There were three people honoured at the AGM of the Abingdon and District Volunteer Drivers – held at 35 Ock Street this evening.

Bill Andrew, has served for over 24 years. In the last 8 months he was the most prolific driver and got 84 drives done. After retiring from the RAF he also used to borrow a white Rolls Royce to chauffeur people to weddings, and took donations for Barnardos rather than payment.

Brian Keaney has also done 24 years. Bill started on 2nd October 1995 and Brian on 4th October 1995.

Sue Stevens has done over 20 years. Not only do these three people drive but they have also helped in the office.

There were other volunteer drivers and office staff at the meeting. The Mayor of Abingdon-on-Thames, Cllr Charlie Birks, thanked them all for their many hours of service to the community. Most frequent journeys are to the JR and Marcham Road hospitals.

Malvin Drakley was voted in as the new chairman. He is another ex RAF person and well known as one of the people who run the Country Market. (Malvin did 75 drives in the last 8 months.)

Dave is selling tickets for the Kingfisher Christmas Draw to raise money for the new canoe hut at Abingdon Lock. He is selling tickets from davidsurman@hotmail.com or they can be bought easily from Annie`s at Abingdon Bridge ,or from Richard and Frank at Abingdon Lock. They will also be available on the Kingfisher Canoe Club stand at The Abingdon Christmas Extravaganza on Saturday November 30th.

Dave says We are now working hard to raise the remainder of the funds needed for the structure to ensure the sustainability of the 45 + year tradition of community canoeing in Abingdon. £5 for a book of 5 tickets . Oodles of good prizes,donated by well wishers.

We are really grateful to Christ`s Hospital Abingdon who showed their support for what we are trying to do in the form of a significant  grant. Huge thanks to all in the community who have and continue to support us.

The pictures are a couple of those taken in June during the Canoe Club Blastathon at Abingdon Weir.