FRIENDS, volunteers and supporters of a charity that records an audio version of the Hampshire Chronicle for blind and partially-sighted people in Winchester met to share a cup of tea and hear more about the past year.
The gathering was held at Littleton Millennium Memorial Hall on Thursday, May 18 for the Winchester Talking Newspaper's annual general meeting.
Chairman John Richards spoke to the assembled group about the charity's work over the past year, including its big move from Unit 12 in Winnal into the offices of the Hampshire Chronicle in Upper Brook Street.
READ MORE: Hampshire Chronicle editor supports Winchester Talking Newspaper
The charity switched bases in January after outgrowing its space at Unit 12 and now shares office space with the Hampshire Chronicle's digital marketing brand LOCALiQ on the third floor of the city centre office.
Mr Richards said: "Our new base is lovely. It is spacious, light comfortable and airy. There's plenty of room to walk around. We are not cluttered. We have all the memory sticks and copying machines, it is really first rate. We are so grateful. It is a dream, we are so thankful."
He also thanked all the volunteers who give up their time to help record, edit and distribute the recordings across the city.
He said: "Our thanks go to all the volunteers who work so tirelessly."
Treasurer Peter Liddiard also spoke about the charity's financial situation, which reflected a healthy balance sheet of more than £10,000 in savings and its bank account.
He said that a small amount of income had been made through donations, a collection tin at South Wonston Post Office and some commissioned recording work.
He thanked everyone for their support over the past year.
Mr Richards and Mr Liddiard were both re-elected to their roles of chairman and treasurer.
Kimberley Barber, editor of the Hampshire Chronicle, gave a speech about the newspaper's history and its current working practices before guests enjoyed tea and homemade cake.
SEE ALSO: Winchester Talking Newspaper settles in at Chronicle office
A collection was held for Winchester charity the Beacon, which raised £135.
Michele Price, chief executive of the homeless charity, said: "It was an amazing amount for so few people, thank you for suggesting us, it was much appreciated and such a worthwhile hidden charity for those not able to read."
The Winchester Talking Newspaper records a 90-minute long audio version of the Hampshire Chronicle each week which can be accessed via a memory stick delivered by volunteers, its website and also through Spotify. Search The Hampshire Chronicle Talking Newspaper on Spotify to listen or go to winchestertalkingnews.com/
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