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The food was good although some of the Turkey dinners were cold, but they were soon changed for hot ones.

We had quite a turnout last Friday for our social evening. Our guest was George Gill from the local Rotary club who judged those that had dared to dress up.

Several members were wearing masks ( I think !) and there was a guy who everyone thought was the best person to be burnt on bonfire night.

Although a long way to go, a small group of members went to Cadbury World. We got to know Birmingham city centre very well, as we went through it twice. Yes, we got lost, we won't name the navigator, but he's a lorry driver, say no more. The tour round Cadbury World takes about 1^¹/2 hours, and includes free samples of chocolate. You see films of how Cadbury's chocolate were first started, up to the present day, then you walk around the factory. You don't actually see the chocolate being made, but you see it being wrapped and packaged. When the tour is finished you conveniently end up in the Cadbury shop. It was an enjoyable but long day, but a must for chocoholics.

October 11th was a fresh beginning for the day centre in our new premises at the Dilkeswood Centre in South Ockendon.

On a personal note, after the opening ceremony I was presented with a silver star from H.Q for commitment and dedication. This came as a great surprise to me and I still can't believe it. I would like to thank everybody who nominated and supported me and hope in the future to maintain my activities as best I can to warrant my selection.

We set off around 11am on a dull day with the threat of rain not to far away. We made good progress with no problems and were crossing Westminster Bridge to the sound of Big Ben striking 12 noon. We slowly went up to the entrance, and it was obvious the area had seen a lot of recent rain, by the number of puddles. Whilst Marilyn checked in at the ticket office, most of our group were eating their packed lunch or checking the local establishments.

The view from the pod was hampered by the cloud on the horizon, but it was a trip worth going on. It was a change to see the city from a birds eye view but could have been improved if there had been someone with a good knowledge of London with us. After the flight we dispersed with most going to Macdonalds. It was decided amongst ourselves that we would give HMS Belfast a miss but possibly go round the aquarium. We met up after eating but found that there would not be time to go round the aquarium so most people ended up walking around or sitting and talking until our agreed departure time of 4pm.

As storm clouds started gathering, the day began to deteriorate with rain commencing around 3.45 with thunder and lightning following close behind.

A hasty retreat saw the last of our group hastily boarding the minibus. The rain continued for most of the way home and we arrived back at Thurrock Hospital around 5pm.

All in all, a trip worth going on which would have been better with brighter weather.

We started out from Orsett on a bright sunny Saturday morning. The roads were very clear and in no time at all we were at Newmarket.

The back of the coach and ambulance were opened - tables set up - and in no time at all we were enjoying a handsome buffet with plenty of drinks, alcoholic and otherwise.

A great venue for an outing and easily manageable for all including wheelchair users. After this we had a picnic tea which included lots of flans - trifles and gateaux, lots being home made with all fresh fruits.

Well we left at 10.15 in the pouring rain which stayed with us for most of the way until our arrival at 11.30. It did brighten up with only one downpour during our stay until we left just after 3.00.

Whitstable town is bordering on the quaint, with small shops along the high street. It is a pleasant town, unmarred by large commercial shops. Although a small town, there were a lot of people about who seemed very friendly. Some of the group indulged in eating oysters which is a speciality of the town.

We were invited to have a stall at Kilvert’s Field on Grays Carnival Day. We changed from selling our usual craft items to having a tombola stall to see how it went. It proved very successful, and as we hope to hold more like this, can you see if you have any unwanted gifts etc., which could be used on these occasions. Thanks a lot. Joyce.

A very pleasant afternoon which unfortunately ended in rain, but fortunately just when we were preparing to leave. It was nice to walk around the different types of gardens that were set out, but more information could have been given. Only the botanical name was given to identify the plants. The common name and the ideal conditions for growing would have been a bonus.

Some of the areas were not wheelchair friendly, there was a special route given for those in wheelchairs but even this was found to be too difficult in some places.

In summary this was more of a location for the serious gardener. There were helpful assistants in the plant shop, who would probably be able to help. Plus there was the opportunity to buy many of the species seen in the grounds.

Only general views have been given, rather than fill up our site like a plant catalogue.

A party of 26, consisting of members, families and friends, descended upon Thurrock Technical College for a chance to tickle their taste buds with some gourmet cuisine. With choices like chicken liver and bacon tarts to Sea Bass with ginger and a shortbread dessert, which was just mouth-watering, everyone had a great meal and a most enjoyable evening. A special thanks to Pam Hyde whose donation from a sponsorship she raised by taking part in the Flora Light Women's Run was used for expenses. Frank

Our base this year was in the Civic Offices foyer in Grays. The first day was very quiet and led to a bit of disappointment all round. Cake-break day, which followed, was entirely different. We were well supported by staff of the council offices and had some people come in who had read about our awareness day in the local paper. The cakes were enjoyed by all and substantial donations were made. We also managed to sell a few items made in the Day Centre as well as some M.S.Stars and other M.S. merchandise.

We hope we were able to make people more aware of M.S. and our Branch as well as the bonus of raising some funds. Joyce

Held in Laindon Community Hall by Basildon Branch. A thought provoking afternoon commencing with lunch at 1pm of fish or chicken and chips.

Our team consisted of Frank, Lynn, Mike and Rob, with Joyce as reserve. The team were consistant saving their Joker for a later round. Playing their Joker on the 'Only Fools and Horses' round. Basildon eventually won the quiz with Braintree in second and Thurrock in third. We did however win medals for the highest score in the marathon of 48 out of a possible 50. The afternoon was very good with light-hearted banter. Basildon in winning get to stage the quiz next year.

It was unfortunate that only five branches were able to send teams on the day, as many people have missed out on a very enjoyable event. Hopefully if the message gets enough circulation, about how good the event is, not only from the social side, but in getting branches to get together, more branches will field teams next year.

On arrival we found our way to reserved tables overlooking the dog track. After choosing what we wanted for our meal we settled down for the evening. Free drinks were provided so the inner man was well provided for.

Our first bet on the tote was free, so those who won got off to a good start with their finances. As did certain persons, who shall be nameless, who nearly danced on the tables when their winnings went into PAPER money.

During the evening it was requested that 8 members with M.S. go down onto the track ready for the 9th race. This race was called the Thurrock Stakes and the Branch was given a welcome on that page of the programme. The 9th race duly finished and we jointly presented the cup to the winning owner with their dog.

The racing finished at 10.30 p.m. and I must say we were treated very kindly and there were adequate facilities for all types of disability including those in wheelchairs.