this. All existing Trust officers were re-elected.
As has been the case in previous years, the morning saw the AGM of the Derbyshire Record Society, with lunch provided jointly by VCH and the Society.
After the business meeting Award winning buildings archaeologist James Wright gave a well-received talk about ‘Late Mediaeval Great Houses in the East Midlands’. The meeting closed with questions to Dr Wright followed by light refreshments.
- A minute’s silence was taken at the meeting following news of the death of Miriam Wood, who had been a VCH stalwart since reinauguration of the project in Derbyshire and a committee member. Dr Wood will be well-known for her outstanding contribution to local history in the county.
