The National Memorial Arboretum is set in the pleasant countryside of Staffordshire, between the towns of Lichfield and Burton-upon-Trent. The Arboretum provides a living and lasting focus for remembrance essentially for those who have lost their lives or suffered in the service of their country, it is also a haven of peace and contemplation where visitors can both enjoy and learn about the trees and their surroundings and reflect upon their special symbolism. The location benefits from a unique wildlife habitat, bordered on one side by the banks of the River Tame.

A garden was created within the confines of the site by Lichfield 41 Club and a monument at the garden’s centre carries both the Round Table Roundel along with that of 41 Club. Richard is pictured here with Area 33 National Councillor Mike Routledge as they visited the ’41 Club Garden’ with a group of Tablers and Circlers from the Southend-on-Sea 2004 National Conference Team.

Prior to the visit Richard had joined with his colleagues and partners from the Southend-on-Sea Team for a weekend reunion that included past NALC Presidents Tracey Wilkinson and Sue Jay (Powell) and past National Conference Officer, Paul Jay. Paul and Sue had taken on the mantle of organising the weekend in Lichfield following the success of the previous year’s event in Halifax. A fantastic time was had by all as memories of ‘The Best Conference Ever’ were rekindled in a hail of red and white!