The weekend of 12th April saw four intrepid West Cumbria CAMRA members make the long trek to Exeter University for the CAMRA Members’ weekend and National AGM. Perhaps surprisingly none of us had been to an AGM before (yes that’s where the virgins come into it!!)

In addition to the meetings where various motions were discussed, there were workshops, trips, a guest speaker (the head brewer at St Austell), and a beerex. Of the 26 motions discussed, most passed without too much debate. However one that caused great amusement and not a little consternation was the suggestion that the Committee should pose for a calendar, as per the WI ‘Calendar Girls’. This motion was passed - you have been warned!!

Workshops included a discussion about allocation of pub entries in the GBG. This was attended by over 150 members and saw some very lively debate. Cumbria’s feelings about the reduction in the number of entries were well represented, but it is difficult to say what, if any, effect this will have.

The beerex offered 70 beers, all sourced from the West Country, so one could be forgiven for not venturing too far. However our intrepid band took the bus to Topsham to sample the pubs there. The best pub was the Bridge Inn, which served a number of quality ales drawn on gravity direct from the cellar.

Next year’s AGM is to be held at Southport, and I recommend a visit.

Stephen Walker