AGM 2008

The Institution of Fire Engineers 2008 AGM, Conference & Exhibition 2-3 July 2008

"The Institution's AGM, Conference and Exhibition took place at the De Vere Herons' Reach, Blackpool on the 2nd and 3rd July. The two day event was attended by around 200 delegates and exhibitors with many describing it as "the best AGM/Conference for years!"

Presentations on the theme "Innovation in Community Risk Reduction - Prevention, Protection and Emergency Response" by speakers from around the world were enthusiastically received by the international audience.

The evening social programme provided a very enjoyable networking opportunity. At Wednesday's informal buffet, entertainment was provided by the superb Lancashire Youth Jazz Orchestra and on Thursday evening "Cameo Strings" quartet provided elegant background music at the International President's Dinner. We are delighted to announce that The Firefighters Charity prize draw raised £1,210.

The venue provided excellent conferencing and leisure facilities and many have already indicated that they will be attending the 2009 AGM, Conference and Exhibition in Glasgow.

Thank you to our sponsors, delegates, exhibitors, speakers, members of the Board and General Assembly and staff for making this year's AGM a tremendous success.

Result of the 2008 Ballot for the Board of Directors

Six excellent nominations for the Board of Directors were received for three vacancies. It is very encouraging to see that almost 1200 votes were cast. The results were announced at the AGM on 2nd July 2008. Consequently we welcome Russell James to the Board of Directors for the first time and welcome back John Judd and Bill Cox. Thank you to all six nominees for their commitment to the Institution and to all members who voted in the ballot.

Leader and Vice Leader of the General Assembly Announced

Following the ballot held at the meeting of the General Assembly on 30th June 2008, we are delighted to announce that Neil Gibbins has been elected as Leader and Tony Lawson as Vice Leader of the General Assembly. Many thanks to all nominees. We would like to express our thanks to Peter Holland and Jim Marsden who have made such a tremendous contribution as Leader and Vice Leader in taking forward the important role of the General Assembly.