Meanwhile at the Society's AGM which took place on the same day, James Hyslop was elected to join the committee. James has experience in two of the key areas represented by our membership: the Heritage sector and the Auctions world. He has worked for the Whipple Museum of the History of the Science in Cambridge but is now a specialist in science and exploration for Christies the auctioneers in London. The third key area is that of the amateur collector or enthusiast and the first decision of the new committee was to co-opt Michael Stewart to help represent these members. In other changes Peter de Clercq stood down formally as Meetings Secretary (though he will remain on committee). In order to facilitate this within the terms of the constitution Neil Handley was elected to the revived position of Vice Chairman. Joyce Shaw takes over from him as Secretary.

In November your Committee also co-opted Nigel Parkinson to serve on it. Nigel is a science teacher and private collector from Oxfordshire. He will be well known to many members as a regular attender at our conferences, both at home and abroad. We look forward to his contribution.