Monday 12th November

It is so satisfying to attend a meeting with a strong membership. Two score attendance - two new people - and a terrific evening. Well done to the speakers - Dylan gave a strong speech advocating the abolishment almost of the car, whilst Jeannie and Stanley gave very different speeches about air travel. Oliver rounded off the speeches with his work at home and avoid the tube plea. It is worth noting that one of the more difficult speeches is recognised as Level 8 - humour. Stanley's speech was uncharacteristically light-hearted and more than met the requirements for that level. A good pass albeit that level 6 and 7 have yet to be mastered.
Topics took us into our memories of the last time.... in my case jogging! An interesting and inspiring session ably led by Anna who was doing the role for the first time. There are always opportunities to stretch and challenge yourself.... take them! You know the saying about ships being safe in habour... but that is not what a ship is for...... It is fun and entertaining to listen to speeches... but so much more satisfying to deliver a speech, undertake a role and become an active member. Croydon Speakers continues to provide a fantastic experience for speakers at any level. All you need to do.... is come along on the 2nd or 4th Monday of the month.

Team Speaking Competition

Sunday 4th November saw the District team speaking competition. 5 teams from around the District competed in what was to prove a very close competition. Let me say now that we did not win... and let me say now that not winning is not important. The reason for that is that our team members all gave speeches that were 'personal bests'. The top teams were so close that only a point or two separated them. But I know that our team members felt a real buzz when they had finished speaking. It was great that the other teams excelled as well. The standard was higher than previous years by some measure. We welcomed some familiar faces, and plenty of new speakers. Such was the atmosphere, that new speakers were not intimidated but instead lifted their game. There were opportunities for all levels of speaker, interesting and often amusing speeches and the afternoon was a total success. Congratulations to the winning team from West Kent, and to the winner of the individual cup. Most of all though, congratulations to all our club members who literally shone. We remain the strongest club overall in the district, we encourage new members at all levels and we have a great deal of fun. Come along and find out - 2nd and 4th Mondays.