TBBWI – June 2025 Meeting Minutes

Record of the main Meeting held at South Weald Parish Hall at 8pm on 18 th June, 2025

Mike Brace, former Paralympic skier, and his guide dog, King.

Our president, Jane, opened the meeting and welcomed 62 members. Housekeeping and
notices were given including a request for volunteers to make a Victoria sandwich cake for
next July’s party. Jane briefly gave feedback on the NWFI AGM watch party held by Rosa
who wasn’t able to attend this evening. Rosa will give a more detailed account next month.

Liz explained about the ‘Poppies on the Pier project’, a yarnbombing attempt to cover the
entire length of Southend pier in knitted or crocheted poppies for November. She has
registered our contribution and explained that patterns are available and that she will collect
completed poppies.

Jane then extended a very warm welcome to our guest speaker, Mike
Brace and to his lovely guide dog, King. Mike gave a very inspiring talk with lots of funny
anecdotes on the theme, ‘It’s ability that counts’. He modestly glossed over the fact that he
had featured on ‘This is Your Life’ and briefly outlined his Olympic achievements among
others. After answering a couple of questions, Mike finished with a powerful and thought-
provoking quote from his autobiography, ‘Disability is a state of mind, my state, your minds!’

During the break, members chatted to Mike and hisvery obedient companion, King. Jane
read the challenge cup entries to him and Mike judged the acronyms of ABILITY as follows:-
1st place – Helen B. – 4 points,
2nd place – Rosemarie W.– 3 points
3rd place – Maggie S. – 2 points.
All the entrants were congratulated and all receive a point.

After the break, members enjoyed some social time and because it was a very hot and sticky
evening, Jane thanked Mike and officially closed the meeting early at 9.30pm. This then
gave members the opportunity to purchase Mike’s autobiography with all proceeds going to
charity.

The meeting closed at 9.30pm.