MARCH - The year kicked off with two visits to the Pipe of Port, a wine bar in Southend. So popular was this venue that having filled one coach Annette (Social Secretary), decided to arrange a second trip.  Members enjoyed a fine meal (the P of P is renowned for its home-made pies), in the candle-lit surroundings. The wine cellar, complete with sawdust on the floor has become a popular haunt of members and as ever the service was excellent with very pleasant staff tending to their every need. The combination of candlelight and sawdust in a cellar is reminiscent of the 'fifties and generates a unique feeling which patrons find creates a convivial atmosphere. Unfortunately, no photographs of either of the evenings were taken. (Report: Brian Leith)