THE April programme commenced with an excellent talk by past chairman Stan Kilby on his career as a veterinary surgeon.

Commencing in 1965 at a practice in Devon before moving and helping to control the devastating foot and mouth outbreak which occurred during 1967 in the north of the country, he eventually joined a practice in Worcestershire.

During this period he became heavily involved with the Bewdley Safari Park which opened in the 1970s and was appointed their official veterinary surgeon.

This was a new learning curve for all attached to this project.

He explained that although treating wild animals is not so different as treating domestic animals, the danger aspect and catching of various species brought new challenges.

The setting up of this park, like any new venture, had its teething troubles, and it was most interesting to learn how various species in the wild can live together and those that will not.

Those visiting the park today reap the benefit of much of this earlier work, making for a very pleasant day out.

A vote of thanks given on behalf of members by present chairman Steve Dowling requested that Stan may like to give another talk on other aspects of his career in the near future.

Members meet at the Environmental Centre, Pope Iron Road, every Thursday and at present are open to new members, please telephone 01905 820460.

R P STEPHENS