South Downs Probus Club
From Mike Bowman
I joined the South Downs branch of Probus over a year ago and what an interesting experience it has been.
Initially I thought the monthly lunches with specialist speakers were a great idea. An inexpensive lunch with added knowledge provided on a whole range of topics seemed like good value. The speakers have been exceptional. What I hadn't bartered for was the diverse and interesting people I sat with during lunch. Their backgrounds and lives were equally fascinating.
As I got further into the year as examples the trips to Ricardo Engineering and Charleston House provided an amazing contrast and demonstrated the breadth of what the club organises. To be able to share these with my wife was an added bonus.
As a non profit making club everything is also great value, often cheaper than the general public can obtain, with the bonus of guides to fully explain what is in front of you, thereby bringing it to life.
Thank you Probus for adding several new dimensions to my newly retired life.
From Neil
Probus is more than about making friends, it is more than coming together to learn about a diverse range of subjects, it is more than a social club or a place to meet like minded people. It is a place to feel comfortable, to go beyond some of the pitfalls of the business world, to reminisce a little and enjoy a wonderful atmosphere. For me it is a transition from work not to retirement but a new direction.
I joined probus nearly two years ago and have enjoyed the range of activities in the programme. At the heart of this is meeting and talking with members from a wide range of professional and business backgrounds and with very varied life experience. The speakers at lunches have also been very varied and broadened out my appreciation of areas I have not considered before. We have also had the opportunity to involve our partners in some very interesting visits / guided tours - from the recycling plant to historic buildings, as well as at enjoyable social events. I/we have appreciated the widening of our experience in a convivial social group.
From Alan Currer