The new Chairman is Stephen Pewsey of Loughton Historical Society. He is also a Loughton town councillor, editor of Forest News and Essex Wire, and a committee member of BALH, as well as working for the British Museum. The new patron, Lord Petre, H.M. Lord Lieutenant of Essex, was present, also the Deputy Mayor of Thurrock, John Everett shown in the picture with Brian Burton.

After the main business of the AGM, Jonathan Catton, Thurrock Heritage and Museum Officer, gave an entertaining illustrated talk on the history of Purfleet, followed by a talk on Coalhouse Fort by Ken Levy, Vice Chairman of the CHF Project.

After an appetizing buffet, Alan Gosling of Purfleet Heritage and Military Centre, opened the museum for the visitors who came from all corners of the County. Many of the visitors took advantage of the sunny weather to stroll along the paved walk by the Thames before returning to the Proof House for refreshments which rounded off a very pleasant day.