IT IS with regret that I am coming to the end of the road as a member of the Okehampton and District Round Table. My reason for writing this letter is to share my thoughts on this worthwhile organisation. For the past ten years at about this time of year I can often be found spending a few evenings wrapped up in a Santa suit collecting for local charitable and worthwhile causes with the Father Christmas float. With this, the occasional photo shoot and the odd mention in the local paper, it seems that people perceive that this is all the organisation does and I would like to take this time to explain how the organisation is a lot more than just this. In the last ten years I have windsurfed and sailed across Roadford Lake, abseiled down the cliffs at Bude, climbed on the rocks of Dartmoor, canoed both off Bude and in Alder Lake, sailed in the Exe estuary and been on numerous treasure hunts, brewery trips and guided tours. I have been paintballing and go-karting at least half a dozen times and have even spent a couple of lovely weekends in Cherbourg, due to Okehampton being twinned with them. Throw in many an evening bowling a skittle, sinking a pool ball, throwing a dart and consuming the odd cold beverage. The Round Table is a non-political organisation and about five times a year we smarten up for a business meeting to sort out affairs and just catch up, bouncing ideas off one another and discussing future plans. Okehampton currently has 13 active members which is excellent as the table was reduced to eight a couple of years ago, but through the hard work of the lads we have expanded. We have also been joined by a few like-minded people who moved into the area who have blended in very well. For me this is the crucial part of table life, regularly meeting friends, old and new and enjoying activities, which as a family man I would never have done on my own. Due to the brilliant organisation of the group these activities are relatively low budget and easily affordable. It has been an honour to be a part of Round Table and I would encourage young men between the ages of 18 and 45 to join, as we could do with more members. So if you are interested either contact Mark Boyland on 01837 811159 or if you know any current members just let them know and you will receive a friendly response. Andy Ewen