Chairman’s Report

Since the last report we have had the AGM and surprise, surprise we still have the same committee, who will I know do their best for the Musketeers for the next twelve months.

We should have had a talk from the North Staffs Carers for our April Meeting, but due to illness this was cancelled at short notice.  We went ahead with the meeting as we had a buffet to deal with.  This we tackled manfully and everyone went home feeling much refreshed.

I am having to write this a bit early this quarter in order not to get a black mark from Sara, as we are off on holiday, and the May meeting will be held while we are away but it should be an interesting evening.

Looking forward to seeing you at meetings during the summer, especially the one with partners in July.

Fund spending

As we are supposed to be coming to the warm summer months we have a selection of activities for you (not many yet, though),

In July we have places booked on a steam train ride with a buffet and jazz band included. This should be something a bit different for us.

August is to be our guided walk. This time we hope to walk round Knypersley Pool followed by a buffet at our house. We look forward to seeing you all there.

September still has to be decided but as soon as I have some information I will let you know.

We are coming towards the end of our current grant so I am having to look around again. I will keep you posted with developments.

Looking forward to seeing you at some, if not all, our meetings.

MOMENTUM

 WHAT KEEPS US GOING?  The voluntary enthusiasm of those who gain satisfaction from contributing to the welfare of their fellows – and this is not the Victorian ethic of the God-fearing philanthropist who seeks entry at St. Peter’s Gate.  It is the deeper and more human sensibility which marks us out as being higher than animals.  We might add to this the belief that it is morally right to help to ease the plight of those who suffer.

Because some people feel that way, our Branch parades successfully on and is a credit to the dedicated members whose shoulders are applied constantly to the wheel of progress.  The more creditably they perform, the more we wish to retain their unstinting services.

“Steady as you go”, as they say in the Royal Navy… and our vessel surges on whatever the state of the surrounding seas, and we, the passengers, enjoy the relaxation of the cruise.  But, look around!  Where are those who will be needed to take the helm and pick up the ropes when our gallant officers seek rest or are forced by the fatigue of age to retire?

Do you think that America would have prospered as its Founding Fathers fondly hoped had those same men of vision not been followed by generations of similarly equipped leaders?  Do you think that a club might still head the League after a skilful team has gone to the big stadium in the sky without replacement by equally gifted players?

Our Musketeers group has been extremely successful from the start and such vitality reflects the dedication of its members and officers.  Activities and jolly outings, all at no cost, have continued to justify the aspirations of its founders.  It is not an exclusive organization, yet its membership remains largely static.  The mystery defies simple explanation.  Perhaps our image is less attractive than we imagine it to be.  Perhaps there are other things of greater interest.  Perhaps…..what?   Is there a generation gap?  Has apathy insinuated its stultifying toxin so firmly as to render its victims incapable?  Hands up, those of you who can see where the solution lies!

A NEW BEGINING

When my wife was first diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis I realised that it would change life for both of us, and when I decided that it would be best to stay at home and look after here, I was glade that I had The Musketeers as a support group.

I attended the inaugural meeting of The Musketeers at the Wayfarer and I thought that the venue augured well for the future.

Like tops ,the group grew ,and with other members we evolved into a carers group who care for each other.

The activities and outings we arrange give us all something to look forward to, and to socialise with fellow carers who understand our situation is sometimes all we need.

They are also there when needed for company and support

Carer's Information

The following website contains lots of  helpful information and advice for carers

 The Government’s directory of   information for carers     www.carers.gov.uk

Carer’s Commandments

1. Thou shalt not try to be all things to all people
2 Thou shalt not be perfect, or even try
3 Thou shalt leave things undone that ought to be done
4 Thou shalt not spread thyself too thin
5 Thou shalt learn to say no
6 Thou shalt schedule time for thyself and thy supportive network
7 Thou shalt switch off and do nothing regularly
8 Thou shalt be boring, inelegant, untidy and unattractive at times
9 Thou shalt not feel guilty
10 Thou shalt not be thine own worst enemy
 

Wolesley Centre

The Centre is set in 26 acres of former landscape gardens which was the ancestoral home of the Wolesley family. The site has a number of easily accessible walks taking in the three lakes, riverside and many other habitats. An impressive range of birds inhabit the site as well as aquatic mammals and reptiles. We have a great selection of trees with one that dates back to the 1770s. Our Visitor Centre includes a shop, information room, environmental education facilities ideal for teachers and schools and conference facilities for businesses to hire.

The site is open for pedestrians 24 hours a day with the car park and visitor centre open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday (Weekends from Easter to November).

The site is located next to Wyevale garden centre off the A51 at Wolseley Bridge. We have ample car parking, coach parking, cycle racks, a bus stop outside and footpaths from the road so we're easy to visit however you choose to get here.

StaffordshireWildlife Trust
The Wolseley Centre
Wolseley Bridge
Stafford
ST17 0WT