APPRECIATIVE applause from members of Royal Wootton Bassett Historical Society reflected their gratitude to Dr Bob Clarke, who has retired as President after a decade of service that has featured many talks and expeditions to historical sites.

Mike Halliwell, who chaired the January meeting at the meeting hall above the Conservative Club, thanked Bob for his splendid efforts during his term of office. The retirement was also an opportunity for Dr Clarke's final talk - an excellent exploration, over the centuries, of Scarborough, where he spent some years and for which he has special affection. The illustrated survey highlighted many fascinating aspects of that part of England and provided a most interesting evening for the enthusiastic audience.

The recent appointment of additional committee members and plans for a very absorbing programme of talks, augurs well for the future of this long-established, popular society whose slogan is "looking forward to the past." Dr Clarke wished the society continued success.

Mike Halliwell presented a framed certificate to Dr Clarke from the committee, in their appreciation of his service to the society. The wording states, 'This certificate is awarded to Dr. Bob Clarke in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the work of the Society, as President, Speaker and Committee Member. The Society's success and sustainability has been made possible by his dedication and promotion of history, the giving of many talks and his very active support and management of the Society over many years.'