The current membership stands at 57. It is with great sadness that we record the death of Dr. Lewis Castleden; he is sorely missed by all who knew him.

The committee has met five times since the last AGM and approved the following items of expenditure: -

1. A new cassock for Mark James.
2. A donation towards the Flower Fund.
3. A new Urn for St. Mary's room.
4. Support to the Youth group.
5. Provision of an evening meal for the Walk Rodings team.

Social and Fund Raising Events included: -

1. The "Unlock Walk" in the Lewisham/Greenwich areas, raised over £1000.00 in sponsorship for the Inner London Churches
2. Helping with the Friends of Essex Churches sponsored Cycle Ride in September, which raised £100.50 towards our funds.
3. The Fish & Chip Supper in November, which was well supported, yielded a profit of around £90.00. Our thanks go again to Brian Goodey, and especially to David Ainge for providing the entertainment.
4. A Tea Party with a talk in aid of Tearcraft in January was well attended and well received. The "Friends" gave a donation towards the work of Tearcraft.
5. Providing refreshments at Remembrance Services, Lessons and Carols Service and Confirmation. Organising the Bring and Share Lunch, assisting with the organisation for Mark's Ordination and lunch that followed.

The Friends continue to run the Coffee Rota with thanks to Jay Ainge, and also to John Doe for helping with the supplies. Events planned for later this year include The Unlock Walk around Bermondsey and the Isle of Dogs. Sponsor a Hymn, A Harvest Lunch, Supporting the Friends of Essex Churches Sponsored Ride & Stride and the Fish and Chip Supper. The Friends intend to give donations towards the cost of the Palm crosses and Flower fund. We are hoping to organise a Safari Supper in 2008.

My thanks are given to the Committee for their excellent attendance and support during the year, with special thanks to our Secretary, Pat (the wife), Treasurer, Sue Walker and Accounts examiner Wendy Townsend.

Finally we record our thanks to the Rev. Canon David Ainge, for his interest and guidance.