Looking Back, Moving Forward
As we enter a new year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this year’s annual report. The dedication and effort from our volunteers is truly inspiring, and the report stands as a testament to what we can achieve together.

Reflections on Leadership
Approaching the Annual General Meeting, I find myself reflecting on my first two years as TVAM Chair. Throughout this time, I’ve championed the principles that make TVAM a welcoming and empowering organisation. Our leadership team’s role is to support every volunteer, enabling you to deliver on your commitments and make a real members have a range of responsibilities, everything we do is rooted in these core values.
Accountability is also central to our work. The committee is answerable to the entire membership, and the AGM is a vital opportunity for you to hear what we’ve been doing, ask questions, and challenge our decisions. Your scrutiny and support are essential as we plan for the year ahead.

Opportunities to Get Involved
A healthy organisation thrives on fresh ideas and new energy. That’s why it’s important for new people to join the committee and for existing members to limit their tenure. This approach keeps our team dynamic, prevents the concentration of power, and ensures we remain adaptable. If you’re interested in helping, please don’t hesitate to come forward – even if you see someone else in a role you’d like to try. Simply expressing your interest helps us plan for the future and strengthens the committee.

Keeping Skills Sharp: My Aardvark Experience
On a more personal note, I recently completed my own Aardvark – a one-day coaching and assessment session with Rapid Training, designed to keep Observer riding skills sharp. Like many, I look forward to these sessions, even when the weather isn’t on our side.
On the day, it was bitterly cold – what my wife calls “not a bike day”. I walked out the front of my house. My neighbour Andy came out and said, “I saw you do the twisty foot thing in the road”. He was right, the road was a sheet of ice.
So, I contacted the group and said the weather is below my minimums. No one suggested I should come regardless, we merely agreed to delay for an hour. After the hour, the temperature had come up a little, and I was happy to proceed. My layers of clothing kept me warm all day, and with a little care the roads were enjoyable.
For me, the only limit is the risk of ice – otherwise, I encourage everyone to ride year-round and enjoy the roads safely.
See You Soon
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. Ride safe, and I look forward to seeing you at St. Crispin’s.

Kevin Dunwell
TVAM Chair