Andrew Thomson chaired the final meeting the year, and as so often happens, in event of small attendance, enthusiam triumphs to produce a successful meeting. The fervour of debate: speaking wih concviction, one of the qualities of the art of speaking in public practised at the club, was inspired by the subject of the European Union,in particular Great Britain`s continued membership–or not ! A minority of a sole member, in favour of this country’s continued membership, was demonstrated, as, to begin,the opinion of those present,was noted. There followed , expessed with emotion, and eager acceptance of the oportunity to speak on this subject, using skills learned and nurtured at our meetings, a succession of speakers voicing opinion on a diverse range of appertaining factors entreated by eurosceptics; our sovereignty, national character, independence, economic survival: from Ben Harris our youngest member,to those of the club President, Doug Weale,who recalled Churchillian passion his views on the subject.
Then, up spoke the sole minority; Trevor Kenning; with the skilled, persuasive oratory learned from his thirty-something years of membership: by reasoned logic and powerful declamation, he demolished all the opposition by his conviction of continued E.U.membership. There is-he reasoned- no suggestion of a challenge to our sovereignty, or our national character. Consider the alternatives, he urged:.are we strong enough to go it alone ?: After this inspiring session of speaking, by all present, there followed in the second half,chaired by Ben Harris, a more relaxed impromptu speaking hour on “topics”; a challenging and enjoyable regular item on the agenda. Such absorbing entertainment at our regular meetings can be sampled by visitors who will be made welcome at a specially convened Open Evening on February 24th next year, at which all aspects of our skills will be presented. For details please contact Doug Weale 01843 592221 or dougweale@dougweale.plus.com or website http://www.thanetspeakers.org.uk