298. 02-01-88 SURREY - CLAYGATE/ESHER: SAR & N; WPR, COB, Sec. The party arrived at Claygate Station by train at around 11.30, and walked a short distance to the "FOLEY ARMS" which was, at that time, almost devoid of custom. The Youngs Ordinary was well kept. Members then tramped along a dirt track in the rain to Esher, and had a leisurely lunch in the "BEAR" which was punctuated by the droning monologue of an American Businessman who drew a parallel between the Red Army and the British Health Service in an attempt to sell private health insurance to a colleague. Despite a short sunny break, a downpour took place as the party crossed Esher High Street, and they had to take refuge in a bus shelter. The COB failed to leave on a 715 Green Line Bus due to lack of change, so the party returned via Esher Station. The SAR & N and WPR had tea in the SAR's parents residence.

299. 02-01-88 LONDON SW19 - WIMBLEDON: WPR; SAR & N. The WPR suggested some traditional research to round off the day, so members negotiated puddles to arrive at the "HAND IN HAND" which was reasonably full, even at the early hour of 7 p.m., and the "CROOKED BILLET" which was, as usual, much emptier. The drinking habits of the younger clientele were noted.

300. 08-01-88 LONDON W1 - BLOOMSBURY: WPR; COB, Anth . The "NORTHUMBERLAND ARMS". The WPR made an unsuccessful search for other Members in adjacent pubs. Later Anth turned up and discussion centered around a proposed trip to Croydon to buy a computer. The meeting was traditionally rounded off by the COB and WPR with a trip to GIGS Kebab and Chip Shop.

301. 13-01-88 LONDON SW18 - WANDSWORTH: SAR & N; WPR, COB, GR, Yurika. An advance party set out by the 77A bus, which, as usual, did not go all the way to its destination, thus necessitating a midcourse correction, which was engineered by the SAR. The rest of the party was met in the "BREWERY TAP", adjacent to the Youngs Brewery, and photos were taken by Yurika. She was then elevated to the status of Membership, and qualified as an Ordinary Member by delivering a manifesto in the time- honoured fashion. Members then crossed the road to the "SPREAD EAGLE", where the mysterious staircase again attracted attention. The Ordinary was judged to be even better than at the previous establishment, it being served at a slightly cooler temperature. Then members walked a short distance to the "TWO BREWERS", where an elderly patron felt geopolitically threatened by the party, and, grumbling, moved to a more distant table. The beer was also judged to be worse than at the other pubs. At this point, the SAR & N made a COB-style getaway on a 37 bus, picking up yet another motion of censure on the way, and the COB invoked the ECM clause, leading the rest of the party to the "GRAPES". The WPR consumed a pint, thus out-drinking the GR. The COB agreed to conduct the WPR to a bus stop, but abandoned him to chase a 28 home.

302. 16-01-88 SURREY - RICHMOND : SAR & N; WPR, COB, GR (not the "Shaftesbury"), Yurika, Julia and Bernard, Irene (of Peru) with friends from Italy and Mexico (Old Ship only). This large party slowly assembled over a 1 1/2 hour period in the "OLD SHIP", with the first guests leaving when the last arrived. The meeting commandeered the stern quarters of the pub, having to negotiate its way past early patrons and numerous bits of nautical memorabilia. At 7.30 Bernard and Julia arrived and immediately led the party down a narrow lane to the "WATERMAN'S ARMS", a small and basic venue, with beer considerably cheaper than in the Old Ship. "Letter from America" featured prominently on the jukebox. The meeting took over the back bar, together with one man and his dog (which occupied most of the floor space). It was then felt that the aquatic associations ought to be kept up, and members thus continued downhill past alarming signs indicating approaching riparian hazards, to the "WHITE CROSS" where the meeting had to stand near a very unappetising food counter. The moist, foggy aspect of the river impressed the WPR. At this point the GR disappeared down a side street to attend a local ceremony in Surbiton, while the rest of the party passed the "Orange Tree", which was far too full to do research in, and managed to find sufficient space in the "SHAFTESBURY" in Kew Road, to round off the meeting. This was a smallish, unremarkable venue where one side was much fuller than the other, and there was a large folder containing information about buses, which was studied by the SAR and the COB.

303. 20-01-88 LONDON SW1 - WESTMINSTER/PIMLICO: SAR & N; WPR, COB, GR, Anth (not the "Rising Sun"). The habitual party were already assembled in the "BUCKINGHAM ARMS" in Petty France when the SAR & N rolled in. Food was had in two sittings, by the WPR and GR, followed by the COB. The other members infringed to some extent on their chips. In order to accompany the food, two rounds of Ordinary (and Dry Martini) were had. An adjacent room, which appeared to be accessible only through the toilets, and without a bar, provoked special comment from the party, especially in connection with its longness and thinness. A policy discussion then ensued, and the meeting resolved to head on foot to Pimlico, where nostalgia was entered into regarding previous meetings. The "MORPETH ARMS" was the next venue; it surprised some members by its fullness. A half of Ordinary was had by the WPR, who justified his action by mentioning previous pints had therein. This was rejected by the COB, and his motion that any member of the Society not consuming a pint in each Youngs venue should be made a second-class Youngs Pub Researcher was seconded by the SAR. A discussion then began on the geographical definition of islands, and the party moved to the "RISING SUN" in Ebury Bridge Road. On the way, Anth departed to take a short cut to the station, but was relocated by the party later; however he resisted attempts to rejoin the meeting. A modern and undistinguished venue, the only point of interest observed being a showcase containing a number of silver medals and insignia, which, it was hypothesised, might have been removed from visiting Chelsea Pensioners. The discussion about islands was re-opened, and concluded by the COB, who stated that no man is an island, except the Isle of Man, which is (and with the possible exception of Traffic Islands).

304. 23-01-88 LONDON NW3/NW1 - HAMPSTEAD/CAMDEN TOWN: WPR; SAR & N, GR. Members were called to these northern outposts of the Youngs empire, and they appeared at the "FLASK" in Hampstead by Underground. A notable absentee was the COB, who, by means of the telephone, explained that he was under too much pressure to drink and therefore would not be present. This attitude surprised the Society, in view of his earlier insistence that a pint be drunk in each venue visited. In the "Flask" both arriving parties were informed by the barman that he had previously worked in the "Morpeth Arms", whereupon both of the arriving parties informed him that they had been there the previous Wednesday. This did not seem to inspire any feeling of coincidence in the barman, to the extent that he did not inform the second arriving party of the presence of the first, and, for a short time, two simultaneous sub-meetings occurred. On rectifying this situation, the meeting was officially opened, and comment was made on the wallpaper, which was felt to be a typical characteristic of Youngs pubs. The pub was not as twee as might be expected in Hampstead. Members then continued to the "HORSE AND GROOM" where some documents received from the Chair concerning an alternative Spanish Pope, and indices of development and culture in various countries, were read and discussed. The WPR's sister was also present therein. After this, the party took the Underground to Camden Town, and briefly visited the "SPREAD EAGLE" which, according to the Youngs list is in Regents Park. Here wallpaper was replaced by wood panelling, and a number of traditional prints, together with a photo of two fish heads, which did not tie in with the rest of the decor.

305. 28-01-88 LONDON W1 - SOHO: WPR; COB. "WHITE HORSE" near Carnaby Street. Lunch time meeting.

306. 03-02-88 LONDON N3 - FINCHLEY: COB; WPR. This meeting was held in the "QUEEN'S HEAD" and was described by the WPR as a flop.

307. 13-02-88 LONDON SW15 - PUTNEY: COB; SAR & N, WPR. The party met in the "SPOTTED HORSE", where the WPR arrived last, and was applauded volubly because he had had to come all the way from North London. The meeting moved north- westwards to visit the "HALF MOON" and the "DUKE'S HEAD" in their riparian locations. The former was not too full but filled up as music was about to start, and the latter was fuller, and notable for pale blue lighting which did not complement the rest of the ambiance. Finally, the "CASTLE" was visited; this a modernist Youngs Pub, again with unusual lighting, this time consisting of large white spheres.

308. 17-02-88 LONDON WC2 - SOHO: Chair; SAR & N, WPR, Yurika; Mirtes, Irene. The Chair made one of his increasingly rare appearances at the Society, and chose to convene the meeting in an unimaginative location, viz, the "IMPERIAL", Leicester Street. A notable absentee was the COB, mainly because he did not know about the meeting, but also because of his anti-Imperialist sentiments. The SAR & N developed the same sentiments as they had to wait 1 1/2 hours in this very crowded venue for the rest of the party to appear. The Chair came with a set of the most recent editions of "Packaging Japan" for consideration by the Society. On eventually leaving the pub, a threefold schism developed, with the WPR leading the "pubbers" party with the Chair and Yurika to the "FALCON", leaving the SAR & N to guard the entrance to a Chinese restaurant for later. He justified this unconstitutional behaviour by referring to the Chair's requirement for drink, and, more important, the fact that the pub's name reflected the name of the project he was currently working on. A third group bode for time by seeking out Oriental teas. The SAR & N made gestures of leaving to the "pubbers" who were unmoved, and then they made more emphatic gestures to the same effect, at which point Yurika sprung into conciliatory action and ably managed to reconstitute the three sub-groups, for which she was issued with a special commendation. Yurika then proceeded to take the party to one of two Chinese Restaurants, but did not succeed in finding either. At this point the WPR conducted the party to the "Singapore Mandarin" Restaurant, where a traditionally excellent meal was had, and the WPR was eulogised by Members and non-Members alike.

309. 20-02-88 SURREY - RICHMOND : Yurika; SAR & N, WPR, COB; Irene. The first venue for this meeting was a non-alcoholic one, "Clarence's Greek Cypriot Coffee House" where Yurika and Irene were working. The COB was the only member to make this venue, where he had coffee which he described as "good". Members then assembled in the "ORANGE TREE" where there was sufficient space between the theatrical buffoons. Missing the arrival of Julia and Bernard by minutes, the party moved off on foot in an easterly direction, to the "SHAKESPEARE" in Lower Richmond Road, where there were only two customers, and a parrot which liked to sing along with Chas and Dave. Watercolours were noted on the walls. Then the party headed back, past a large Gothic establishment, to the "MITRE" in a secluded back street location. This was also an empty venue, with the landlord occupying his time by watering his window boxes. There were still copies of the Youngs pub list from several years ago, thus pinpointing this venue as a lesser-known outpost. Finally, members moved to the "RED COW" where Knock Out Whist was played with the house cards. The SAR & N left to get a 37 bus while Yurika had a concluding drink and was reported to have indulged in singing on the way back.

310. 29-02-88 LONDON W1 - MAYFAIR: WPR; SAR & N, COB, GR, Yurika; Mirtes, Irene (last 3 only in "Paulo's"). Members met at the central location of the "GUINEA", this being probably being the only Youngs pub where an uniformed commissionaire assists patrons on how to enter the pub. This did not help the GR however, whose main difficulties centered around finding the pub, and finding his Youngs pub list. He was successful in the former, but not the latter. Almost the only table, at the back of this extremely small venue, was purloined by members. The COB produced some extremely boring technical documentation for consideration at the meeting. Then the party went to Baron's Court, which was a mistake, in order to visit "Paulo's", the Brazilian Restaurant, to which a long walk was necessitated. A very lively and interesting meal was had, featuring "caipirinha de vodka" and Almaden White Wine (imported via Grange-over-Sands) by way of drink. On return, the SAR & N confused the WPR by getting a bus - a mode of transport which he does not yet fully understand.

311. 07-03-88 LONDON NW5 - KENTISH TOWN: WPR; COB. "FUZZOCK AND FIRKIN".

312. 09-03-88 LONDON W6 - HAMMERSMITH: WPR; COB. The meeting began at the "BUILDERS" where members appreciated the beer, and noted a large number of drinkers distributed in a linear manner; then the party caught a westward 266 bus to the "THATCHED HOUSE" which was not thatched. Finally, they visited the "BROOK GREEN TAVERN".

313. 11-03-88 LONDON W1 - BLOOMSBURY: Mick (non-member); WPR, COB, Anth. "NORTHUMBERLAND ARMS"

314. 19-03-88 SAR & N'S PARTY: Chair & K, WPR, SOS, Sec, Yurika; Bernard and Julia, Duncan and Barbara, Jane, Pete, Dorota (of Poland), Diana (of Spain). This was in effect a 31st birthday celebration.

315. 25-03-88 IRELAND : CO. DUBLIN - DUBLIN: WPR; COB. "MADIGAN'S" Long Bar. 1 1/2 Guinness. Basic and darkened. The WPR doubled his lifetime quota of Guinness. Most westerly European meeting to date.

316. 26-03-88 IRELAND : CO. DUBLIN - DUBLIN: WPR; COB. "X & Y FOOD & DRINK EMPORIUM" 2 pints Smethwicks, which was very bad. Lively and crowded. 2 pints Guinness (the WPR doubled his lifetime quota again). Table service for drinks, which the party did not avail itself of. "BRADY'S" 1 Guinness, 1/2 Murphy's. Quiet and dark. Consultation of maps and car rental conditions.

317. 28-03-88 IRELAND : CO. CORK - INCHIGULAGH: WPR; COB. Most westerly European meeting to date. 2 1/2 pints Murphy's. Gaelic speaking clientele in basic surroundings. Bar lunches were partaken by members, turning out to be of course meals.

318. 28-03-88 IRELAND : CO. KERRY - KILLARNEY: WPR; COB. Most westerly European meeting to date. "LAUREL PUB". 1 1/2 pints Murphy's each. The WPR was very impressed with this establishment until a group of Americans loudly dominated the place with reminiscences of Monterey, CA.

319. 29-03-88 IRELAND : CO. KERRY - DUNQUIN: WPR; COB Most westerly European meeting (and claimed to be the most westerly inhabited part of Europe). "KRUGER'S LOUNGE BAR", quiet bungalow style bar.

320. 02-04-88 LONDON SW18 - WANDSWORTH: SAR & N; WPR, COB. The traditional Youngs ensemble met again at the "KING'S ARMS" where the COB was the first patron. Members gave up waiting for Anth once the COB ascertained that he had fallen asleep. This behaviour was attributed to his attitude problems by the COB. On confirming his non-participation, the SAR led members in a NW direction to the "WHEATSHEAF", a small, simple local which the COB approved of, and then the "QUEEN ADELAIDE" which did not possess any memorable distinguishing marks. Finally the party headed east to the "ALMA" where it accidentally sat in a Restaurant, and therefore had dinner, consisting of sausages and garlic bread. The atmosphere was rather French and the venue was approved of.

321. 11-04-88 LONDON N6 - HIGHGATE: WPR; Chair & K, Sec. This meeting was convened in order for the Sec, in his official function as Archivist, to go through historical material in the WPR's possession, which he did. The Chair arrived under the influence of a heavy lunch, but the Sec and WPR soon caught up. The "BLACK ROSE" was visited, after which the Sec left, followed by the "FLASK" (the one in Highgate).

322. 12-04-88 LONDON SW13 - BARNES: WPR; COB. "WHITE HART", "COACH & HORSES", "BULLS HEAD".

323. 23-04-88 SURREY - CROYDON/THORNTON HEATH : WPR; COB. "DOG & BULL", "TAMWORTH ARMS" (recently voted the best Youngs Pub by a 135 meeting recently held in that pub: local bias detected); "GLOUCESTER" - voted Worst Youngs Pub by the COB due to crowdedness and Irish Folk Music. Finally the party moved to Thornton Heath to the "RAILWAY TELEGRAPH", where Union Jack attire was prevalent, it being St. George�s Day.

324. 26-04-88 LONDON WC1 - BLOOMSBURY: WPR; COB. These members went to do a pre-inspection of the "LAMB" - the venue to be used for the next Annual General Meeting. The COB nearly lost his beer because somebody thought it was lager.

325. 29-04-88 MIDDLESEX/LONDON NW10 - GREENFORD/HARLESDEN: WPR; SAR & N, COB. Members sallied forth to the North-West Frontier Province of the Youngs empire, partaking of the Central Line thereto, via Beograd (White City). The advance party (WPR, SAR & N) walked through what was agreed to be appropriately miserable weather conditions, passing a group of painted native peoples who appeared to be speaking in a Francophonic dialect. Arriving at the "BRIDGE", a drink was had, but no food was available, despite the extensive menu, and bets were taken as to the arrival time of the COB. At that point he walked in, after not having bought a new car. After a second round of Ordinary, the party re-took the Central Line eastwards to North Acton and walked through the deserted expanses of Park Royal Trading Estate to the "GRAND JUNCTION TAVERN" in Harlesden, which received the Worst Youngs Pub award by both the WPR and the SAR. The WPR and the COB entered into Speculations on Playing Rectangular Rotations in Relation to Group Theory, which was incomprehensible to the SAR & N. On leaving, a 226 bus came along and was caught, though members were unsure where it was going. Under the COB's aegis, the whole party got off again near Willesden Junction, where he ran off after another bus, leaving the rest of the party helplessly disorientated.

326. 02-05-88 MIDDLESEX/LONDON W4 - ISLEWORTH/CHISWICK: WPR; COB. These members covered Isleworth, which had been previously researched by the SAR & N. They started at the "CASTLE", where they were impressed by the conservatory, then continued to the "COACH AND HORSES" where Dinner was had. After that they moved to Chiswick, to visit the "CROWN AND ANCHOR" where a one-man electronic music scene was noted, by the name of Ray Gates, or Gay Rates. The guitar solos were judged to be the best. The COB eulogised the 267 bus, which provided sterling service to the party in both directions.

327. 08-05-88 LONDON SW14 - MORTLAKE/SHEEN: SAR & N; WPR, COB; Julia. 80 per cent of the meeting was assembled outside the "CHARLIE BUTLER'S" for opening time, under a threatening black sky with the sound of thunder emanating from the direction of the North West Frontier Province (see 29-04-88). Luckily the party escaped inundation. The WPR appeared at 7.16, and shortly afterwards the meeting moved a short distance, under the shadow of the Stag Brewery, to the "JOLLY GARDENERS"; then walked up Sheen Lane to the "HARE AND HOUNDS" where Julia left immediately and the WPR soon afterwards, because of train times. The bussers waited for their transport outside the pub; surprisingly the 37 came before the 33, so that the COB was the last out.

328. 12-05-88 SURREY - MITCHAM: SAR & N; COB. The WPR had conveyed his apologies due to 'Flu. The meeting began in the "KING'S ARMS" where rapid pints were had due to smoky and noisy atmosphere. Members then continued to the "CRICKETERS" which was an emptier but much more pleasant environment, with a view over the cricket field and pictures of cricketers inside. The COB was particularly impressed by the friendliness of the bar staff, but at the same time was irritated by the door at the entrance to the bar which closed with a resounding thud every time someone went in or out. Finally the "BULL" was visited, and the party was led into the public bar by Nadir, who surprised the bar staff by hiding behind the door while the SAR and COB studied bus timetables outside. The public bar was empty except for a resident cat and dog. Crisps and peanuts were had, and an exit made to coincide with the arrival of the 200 bus. However this time it was the COB who was in luck as a 219 immediately (and unexpectedly) appeared, and he leapt on it. The 200 eventually appeared 20 minutes later.

329. 14-05-88 LONDON WC1 - ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The meeting took place in the "LAMB" in Lamb's Conduit Street.
The Society; (in order of appearance) Chair, Sec, SAR & N, Friendly Dork (Simon of Dorking), GR, WPR, COB, Elephant & Castle, Anth, Rick. Smallish but select gathering in sunny Bloomsbury, with fears of confrontation with wayward Cup-Final losing Liverpool supporters not being realised, and celebration of South London Club's victory undertaken by Members. The Chair combined his two now famous functions as "raconteur" and "bon vivant" by regaling each new arrival with tales of a magnificent curry house in East Kilbride. Relaxed consumption of Youngs Ordinary and Special and sundry shorts/fruit juices. Departure of SAR & N at 9.50 precipitated a general early migration (evidence of incipient middle age?), with Chair, Rick et al heading up Theobald's Road in search of Indian Cuisine, the GR and Sec taking a brisk stroll to Waterloo and the COB and Anth being left to finish everyone's beers.

330. 21-05-88 ESSEX/LONDON E14/E3 - BARKING/STEPNEY/BOW : SOS; SAR & N, WPR, COB. The SOS invited the Youngs touring members to East London for research into that segment. The SAR & N met the SOS at Barking Station, which was compared to Roma Termini. Members walked by the railway line to the "BRITANNIA", also known locally as the "Fourteen Tits" owing to a line of sculptures holding up its frontage. Discussion focused on the correlation between the shapes of London boroughs and the number of railway stations in them. Members then got involved in a lengthy discussion at the bus stop about where to go next and how, largely caused by the need to obviate the requirement to pay an extra 40p on the tube. This was done by catching a No. 5 bus to Stepney (now called Limehouse) and the "QUEEN'S HEAD", a surprisingly empty venue with trite Cockney verse on the walls. The party then moved on foot to the "COBORN ARMS" in Bow, a recently renovated and also fairly empty venue, which was highly approved of by all Members.

331. 29-05-88 LONDON W1 - WESTMINSTER: Rick; WPR, COB; relatives of COB. The meeting was convened in "PORTLANDS" by Rick in order that members could have the opportunity of seeing his new band, the "Heads of State". This, however, was unknown to the COB, who had brought a large number of relatives from Aylesbury, who were unwilling to pay two pounds per head to see this unknown rock musician. Therefore they formed a group in the upstairs bar, and the WPR had to ply between the musical and non-musical venues, for the sake of good order, and also to uphold the dictates of the Constitution.

332. 04-06-88 BERKSHIRE - READING/SONNING: Chair & K; WPR, COB (lunch time only, except first venue). The Chair invited members to his neck of the woods and started the meeting in with the WPR in the "BLAGRAVE ARMS". Then the COB arrived, having splashed out on first class rail travel, which was most unusual for him. The next venue was the "FISHERMANS ARMS" (Fullers), where patrons in the garden were inconvenienced by partial views of convenience users. The Chair then instigated a search for Kath which was hampered by the fact that he knew neither where nor when he was supposed to meet her; however during this process, research ensued at the "HORNS", after which she was eventually located at a Tapas Bar, whose non-English nature horrified the COB, who made a hasty departure, behaving in an unusual way, quizzing the barmaid about which dish on the menu had the odd number out; she rallied bravely but was only partially correct. This behaviour was associated with excesses the previous evening. The remaining members retired to the Chair & K's residence, where walls of unusual colours and refrigerators in unusual places continued to be in evidence. In the evening the party was chauffeured by the Chair to the "FLOWING SPRING" near Sonning.

333. 18-06-88 LONDON SE1/WC1 - SOUTHWARK/HOLBORN: WPR; SAR & N, COB. A pre-WPR birthday celebration opened in the "FOUNDER'S ARMS" at 6.30 p.m., where members reminisced about previous meetings and sat outside for a short period, being slightly perturbed by a number of pigeons and a fresh east wind. Thus the meeting moved to the "PRINCE WILLIAM HENRY" which was almost empty, and then caught a combination of buses 45 and 17 to Gray's Inn Road, to the "CALTHORPE ARMS" where members sat outside. The long evening was noted and enjoyed, it now being clear, and the only inconvenience was an Irish drunk who was repeatedly asked to remove himself by the Management. The COB declined the second round due to excesses the previous evening.

334. 23-06-88 LONDON SW15 - PUTNEY/ROEHAMPTON: SAR & N; WPR. This meeting began at the "GREEN MAN" in Putney, where members sat outside in one of the front courtyards. A notable absentee was the COB; the WPR attributed this to the fact that he had only been informed about this meeting at the end of the previous one, at which time, due to consumption of beer to the tune of three pints, temporary memory failure might have occurred. Members then walked along the side of Putney Heath in the evening sunshine, to the "ANGEL" in Roehampton High Street (which shared the distinction of not being like a High Street with those of Wapping and Battersea). Luckily the party arrived at 7.30 p.m. which was the allotted time for B-B-Q (barbecue), and burgers with salad and potatoes were prepared and had outside at the side of the pub. There was a non-public atmosphere as all the other barbecue patrons seemed to be intercognizant families. Fortified thus by food, the meeting enthusiastically moved northwards up Roehampton Lane to the "MALTESE CAT", where again it was possible to sit outside, though by this time light was fading and the temperature was dropping. The WPR made a swift exit on a 74 bus.

335. 26-06-88 LONDON SE5/SW2/SW9 - CAMBERWELL/BRIXTON: SAR & N; WPR. The WPR was entertained to food in Streatham before the meeting. The WPR contacted the COB who showed a reluctance to attend (and didn't), probably due to excesses on the previous evening. The party caught a bus to Brixton, and walked down Coldharbour Lane to the "WICKWOOD TAVERN" in Flaxman Road, near Loughborough Junction; a small and unpretentious local. Then a 35 bus was taken to Acre lane, and the "HOPE AND ANCHOR", where members sat in the garden outside, which, though surrounded by industrial and commercial land uses, was pleasant, and was notable for a gazebo at the back, together with geraniums and petunias in various contrapuntal shades of pink. Finally the "TRINITY ARMS" was visited, in what estate agents describe as "Brixton Village".

336. 09-07-88 LONDON SW17 - TOOTING: WPR; COB. The party met at the "GORRINGE PARK" to investigate the Youngs pubs of Tooting, and then they went to the "CASTLE", "PRINCE OF WALES" and the "LEATHER BOTTLE". Members' overall verdict was more favourable than on the SAR-led expedition.

337. 16-07-88 LONDON SW18 - AARDVARK-BONG'S PARTY: Aardvark-Bong; Chair, WPR, Rick, others. This now traditional annual event was interrupted in the middle by the WPR who invoked the ECM with the Chair, saying "I've got to do this", and went to the "PIG AND WHISTLE" in order to tick off that venue on the Youngs list.

338. 30-07-88 OXFORDSHIRE/LONDON W2 - OXFORD/PADDINGTON: Sec; Chair & K, WPR, Rick. The first venue was the "OXFORD BAKERY AND BREWHOUSE" where 2 1/2 pints Best and 1 1/2 pints Tapper were had, followed by 2 1/2 pints Best, 1/2 pint Porter. There was a misunderstanding at the Bar by staff overhearing the Chairman wrongly; they thought he was asking for directions to somewhere like Carterpatch, when he had in fact referred to Car Park, thus embarrassing all present. Hotel California, Sour Beer, Joke Books. Wooden tables, empty; previously packed out, according to Chair & Kath. Then rendezvous with Sec. and inspection of his office. Photographs. Members then moved to the "KING'S ARMS" with its characteristic bustle and post-degree ceremony clientele. Brakspears/Flowers etc. was had, and patronage of the quiz machine occurred. Then large meals and dubious Chianti were had at "Sweeney Todd's", where the waitresses induced lustful feelings amongst some members. Rick was invited to stand up and be counted by the Chair, and the verdict on the restaurant was very good. An interlude followed, with a circuit of the city centre, bus to Iffley; inspection of village, church, lock, swans, and the unfortunately closed Isis Tavern. A 3 mile walk up the Thames riverbank ensued, and a rest, followed by 4 pints Morlands and 1/2 lager at the "WATERMAN'S ARMS", in Oseney. A crossword was done. Bottles of Pils were then had in the "STATION BAR", and on the platform, due to the red sky at night. At 10.20, more bottles of Pils were consumed by the WPR and Rick in the "DICKENS" at Paddington.

339. 01-08-88 LONDON N22/N10 - WOOD GREEN/MUSWELL HILL: SOS; WPR. The main object of this meeting was archaeological rather than Bacchanalian, namely to walk along a disused railway, starting at the disused Crouch End Station, and then back through a wet, almost closed tunnel to investigate the overground part of Highgate Station. Drinks were had in "ALEXANDRA PALACE", and after that in a pub in Muswell Hill, whose name was forgotten by Members present, and whose interior resembled the exterior of a train. This was judged to be historically relevant for this particular meeting.

340. 06-08-88 LONDON N7 - HOLLOWAY: Rick; WPR, Nick without Hat, Judy; Russ, Huw. On the previous Thursday, the WPR unexpectedly bumped into Nick without Hat in Great Marlborough Street, and arranged a drink (though the venue was chosen by Rick). Several pints of lager were had in the "FLOUNDER AND FIRKIN" by everyone in sight. The WPR found himself at one point receiving stereo harmonies of popular tunes of the '60s, seated as he was between Rick and Nick without Hat.

341. 10-08-88 LONDON SW18 - WANDSWORTH: WPR; SAR, COB, Rick. A pre-gathering of members took place at a Whitehall bus stop, while the COB chose to travel independently on a 28 bus. All members met at once near Wandsworth Bridge, and proceeded to the "SHIP" where 2 pints Ordinary had by Rick & COB, 1 by the SAR and 1 1/2 plus a plate of cold pasta shells in oregano by the WPR. Again, flocks of starlings flew overhead; Rick surmised that they were going from a tree in West Hill to Leicester Square. Members were then ably led by Rick (who had re-established himself as a Wandsworth resident) to the "CRANE" where the SAR quizzed Rick about an historical event which he subsequently defined as the first pseudo-SLBS meeting (see page 1). By the time he got it, the party was half way to the "GARDENER'S ARMS", having left the COB at a chip shop and proceeded on a 156 bus. The COB followed behind on a 39 bus, but after this pub, went home due to Headache. A final round, consisting largely of Pils, was had in the "BREWERY TAP". The WPR at this point thought he was in the Orange Tree in Richmond, and was taken to an appropriate bus stop by the SAR and returned by way of Vauxhall.

342. 21-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: COB; WPR; Richard (future Single Pippin), Simon (future GWR). A 7 1/2 hour journey on an unbuffeted train occurred, and the WPR failed to make rendezvous with colleagues. However, the "AILSA CRAIG" was achieved and 2 pints were ordered in the hotel bar, which was packed out at 4.30 p.m. and slowly emptied. No favours received from stolid barman who appeared to operate an anti-guest policy. The whole party were united in the "IRON DUKE" (McEwans), where Richard and Simon explained how they had recently survived being driven into by a wayward German.

343. 22-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: COB; WPR; Richard (future Single Pippin), Simon (future GWR). The first day of afternoon drinking in England was celebrated by this faction of the Society by being told to 'clear' from the "NORTH BRITISH HOTEL" at 2.30 p.m. 8 pints of Heavy were had while watching some jazz - Harlem Jazz and Blues Band with Benny Waters. After lunch and ice creams in Parliament Square, it was determined that WC facilities were needed, and so the "BLACK SWAN" was visited. 3 1/2 pints Heavy to drink. Urinals were located miles away by another entrance, which could therefore have been visited without buying beer. Mention is made in passing that a musical performance by John Otway was followed by the party's visit to a Mexican Restaurant where 1 3/4 litres various red wines were taken. The final drinks of the day were had in the hotel, where 7 Famous Grouse were enjoyed in a tired sort of way.

344. 23-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: COB; WPR, Single Pippin (Richard); Simon (future GWR). After a very boring shopping expedition, members gravitated to the "ROSE STREET BREWERY". A mixture of 80/- and Auld Reekie was consumed, the former erroneously, due to a lack of wits about the persona. Protracted disagreement over how to use the word 'heed'. Then members popped in to the "BEEHIVE" for a pre-prandial drink; 3 pints of 70/- and 1 whisky. Points were awarded for shows and various events (including Said Practice (5/40) and Hardys at Home (33/40) and The New Preventers (35/40)). The question of SLBS membership was raised in connection with Richard White, who delivered an appropriate manifesto in anticipation of his acceptance. It was agreed that his name should be put forward to other Committee Members for ratification, and subject to the conditions (a) that he thinks of a name for himself (e.g. Single Pippin); (b) he attends a London meeting of the Society; (c) he carries out the promises expressed in his manifesto. In the afternoon, while queuing for tickets outside the fringe office, the party encountered a drunken Scotsman. His nationality was instantly apparent from his unique turn of phrase. The situation was soon brought under control by a burly representative of the local constabulary and the prospective member from Freshford was invited to help with the enquiry.

345. 24-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: WPR; COB, Single Pippin; Simon (future GWR), Iona (not at first venue). 3 pints of McEwans Export were had in the "COTTARS". The COB's absence was keenly felt by all present. The party, under the impression that it was going to the bar, was diverted instead to the lavatories. Outbreak of postcard writing. The COB returned with Iona and more Export and whiskies were consumed. There was a long queue for food. The party then split up and reconvened sporadically at the "WORLD'S END" (Belhaven), where the 4.00 p.m. rendezvous was not adhered to by the WPR. A large number of schisms and trips out to the station, etc. occurred until the group were reunited at around 6.00 p.m. A wingeing student who declared "I'm sorry, I'm upset" to his father, was roundly condemned by members and non-members alike, thus demonstrating prospective SP stance on the generation gap question. Burgers were had for dinner; there was a misunderstanding over Simon's Special Burger, which actually turned out to be bottom of the range. Then another schism occurred, to see Hot Lemon (COB & WPR), and some jazz by the other two. Later the party reunited for more jazz at the Meadowbank Stadium, after which the COB shot off on a bus, and met the party again at the "AILSA CRAIG" bar for whiskies (8 x Famous Grouse).

346. 25-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: COB; WPR, Single Pippin; Simon (future GWR). A long bus ride was followed by a longer route march to test out the COB's new waterproof shoes. The first venue was the "DOOCOT ROADHOUSE" where 8 1/2 pints (1 baker's gallon) of McEwans Special were had. The theory was formed that "special" was the Scottish word meaning "indifferent" or "subnormal". Excellent R & B entertainment was provided by the Johnny Mars Blues Band, although the WPR was heard to claim that the experience merited only zero points. The route march is not thought to have biased his decision in any way. Then the party went to the "WORLD'S END" for 6 pints of 80/- and 1 pint of 70/-. The prospective members from Avon and Wiltshire departed several times in search of gifts and comestibles for their impending return journey. The COB expressed some concern about the low volume of alcohol consumed thus far during the trip. Narrowly failing to achieve their objective of leaving Edinburgh to the accompaniment of fireworks, marching bands, etc., the South Western contingent returned home on a night train, leaving the COB and WPR to watch the display from the top of Calton Hill. This was preceded by another abortive attempt to enter the Waterloo, this time being rejected on the grounds that it was too full, and substituting it as usual with the "IRON DUKE" (2 pints). The WPR was at one point considered to be the oldest customer, although the pub was packed, but this was later remedied by the entrance of some even older drinkers, to the WPR's relief.

347. 26-08-88 PERTHSHIRE/SUTHERLAND - PITLOCHRY/LOCHINVER: COB; WPR. This meeting was dedicated to the twin objectives of visiting a restaurant near Ullapool that the COB's boss had been to, and giving the WPR some driving practice; rapid progress was made northwards in a rented Cavalier as far as the "CLAYMORE HOTEL" in Pitlochry (2 x halves) for lunch. The barman patiently entertained a boring couple who had left three yapping dogs locked in a car outside. After passing through Inverness and then heading north-west, the party eventually reached the Summer Isles Hotel which lay in an isolated spot somewhere in Ross and Cromarty. On enquiring about the possibility of dinner, members were told that it was too late, they hadn't booked, and yes there was somewhere else to eat but it wasn't nearly as good. On inspecting the fixed menu of Brie and Courgette Soup followed by Lobster for 20 pounds, wine extra, members felt relieved not to have booked and, parting with the host on terms of politely concealed mutual contempt, pressed on to the night's final port of call at the "CULAG HOTEL" in Lochinver. While inspecting alternative accommodation the party were nearly run over by three half-witted green wellied loudmouths, and so decided immediately to stay wherever they weren't, i.e. the Culag. After a slight panic over the continued availability of dinner, members settled down to an excellent meal and discussed how glad they were not to be in the Summer Isles Hotel, and how light it still was. Geographical note: according to the Ordnance Survey Map on the hotel wall, the location was 58 degrees North plus a bit, setting a new SLBS record. An adjournment was made to the Wayfarers bar, where beer and a number of whiskies, including a free glass of a local variety whose name the WPR kept forgetting, were sampled.

348. 27-08-88 SUTHERLAND/KINROSS - LOCHINVER/KINROSS: WPR; COB. After inspecting the coast of Sutherland in the morning, members set off for Edinburgh once more, reaching the "INVERSHIN HOTEL", Invershin for lunch. 2 halves were taken together with an enormous meal, presided over by a raddled but genial old gent whose military connections, suspected by the COB, were confirmed when the nameplate above the door was examined. During the meal, other diners who had been arguing over whether they were in Sutherland or merely looking at it, were observed to leave, climb up a slope and walk along the railway track, prompting Members to do the same. Photographs were taken, and a local bacchanalian expert gave a practical demonstration of how slippery the footpath was. Rather than go straight back to Edinburgh, the party stopped off at the famous by-election town of Kinross, with 2 halves and dinner being had in the "BRIDGEND HOTEL". Various Scottish activities, such as a wedding and a "Scottish Fayre" week resulted in members once more being given a free drink, this time Drambuie. The party finally reached Edinburgh in the late evening to find the hotel bar packed, but were too exhausted to do any more research.

349. 28-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: COB; WPR. The following day being a Sunday, a latish breakfast was followed by a stodgy lunch at "CHEERS" (One half Special and one Orange Squash), a basement cafe/pub of no great distinction. In the afternoon the WPR drove the COB round the Borders, prompting him to declare that he had "OD'd on scenery". The evening's cabaret was preceded by an uneventful visit (1 pint Special and 2 Orange Juices) to the "ARCHES".

350. 29-08-88 LOTHIAN - EDINBURGH: COB; WPR. The final day in Edinburgh was approached with less than bacchanalian fervour, starting with 2 halves 70/- in the "CARLTON STUDIOS" (otherwise known as TIC TOC 3 and 4) Bar. After waiting for the door to be unlocked, then failing to find the light switch, the party's dignity was further imposed upon when the COB was roundly condemned by an irate customer for the unpleasant state of the toilet facilities. An ancient mystery was solved when the COB discovered the meaning of TIC TOC (Theatre In Coventry Theatre Of Coventry). With their train due to leave at 2.30 p.m., members had time for a final visit to the "WORLD'S END" (1 1/2 pints 80/-, haggis, toasties), before making their way back to Waverley Station, England and home.

351. 31-08-88 LONDON SW1/SE22/SE26 - WESTMINSTER/EAST DULWICH/DULWICH: WPR; SAR & N. The meeting assembled outside at the "CLARENCE" in Whitehall, where 1/2 pint of Brakspears was had by way of refreshment, by the WPR and SAR. It was then the intention to take a no. 12 bus, but instead a 184 was taken, and the game of spotting words in the street beginning with A, B etc. was a feature of the journey. The party descended at Peckham Rye, which is in fact two streets, though the "CLOCK HOUSE", despite having an address in it, was not in either. However it did have a collection of clocks in glass cases. A patron at the bar claimed to have done the Youngs tour three times. Then, members again intended to catch a no. 12 bus but instead got a 63 to Sydenham Hill, where the "DULWICH WOOD HOUSE" was visited. After that another 63 was marginally caught to Crystal Palace and a 137 to Streatham. Dinner was had at the "Mughal Empire" Indian Restaurant, and highly appreciated.

352. 03-09-88 SURREY - WALTON-ON-THE-HILL/EPSOM: WPR; SAR & N. The WPR proposed a meeting to take advantage of the all day drinking regulations, which this meeting did not, starting as it did at 7.20 p.m. The delay was due to the number of forms of transport which were required to get to the venue (WPR 6, SAR & N 3), as well as the fact that the WPR was invited to participate in the consumption of the remains of a feijoada in Streatham. After this, buses 118, 80 and 420 were taken to the "CHEQUERS" at Walton-on-the-Hill, which was a spacious venue with a large garden consisting (among other things) of a rabbit-run and some housing for persons involved in food preparation (who outnumbered persons involved in food consumption). The WPR insisted on sitting outside after such a long and complex journey, though the party moved inside for the second drink. At 8.04 p.m. a 406 bus was taken to Epsom, and sunset over Epsom Downs was appreciated. A walk took place via the railway station to the "KING'S HEAD" in East Street where the WPR was determined to make an evening of it, and used arguments relating journey time to drinking time to restore morale. However, it was felt that, in general, Epsom had not lost its ability to dampen down the Society's enthusiasm. Furthermore, local bus transport appeared to cease at 9 p.m., necessitating a train to Wimbledon and the last bus to Streatham.

353. 04-09-88 SURREY - MITCHAM: WPR; SAR. The SAR took the WPR. at the WPR's request, to Mitcham, which he missed last time due to 'flu. After a long wait for a 118 bus, members went to the "KING'S ARMS" which was full, and noted a bizarre (and rather disturbing) optical illusion in which the pub was reflected in the window of Macdonald's across the road, together with patrons who were standing outside the pub, who then appeared to come inside without crossing the road, as if by teleportation. Then the party continued to the "CRICKETERS" where the WPR's Youngs list was admired by patrons, and a game of cricket was noted on the green outside. Finally (and by now, new licensing hours were being benefited from), the "BULL" was visited; this time it was possible to sit outside, though none of the locals did so, despite a moment of hot sunshine. The pub's dog ran through the yard at closing time as a warning, and the pub's cat was also noted. Then a walk ensued to a 60 bus stop via Mitcham Common, and the WPR had a cup of tea before returning to North London.

354. 10-09-88 SURREY - REDHILL/GOMSHALL/SHERE: WPR; COB. Arrived Redhill expecting arduous 500 yard walk. In fact it was only 100 yards to the "HOME COTTAGE". Consumed 2 pints Ordinary washed down with cheese cubes and biscuits. Beer was downed rapidly as train departure time approached. In Gomshall, the station appeared to be in the middle of nowhere. Members followed their noses and arrived at the crowded bar of the "BLACK HORSE". Snobby pub full of snobby people, run by unhelpful barman and unpleasant Scottish tart. Service was surly at best. 2 pints of Ordinary were consumed, and it was grudgingly admitted that cheeseburgers were acceptable (although chips were one pound extra). Trudged to Shere, where the bar of the "PRINCE OF WALES" was surprisingly empty. 2 pints of Ordinary and numerous packets of small comestibles were had.

355. 25-09-88 LONDON SW10/SW6 - CHELSEA/FULHAM: WPR; SAR & N, COB. The SAR & N and the COB arrived at the "CHELSEA RAM" before 12.30 p.m., but the WPR dallied due to lack of bus knowledge, and eventually had to resort to a taxi from Sloane Square. He arrived in time for the second round and a free handout of Roast Potatoes, but missed a raffle which the other members lost. "Tapas" in the form of meatballs were avoided by members until they had all gone. At 1.30 p.m. the party set off south-westwards along King's Road towards the "DUKE OF CUMBERLAND", where a number of ambiance�s resembling mirror- images of each other, but with different people in them, were noted. After that, garlic bread and Pizzas were had in the "Pizza Mia" nearby, in a relaxed manner, while Sunday supplements were read and early 1980s pop videos watched. Finally, members were regaled with coffee at the COB's residence (though not without almost losing the COB on the way there).

356. 28-09-88 LONDON W1 - SOHO: WPR; Rick. "THE HOLYROOD". Lunch time meeting to plan arrangements for the Jean-Michel Jarre concert.

357. 29-09-88 LONDON NW8 - ST. JOHN'S WOOD: WPR; Chair, Rick. "CROCKERS". Nobody can remember anything about this.

358. 06-10-88 LONDON W1/NW5 - FITZROVIA/KENTISH TOWN: Rick; WPR; Mark (non-member). The purpose of the evening was to see the excellent Robyn Hitchcock in "THE TOWN & COUNTRY CLUB". The party met accordingly in the "ONE TUN", thence by Mark's car to the Town and Country Club, where the concert was enjoyed by all - refer to Rick for musical review. Post concert drink in the "TALLY HO" nearby, originally thought to be shut.

359. 08-10-88 LONDON N1 - HIGHBURY/ISLINGTON: WPR; Rick, Judy; Tony (future BS). The main musical event of the month (or year?) was ushered in with a drink in "THE COCK", where the WPR met Rick and Judy, followed by Tony, who had already had a good lunch. Then by train to Custom House for the Jean-Michel Jarre concert "Destination Docklands". Found good location among 100,000 other people, good view of stage, less good view of "screens" - enormous warehouses. Lasers, fireworks, hard journey back where members surprisingly met up again at Highbury & Islington Station. Rick gave the WPR a lift to Highgate where entertainment in a similar vein consisted of JMJ tapes and Koyaanisqatsi on video.

360. 09-10-88 LONDON W1 - SOHO: Maria (absent); Chair & K, WPR, SOS, Rick. The meeting was convened by Maria and members assembled in the "IMPERIAL" ready to greet her arrival which, it later transpired, had been delayed by some weeks due to no visa. Awful and unbelievably expensive "food" was had in the pub, as the party was constrained geographically by the prearranged but ultimately unfulfilled rendezvous.

361. 15-10-88 LONDON E7/E6 - NEWHAM/EAST HAM: SOS; WPR. "YE OLDE SPOTTED DOG" (oldest house in Newham), "LIVE & LET LIVE", "GREEN MAN" (very quiet, with elderly men discussing local history). Meal at Ronak Restaurant (unusual Indian vegetarian food).

362. 21-10-88 LONDON W1 - FITZROVIA: COB; WPR. Convened in the "NORTHUMBERLAND ARMS" to meet Mike (Savereux) but he wasn't there. The pub had been redecorated but still looked exactly the same.

363. 22-10-88 LONDON SE1 - SOUTH BANK: Sec; WPR. The WPR arrived late and met the Sec outside the "NATIONAL FILM THEATRE BAR". Progressed eastwards along south bank, buying a book on pubs in South East London en route, to the "FOUNDERS ARMS", the "ANCHOR", and the "OLD THAMESIDE INN" (plush upstairs bar, overlooking river, in converted warehouse, now blocks of flats). Secretary's Comment: "Nothing happened".

364. 28-10-88 LONDON SW1 - VICTORIA: Sec; WPR, COB. "RISING SUN", Youngs, "ORANGE BREWERY", brewed on premises (SW1, SW2, SW3), "PLUMBERS ARMS", Lord Lucan associations, "GROUSE AND CLARET", genteel bar in Belgravia mews, plush leather benches, Ruddles.

365. 31-10-88 LONDON E5/E8/E9 - CLAPTON/HACKNEY/HOMERTON: COB; WPR. "PRINCE OF WALES". "NORFOLK ARMS". Irish landlord suspected members of being Youngs brewery spies and accordingly kept asking whether the beer was all right and emphasising the relatively low price. "TIGER". Turned out to be ex-Youngs as a result of a pub exchange with Charringtons which had just lapsed. Nevertheless, lists were signed. The COB, as usual, exercised bus catching skills, accomplishing a particularly satisfying final ride on a number 30. The WPR was persuaded along as there were no tubes nearby.

366. 05-11-88 LONDON SW4/SW11 - CLAPHAM/BATTERSEA: WPR; COB. The "WINDMILL" was so crowded that the COB wouldn't go in and get his Youngs list signed. Fireworks on Clapham Common were watched to inevitable JMJ accompaniment, followed by a dark stumble across the common to the "PLOUGH".

367. 03-12-88 SURREY - KINGSTON/SURBITON: SAR & N; WPR, COB; Iona, Duncan. An advance party assembled at Duncan's new residence (his wife being up a water tower in Tanzania), and then proceeded to the "ALBERT ARMS" where the WPR soon arrived, and the COB & Iona in time for the second round, having had difficulties with trains and buses. A large amount of Victoriana along with heavy furniture which took up lots of space, was noted. In heavy rain, but luckily in the comfort of Duncan's car, the party struck off in a southerly direction with the SAR navigating from the boot, as a result of which the meeting strayed out of its research area, continuing until a Young's pub was recognised ahead. This was not the intended one, but in view of the weather conditions it was decided that the meeting ought to stay there, that is to say, at the "WAGGON AND HORSES" in Surbiton. The GR's absence was regretted (he being on a nostalgic trip to Keele) but notwithstanding, members got into two more rounds in comfortable, unsmoky and spacious surroundings.

368. 10-12-88 LONDON SW19 - MERTON: WPR; SAR & N, COB. An area where an ancient meeting of the Society took place around 11 years ago was revisited, starting at the "KING'S HEAD" by Merton Bus Garage, followed by a walk round the permanently-under-construction Industrial Estate to the "PRINCE OF WALES" where two rounds of Youngs Ordinary were had, together with a Vodka and Orange.

369. 17-12-88 LONDON SW1 - VICTORIA: WPR; COB. "GROUSE & CLARET". Quiet out of the way location invaded by horrible noisy moronic upper class wedding party.

370. 20-12-88 LONDON EC1 - CLERKENWELL: WPR; Chair, SAR & N, COB, Anth, SOS, Rick, Judy. The WPR felt that a traditional Christmas meeting ought to be held in a reasonably central location. Members therefore met at the "SEKFORDE ARMS"; Anth was first, then the SAR & N. Shortly thereafter the COB arrived, and then, after a considerable interval, the Chair appeared. As soon as the SAR got up to buy a round, Rick and the WPR finally decided to roll in, having evoked a precedent by calling a pre-meeting ECM in the "WHEATSHEAF" in Bloomsbury. This behaviour was criticised by the other Committee Members. After the meeting, the Chair led a party to an Indian restaurant, having been unable to get into a Thai one.

371. 20-12-88 LONDON SE1 - WATERLOO: Sec; GR. This meeting occurred by accident by the convergence at Waterloo of two members who had failed to locate the venue described above. Some pints were had in the "HOLE IN THE WALL".

372. 22-12-88 LONDON SW1 - WESTMINSTER: WPR; SAR, COB. It was felt that another of the Society's Christmas traditions, a meeting in "OLD SHADES" Whitehall, as established by Anth, should be observed. Unfortunately the WPR convened it on the wrong day, therefore the main progenitor was not present. The WPR and SAR arrived at around 5 o'clock, and when the COB turned up the SAR left, in order to preserve the traditionally small size of such a meeting. It was reported later that an attempt at a meeting did in fact take place on the correct day (23rd) with only the COB present. The progenitor's excuse this time was that he had already been in the pub at 1 o'clock and could not be expected to remain there for six hours.

373. 24-12-88 LONDON SW19 - WIMBLEDON: WPR; SAR & N, Rick; Duncan and Barbara. This traditional event again took place in Wimbledon; after numerous telephone calls, members met in the "DOG AND FOX", finding a relatively uncrowded area at the side of the bar. Crackers were distributed to patrons. In the absence of the Chair, a Christmas discourse was entered into by Rick, who, in an analysis of recent and likely future demographic trends, concluded that this meeting marked "the end of an era". This was due to two factors; urban-rural migration by members' parents, and gradual reduction in members' acquaintances in Wimbledon pubs. With these factors in mind, members wished one another a happy Christmas.

374. 28-12-88 LONDON SW19 - WIMBLEDON: WPR; COB; Alan Dix (non-member). The WPR convened a traditional post-Xmas Wimbledon meeting for the benefit of the COB, who had not yet visited all the Youngs hostelries there. The party went to the "ALEXANDRA", "CROOKED BILLET" and the "HAND IN HAND".

375. 29-12-88 SURREY - SUTTON: WPR; SAR & N, COB. The WPR decided it was time to tick off Sutton from the Youngs list, so that members would not have to go there again. Members used a variety of buses to arrive at the "NEW TOWN", where toasted sandwiches were had while waiting for the COB. The split levels of the bars were again noted; this reminded members of earlier meetings convened by the Chair, whose past and present romances were discussed, with special reference to the part played in them by Sutton. (The Chair had been contacted re: a meeting in his old stamping grounds, but he responded with scathing indifference). At around 9 o'clock members finally left the New Town and the tempo of the meeting speeded up. A drink was had in the "LORD NELSON" which was festooned with Christmas decorations including a tree in an alcove by the window, which was admired. Sets and subsets of Youngs pubs visited by sets and subsets of members were visually represented on a brown paper bag by use of Venn Diagrams. That done, the party headed cross-town to the "ROBIN HOOD" where the WPR was disturbed by the disproportionately large size of the ceiling lights and the Christmas decorations attached thereto.

376. 30-12-88 BERKSHIRE - READING: Chair; First Lady (first venue only), WPR. The WPR, who was in recess, was summoned to Reading by the Chair (and so were other members, who were not in recess). They went to some pubs and had a fine time, as follows: The "HIGHWAYMAN", Exlade Street, Oxfordshire - An 8 mile drive into Oxfordshire to a pub recommended by the IQ (lapsed). Very old and cosy pub - party was prepared to spend all afternoon there, but it closed at 14.30. 6X, Gluhwein, food, coffee. NB 16p refund for off beer not claimed - note to Chair & K for next visit. Recommended in Good Pub Guide for giant sausages. Dog trodden on. "PIPER'S ISLAND" - in the middle of the river. Trivia machine - money won, but more lost. Chair drinking cider. The First Lady stayed at home to do the crosswords and hear the top 10 of Capital all time top 500. No orders taken for item 33 (Wombat's Abortion = Pernod, Vodka, Blackcurrant, Lemonade, Ice Cream). "THREE MEN IN A BOAT" Not recommended by Chair as it is full of Sharons but members went in for quick halves of Owd Rodger and Weatherheedstunt's. Confusion on ordering beer; bar girl couldn't serve as was talking to 4 others, but was allowed to fetch someone else who did, the price increasing with South American ferocity from �2.55 to �3.10 before settling at a more feasible �1.31, a bargain which was snapped up quickly. Very new establishment - part of Caversham Hotel by river. (Old Caversham hotel was destroyed by fire about three years ago). WPR agreed that it was a bit "young". "MALT HOUSE", near S'shaw Road. Very loud music, telephone on bar, which there would be no point in using, although someone did with inconclusive results. Stained glass on ceiling. Russian alphabet discussed. Sickening carols. "RAILWAY TAVERN" advertised as the best pub in Reading. Confusion re beers but the Chair's expert taste buds managed to distinguish 6X from Burton. Indoor (garden furniture) was sat on by way of seat. "TUDOR TAVERN" - Courage. Games machine did not co-operate. This was followed by the usual curry.

377. 31-12-88 - 01-01-89 LONDON N6 - HIGHGATE: WPR; SAR & N, Rick, COB. It was decided that the New Year should be noted by a Society activity, and in this case it centered around the WPR's residence. A meal was cooked by the WPR for the members present, and at 11.30 p.m. the party went to the "WOODMAN" where the New Year was brought in. It was not too crowded and the clientele were civilised (in some cases, ignoring the temporal phenomenon completely). The COB made a New year's Resolution not to drink Lager, and upheld it, despite a lack of Bitter. He partook of whisky whereas other members had 2 pints Fosters (one in 1988 and one in 1989). Then the COB went in search of Night Buses, while the SAR, WPR and Rick played a game of Trivial pursuits which was eventually (at 6 a.m.) won by the WPR. At this point Rick left, while later the same day the WPR joined the SAR & N on a walk across Hampstead Heath, though the WPR backed off before the final destination was reached: Aunt Pegathesia.