The SoFA AGM was attended by over 50 members on Friday 24 April at our usual venue of Christ Church Southport. Frank Hyland, Chairperson, supplied those in attendance with what SoFA has achieved during the last 12 months.

Last year, SoFA met its objectives, with a full programme of talks, events and activities. In addition, members enjoyed a great holiday in Cambridge and our well managed website and social media continued to be a useful source of information. To assist recruitment, we held two awareness days at the Atkinson to promote our Association.

During the AGM members of the committee were elected, including two new members.  Edwina received a long service award for her time as a SoFA committee member. During her time as a committee member she has worn many hats, such as Chair and Vice-Chair. Until Covid, she was a volunteer at National Trust Formby and has been our liaison contact for many years.

Thanks were given to the PCC of Christ Church and Matthew, in particular, for enabling us to meet in their church as well as to all our members for their constant support throughout 2025.

When the AGM was finished, we were provided with an update from local National Trust staff.

Gil Riley, a volunteer at Rufford Old Hall for the last 18 years, supplied us with an update as to what is happening at their gardens. He says that there is a lot of pruning going on and wants to make the gardens evolve in order that there is something new to see each season.

Emma Ritson then supplied us with an overview of the various National Trust Properties in our area. She let us know where the donation that SoFA has given them will be spent. They require a wood chipping machine. There is a lack of signage at Rufford, therefore, they would like to have six long-term garden signs put up. Metal edging is also required around two footpaths. They also have a garden plant project which will cost between £500 – £1000.  Emma thanked SoFA for the donation we supplied to them.

Then we were then given an update about National Trust Formby, this was presented to us by Laura Michelangeli. Firstly, she informed us that the donation that we had given them was spent on ‘Community Activities’. The car park at Victoria Road is now open, 80,000 tonnes of material having been removed during the project. They are in receipt of Sycamore Gap saplings, that have now been planted. She informed us that they are thrilled that they have received these.

Laura also informed us that the donation that we gave to Speke Hall was spent on wildflower seeds, which have been sown.  Once they have germinated and grown, they will be visible next to the visitor reception for all to see. She told us that the kitchen has been restored and is now open for visitors.

She was pleased to announce that The Hardmans’ House is now open every Friday and the last Saturday of each month.

Laura thanked all the SoFA members for their donations to Speke Hall and Formby Woods.

If you are interested in joining SoFA please contact us using our Contact Form.