The Formation of the Probus Club of Liverpool City

Rotary District 9690, District Governor Alan Grady 1993/94, requested Alec Muggleton, President of Rotary Club of Liverpol West, to form a Probus Club in Liverpool. Alec agreed to take on the task and act as convenor when his term as President ended 30 June 1994.

Graham Eldridge, Rotary District 9690 Convenor, was invited to Liverpool West Club and gave a very comprehensive talk on what was involved and gave a promise of any help if needed.

A committee was formed with Alec Muggleton as Convenor, Bill Swan, Max Bunter and Ted Banks.

Committee meetings were held at Alec's home. We had trouble getting a list of possible members together and it was decided that Liverpool Rotary Club be approached to assist. The Rotary Club of Liverpool readily agreed to a joint project and to share all expenses.

Eric Robinson then joined our committee and with his knowledge of people who may be interested in joining Probus, we soon had a list of prospective members. In early 1995, letters were posted to each, inviting them to attend an Interest Meeting at the Liverpool Catholic Club on Wednesday 8 March 1995. Advertisments were also placed in local newspapers.

The Interest Meeting, chaired by Convenor Alec Muggleton, was a tremendous success. Rotary District 9690 representative Graham Eldridge attended and gave an excellent talk to Probus, answering the many questions from interested prospective members. It was resolved the "Probus Club of Liverpool City" be formed.

Graham Eldridge then officiated in the election of officers. Alec declined to stand as President and Eric Robinson was elected Foundation President, Beryl Blums as Secretary and Ted Furley as Treasurer, with 59 people paying their joining fees or registering at this meeting. "Liverpool Probus Club" was away to a great start.

A Charter Meeting was held on Wednesday 5 April 1995 at Liverpool Catholic Club. Graham Eldridge presented the Charter and Collar of Office to President Eric and Foundation Member badges to all members present. At the close of the meeting, our Probus Club had 80 members.

In attendance were Franz Buskermolen and John Adams, Presidents of Rotary Clubs of Liverpoool West and Liverpool.

The Probus Club of  Liverepool City was  up and running.