Hi everyone, life has been very hectic at the Centre in the run up to World Aids Day with lots of moneyboxes and red ribbons going out to our willing collectors. Sarah has been skilfully organising the volunteers for all the events. Let’s hope we can collect lots of money for our funds.

Drop in Service Over the last 2 months the drop in has been quite busy with a high of 10 people and an average of 7 people. The new volunteers have now run the drop in at regular intervals.

Events and Socials Anne Webster has finally judged the gardening planters with the first prize going to Dennis for his beautiful tubs. As all the tubs were of a high standard Anne felt it was only fair that everyone who took part received a prize. Dennis was last seen with two big bottles of Bucks Fizz heading off into the sunset.

The trip to the Blackpool lights and sights, and Manchester nightlife went very well. Eleven of us arrived at Blackpool but ten left for Manchester as we lost one to an amorous man. Some of us went on the Big One and Valhalla while others went to the local watering hole. By the time we got to Manchester, all of us had had our fortunes told by Andrew “ the Gipsy Rose Lee” of Buddies, and were ready for a little light refreshment. We then went to different locations for the rest of the evening to have a dance, drink or a quiet chat. By the time 2.30 am came around everyone was ready to come home. All had a good night.

The boat trip on Saturday 30th September was such a contrast to the one we went on in June. It was a lovely day, so peaceful with lots of food and drink. We went from Denford, near Leek into the Churnet Valley with Brian at the tiller and me preparing the food below in the galley. People said it was one of the best trips we had been on. It was really nice to see some new people taking part and they said they would certainly be coming next year.

One final note is that I wish to thank everyone who has helped me with my work last year.

I cannot beeeelive it!! Where did our summer go? Or even the autumn? The dark cold nights and gloomy grey days are here with a vengeance! But do not fear! Here at the centre the heating is on, the kettle steaming and the smile is warm-promise!

It has once again been a very busy few months. The women have enjoyed a residential weekend in Malvern, organised by Barnardo’s. It was a much needed relaxing break away from the rat race. The group have also been out for lunch and used the time to exchange idea’s for future meetings and activities. Dudley HIV centre have invited the woman’s group to an information day around resistance testing. This will be held in January. I will keep everyone informed.

The children’s TNT Club has had two recent after school activities. This week we made Christmas hats ready for the Children’s Christmas Party on the 16th! This particular activity was rather messy to say the least, tinsel, glitter, glue, paint etc. So I am very sorry all parents/guardians if your treasures came home looking rather ‘seasonal’! We have recently received a very generous donation from a local caravan club, who have asked for it to be spent on Christmas pressies for the TNT club members. May I express our sincere thanks to them for this — it will enable each child to receive a present on the day of the party.

Finally, as you are aware World Aids Day theme for 2000 was “Men make a difference”. I would like to say a big thank you to all those men who back in the early eighties stood up and bravely battled on behalf of so many people to draw attention to HIV, the facts, the discrimination encountered and the stigma experienced. Some positive women live with male partners; some of the men are infected by HIV some not. Many women find the support they receive from these men is invaluable. So well done chaps!Here’s to the future!

Until next time, Take care