Dear Member
After what seemed to be a difficult year in 2009, I hope everyone, including myself is looking forward to the “green shoots of recovery” in 2010.
The business association worked hard in 2009 on behalf of its members to develop Emsworth as a prime destination, enhancing the appearance of the town, and working hard with the council to improve footfall.
So what have we been up to?
SUNDAY MARKETS
This started off well in the spring with the St Georges market and also another good event in the summer. However the Seafood market and the Xmas market failed to meet up to the EBAs expectations. The Xmas market was a wash out, due to such bad weather and not to mention a rather cold wet and disgruntled eba committee, who gave up their Sunday to help.
We have therefore taken the decision to have only two markets this year in the better weather period. These will be Sunday 25th April St George’s day, and Sunday 18th July (theme to confirm)
We hope this will bring more people into Emsworth but more importantly enable them to shop without getting soaking wet or freezing cold.
St GEORGES DAY
The 2009 event was a huge success and supported by thousands of people, so again this year a three day event is planned with the main emphasis on the parade on Friday 23rd April in the morning. Details of road closures and events happening across Emsworth will be advertised nearer the time, in shop windows and newspaper advertising.
More details will also be available HERE on the OFFICIAL EBA website.
BOAT PROJECT
One of our main projects in 2009 was to enhance the approach to Emsworth from the western approach. This was heavily funded by the revenue of the Emsworth food Festival and additional funding from the EBA.
I think you will agree this again lifts the profile of Emsworth as you approach and once the planting has established itself , it will compliment our other boat at the eastern approach, which still continues to receive great praise from the residents and businesses of Emsworth.
SUMMER BBQ
Sunday 16th August ( a lovely hot day) was the EBA summer bbq. Over a 100 members, family and friends attended a wonderful bbq at the Kings Arms. Many members had the chance to chat with other members on a social basis.
This was a huge success and we intend to do a similar event in 2010 at the Lord Raglan on August 1st.
Please look out for details
CHARITY BALL
Although we were unable to organise such an event in 2009, the organisation is under way for this years charity ball.
Again please keep a look out for details.
Many other ideas are being put forward for the coming year to encourage the members to get involved and support the organisation. We are all volunteers who give up our time to keep the EBA going and support the businesses in Emsworth.
May I just finally say thank you to all our members who have supported us, and look forward to you joining us in 2010
David Wagg
Acting Chairman
