News & Publications

Norfolk Branch Conference

‘On 20 June 2025 I welcomed Clerks and Councillors from across Norfolk to my own branch Annual Conference at Norwich City Football Club in the heart of Norwich.

‘We all had a great day and the sun shone on us throughout as we heard from a variety of speakers on several topics.  Presentations included the Leader of Norfolk County Council explaining Devolution plans, Rob Smith gave an update on current SLCC matters and we welcomed Hans Rijs from VVG to hear all about being a Griffier in Holland.

‘As well as great speakers we had sector related exhibitors who took the time out to explain their products and also had plenty of freebies for all.

‘There was a good buzz in the room and lots of opportunities to mingle over lunch and network with colleagues old and new.

‘Thanks to Neil our ever efficient Branch Secretary and all members of the Executive Committee.’

Devon and Cornwall Branches Joint Meeting

‘I made the very long trip from Norwich to Launceston in Cornwall to join the members of both the Devon and Cornwall branches at their joint meeting on 25 June 2025.  The meeting was held in the historic Launceston Town Hall which also incorporates the beautiful Guild Hall.

‘We were all warmly welcomed by Mark Williams, Chairman of Cornwall Branch and Carl Hearn, Chairman of Devon Branch.  A packed Agenda followed with multiple speakers on a wide variety of topics.  Rob Smith gave a full update on current SLCC matters and there were presentations on external funding bids and the hot topic of Devolution. Jonathan Bennett from iBabs told us about his meeting management programme and also kindly sponsored a delicious lunch for us all.

‘The day continued with a very interesting session with multiple pre-submitted questions ably explained by various representatives from Stephens Scown LLP.  The afternoon ended with the formal branch meeting and an open forum session.

‘This was by far the biggest branch meeting I have attended with around 100 Clerks in attendance and it was great to see everyone fully engaged and enthusiastic.  It was certainly very busy throughout and I would like to thank both the Chairmen and all the members for inviting me.’

Sussex Branch Meeting

‘On 26 June 2025 I spent a lovely day visiting the Sussex branch whose meeting was held in the delightful setting of Highdown Towers next to Highdown Gardens in Goring by Sea.

‘Julie Holden, Branch Chairman, opened the meeting and there were several Clerks in attendance. As well as branch matters, we received an update from Trevor Leggo, CEO of West and East Sussex ALC which was interesting.  Steve Trice, fellow Board Director and member of Sussex branch, gave an informative presentation on the White Ribbon Organisation which was great to see as this is one of my chosen charities and close to my heart.

‘There was a lot of ideas coming forward and everyone was engaged throughout the morning.

‘As the meeting concluded there was an optional lunch and walk around the beautiful Highdown Gardens.

‘Thanks to Julie Holden, Chairman, and all the Sussex members for a very warm welcome and an enjoyable day.’

Gina Lopes PSLCC, SLCC President