Some Council members were unable to attend due to the icy conditions, and after much email negotiation and inspection of weather forecasts, the meeting went ahead but was relocated to Manchester.

The meeting began with prayerful reflection on 2 Corinthians 4 - treasure in earthen vessels, - and included sharing of a supporter’s offering of Isaiah 43 v2. connected to an image of snowdrops pushing through snow, which seemed particularly apt.

The arrangements for the Licensing day on Feb 7th were confirmed. Some individual invitations would be issued, including people representative of the local community as well as friends and supporters. Many visitors are expected from Phil’s church in London, Space was expected to be tight, and a relay to the Marsh Lounge would be organised.

Phil had offered a list of potential priorities for the first weeks and months of his new role, which were supported by the Council.

The adjustments to the Business plan discussed at the last meeting were agreed. Philip Ratcliff’s HR expertise was welcomed as elements of planning for the new community were approved.

The intention to keep the house in use during building works - albeit in what may have to be a limited way - was reiterated, and a bookings policy discussed.

The Christmas mailing was felt to have been a success, and had been well received. Gratitude was again expressed to Penny, Sarah and Hilary for their input, Richard Smith for his design work, and the team of volunteers who had stuffed envelopes to meet the deadline.

Another publication is planned in time for Easter. Written contributions from Council members were invited.

Preparations are well in hand for the Sunday service radio broadcast from Scargill, which is to take place on Sunday 21st February at 8.10am on Radio 4.

The Festive Weekend Dec 11-13 had been a success, and much appreciated. It has also raised funds, and encouraged the possibility of more similar events in the future.

Scargill Movement representatives had been well received at the Lee Abbey Movement gathering early in the New Year, and the ongoing prayerful and practical support from Lee Abbey, much appreciated.

The website redesign is underway, but not yet visible.

It was formally agreed, following an earlier discussion, that the charity’s name should be ‘Scargill Movement’. Thus dropping ‘The’ from the title, and ensuring consistency..

A significant legacy had been gratefully received, and in addition, the monthly giving of on average £5-6K, was so far covering basic running costs. There was some £200K in hand, and a further £70K available presently held in a charitable trust, which could be called in if required. The twin needs for funding, of the first phase of building work and repayment of the loan from Lee Abbey will place considerable call on the generosity of existing supporters in the next few months. Council members committed to giving a lead in this by pledging regular giving/one-off donations. An update on the situation would be given by Tony H at the Open meeting following the Licensing on February 7th.

The Northern Fund-Raising Group’s meeting had to be cancelled due to bad weather, and will be rescheduled. The formal Fund-Raising appeal will be launched later in 2010

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Concern was expressed about the dangers of ongoing .confusion when it came to giving/legacies, between Scargill Movement and the Wharfedale Foundation. The Chairman agreed to write both to the Charity Commissioners and the Chair of the Wharfedale Foundation.