Without a bonfire to occupy ourselves, 2006 has again seemed to have been a relatively quiet year for The Cavaliers. – but another review of the year’s minutes shows again that we haven’t rested on our laurels, but have contributed much to the local community.

The February torchlight Procession and our involvement in the organisation and the fireworks are well acknowledged by The CDT. The fireworks set off by Steve Barnes were good, apart from one hic-cup. Unfortunately a similar incident happened this year and a review must take place to ensure safety for our members and the general public. It was close to being a serious accident.

Mayfair was, once again, a great success with the circus theme on the Thursday and then of course Carnival.
We were acknowledged by being presented The Mayor’s Community Award Certificate.

June saw our cricket challenge with Weare Gifford on a blazing hot day, It was a great success and we are hoping for a return match this year.

In July we were asked at very short notice to help with The Torrington Tales Play on the Commons – supplying marquees, fencing and security.

Dick and Dave’s Tarka challenge was our biggest fund raiser of the year – and, as was said at the time – it is amazing what can be arranged on the back of a fag packet whilst pi**ed. We pledged donations of £4000 to the two Cancer Charities.

The November Bonfire was successful, and although the firework display was over quite quickly, it was quality.

This took us to Christmas- with the Big Sing / Sweet giveaway/ NYE and the Christmas Light project where Nick High Viz and Dave Marker took a leading role in the design, fitting and maintenance.

Our latest project, on the verge of completion, is the Skateboard Park which Lee has led. This is another superb result and it is great to see it being made good use of.

We’ve had our losses and scares too and, of course, we still miss Vernon and the unique “thing” he brought to The Cavaliers; and another Hon Cavalier George Clarke passed on.
We are delighted though that Dick and Dave, who both had their moments last year are recovered.

My thanks to the Officers who have carried out their duties in an excellent manner and to all those Cavaliers who have rallied to the call in helping in whatever way throughout the year. ‘Horses for Courses’.
My personal thanks once again to Dick for his help, guidance and advice through some tricky moments.

I have been in the post now for exactly 6 years and 1 week to the day, and am as proud and committed now as I was all that time ago when first “tentatively” accepted to stand as Chairman.
I hope I have served The Cavaliers well and I have enormous respect for all members. I will continue to offer 100% support to you all again in this current year – if you will have me serve you again.

Finally. A closing quote by my good friend Detective Inspector Rebus.

“ making money is easy….making a difference is the challenge “

I am sure that The Great Torrington Cavaliers do.
Chris Stacey
Chairman 22.02.07