FARNHAM Hedgehog, Bob Hockey, was proud to host his last annual general meeting as chairman, as he retired after four years in the role.

Bob has been instrumental in successfully steering the Hedgehogs through a transitional period of reorganisation and promotion.

The 58th AGM commenced by welcoming the new members who had joined the Hedgehogs during 2017. The funds raised by the Hedgehogs for the financial year ending March 31, 2017, not only matched their previous best ever fundraising result of £73,800, but increased this by 2.5 per cent to £75,750.

During the course of the financial year, 55 separate donations were made to local charities, and worthy causes including the Farnham Community Hopper Bus.

Additionally, 20 plus donations were made to local individuals in need, a key element of the Hedgehogs’ mantra.

Monies raised were in no small part due to The Hedgehogs being recognised and nominated by various organisations and shops within the town as their local charity, resulting in the Hedgehogs, now being more prominent and acknowledged and respected for what they represent to the town of Farnham and surrounding areas.

The major fundraising activities in 2016/17 included The Farnham Motoring Revival, the I Love Farnham calendar, sponsored charity swim, golf day, marquee and equipment hire, Bat and Ball Beer and Cider Festival and the Hedgehogs’ quiz night.

During 2016 the Hedgehogs also introduced collection boxes for the acceptance of old and foreign currency in local pubs and retail outlets, which has been a great success.

Bob also gave sincere thanks on behalf of the members to their partners and wives, who themselves raised more than £3,500 during the year.

As a show of appreciation of their enduring support, personalised pink blouses embroidered with the Hedgehogs Supporters logo have been provided.

At the conclusion of the meeting Bob retired as chairman and Mike Dunkley was voted in as the Hedgehogs chairman for 2017/18. Bob wished Mike all the best for year ahead and promised his support in every way possible supported by the membership.

Under the chairmanship of Mike Dunkley, the Hedgehogs will continue as a vibrant organisation and a highly respected part of Farnham life as its primary local charity ‘Helping Local People in Need’.

For further information on the Hedgehogs or how to join call 07772 642366, visit www.the-hedgehogs.org.uk, or follow the team on Facebook by searching ‘TheHedghogsFarnham’.