Friends of the TPT Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2024 – Key Highlights and Updates 

The Friends of the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place on the 26th November, providing a valuable opportunity for the community, members, and stakeholders to come together and reflect on the progress of the past year. The event also offered an exciting glimpse into the future, with updates on finances, membership initiatives, and TPT office developments. As always, the AGM was a key occasion for strengthening the sense of connection among all those involved in supporting this important national trail. 

Opening Speaker: John Grimshaw CBE
This year’s AGM was made even more special by the presence of John Grimshaw CBE, founder of Sustrans and a long-time supporter of the Trans Pennine Trail. John opened the meeting with a fascinating presentation about his current work with Greenways and Cycleroutes Ltd, based in the Bristol area. 

As a pioneer in the development of sustainable transport and cycling infrastructure, John’s talk was both inspiring and insightful. He spoke about his ongoing projects, which focus on creating and enhancing greenways and cycling routes in the southwest of England, continuing the important work he began with Sustrans. 

John also shared his hopes and plans for the future, emphasizing the need for increased investment in active travel, the importance of community involvement, and the role that greenways play in improving public health and the environment. His vision for the future of sustainable transport is one that aligns closely with the goals of the Trans Pennine Trail – creating connected, accessible, and safe routes for cyclists, walkers, and nature enthusiasts alike. 

After his presentation, John took the time to answer questions from those present, engaging in a lively and productive discussion. His wealth of experience and passion for improving cycling infrastructure provided a great deal of inspiration and food for thought for all those in attendance. 

Here’s a recap of the key points discussed at the 2024 AGM:

1. Apologies for Absence: As is customary at every AGM, the meeting began with apologies from members unable to attend. This is a vital step in ensuring the meeting runs smoothly and that all members are accounted for.
2. Approval of 2023 AGM Minutes: The minutes from the 2023 AGM, which had been held online on 16 November 2023, were reviewed and approved. A copy of the minutes had been circulated in advance, allowing everyone to reflect on the discussions and decisions made in the previous year’s meeting.
3. Matters Arising from the Minutes: This section provided an opportunity to address any outstanding issues or follow-up points from the 2023 AGM. It’s always reassuring to see a commitment to continuity and transparency in the group’s work.
4. Annual Report and Accounts for the Year Ending 5 April 2024: One of the most important items on the agenda was the presentation of the Annual Report and Accounts. While the full report will be circulated in due course, the key highlights included updates on income, expenditures, and ongoing fundraising efforts to support the trail. It was a testament to the hard work of the Friends group that they’ve managed to sustain and grow their activities despite challenging times.
5. Appointment of Independent Examiner: The AGM confirmed the appointment of BCVS Services Ltd from Barnsley as the Independent Examiner for the 2024-25 financial year. The role of the independent examiner is vital in ensuring that the group’s finances remain transparent, accurate, and compliant with necessary regulations.
6. Re-Appointment of Trustees: The AGM saw the reappointment of several key Trustees for another term. The continued leadership of the following Trustees ensures stability and expertise as the Friends group continues to expand its reach and influence. :                             

Simon Geller
Pam Ashton
Peter Brocklehurst
Jane Hall        

7. Reports from Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer: As expected, there were brief oral reports from the Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. These updates provided insights into the organisation’s progress, key achievements, and challenges faced over the past year. Of particular interest were the Treasurer’s remarks on the financial position of the Friends group and how they plan to strengthen their financial base moving forward.
8. Progress on Membership Initiatives: One of the key areas of focus for the Friends group has been the development of new membership initiatives. Since the 2023 AGM, the organisation has made significant progress in increasing its membership base and enhancing member engagement. The attached update highlighted new strategies and activities aimed at retaining current members and attracting new supporters to the cause, ensuring the future sustainability of the group.
9. TPT Office Updates: Attendees also received updates from the TPT Office on developments regarding the trail’s maintenance, upcoming projects for 2024 where the Friends membership can play a key role. The TPT Office continues to be the heart of trail operations, and the updates provided a glimpse into some exciting future plans for the trail’s growth.
10. Any Other Business (AOB): The final part of the AGM opened the floor to any other business. Members were encouraged to ask questions, suggest ideas, and raise any concerns they had about the direction of the group or the trail itself. This portion of the meeting always offers a great opportunity for dialogue and the sharing of ideas.

Looking Ahead: The 2024 AGM was an exciting and productive meeting, with a wealth of information shared and important updates provided. With continued support from members, partners, and volunteers, the Friends of the TPT are well-positioned to continue their work in enhancing and protecting the Trans Pennine Trail for years to come.

Whether through improved trail infrastructure, increased membership engagement, or new partnerships, the future of the Trans Pennine Trail looks bright. And with inspiring leaders like John Grimshaw CBE continuing to champion the cause, there’s much to look forward to as we work together to create a more sustainable, connected, and accessible trail network. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey toward a vibrant and thriving Trans Pennine Trail! 

Simon Geller
Chair of the Friends of the Trans Pennine Trail
Date: 6th December 2024