Mr Chris Gibbs, who has been Chair of the Council of Trustees of the Trust for eight years, stepped down from the post at the Annual General Meeting which was held at Broadstairs on the 19th of November.  Mr. Simon Perry, who has been a member of the Council of Trustees for five years, was elected as Chair at the meeting. The Trustees and guests welcomed Simon as the new Chair and on handing over, a presentation was made to Chris and he was warmly thanked for his long service in the role.

The meeting heard reports from the officers and Emma Boast, the Director of the Trust, gave a round up of the year’s commercial and educational activities and thanked the many volunteers who have assisted in delivering another year of important research and education in Thanet’s archaeology.

Following the meeting, Deputy Director Ges Moody, gave a presentation on a future strategy for The Trust. A key proposal was to actively develop a role for archaeology in Thanet’s growing Heritage community.Practical steps to encouraging interest in Thanet’s archaeological heritage would be the production of a locally focused book series, building on the success of the Trust’s Underground Thanet publication. Renewed emphasis on connecting people with their heritage through engagement with the Trusts collection of artefacts, which would include hands on activities and workshops, would also be a significant element of the future strategy.
A useful discussion and informal exchange of ideas followed with the participants, who included representatives of the Isle of Thanet archaeological society, volunteers and other active members of Thanet’s archaeological community.