The day started with a dark sense of foreboding due to a power cut in Woking, plus gales and lashing rain en-route to Chatham. On arrival, however, the surgery experience proved well worth the trip.

Twenty-two delegates (sixteen SE Branch members and six others) were welcomed by Paul Darrington, who had expertly administered the event.

Karen Gough most ably directed the course, material for which had been provided by Don Calder. The scenarios and settings were all drawn from Don's recent references and a sincere vote of thanks is due for the three months hard work he put into the excellent preparation of this course material. Dennis James added his expertise as the fourth discussion leader and the assembled arbitrators and hopefuls broke up into their respective discussion groups.

The day consisted of two one hour group syndicate sessions, each followed by a further hour plenary discussion between all delegates and leaders.

The group I joined consisted of two solicitors, two surveyors and a civil engineer, hence a lively interchange ensued. My personal grey matter was rattled unmercifully by the informed argument and discussion. A fair indication that the day had been constructive and beneficial was the way in which the time flew by and all too soon ended. If any improvement could be made, it would be to have all of Don's course material in advance. This was so comprehensive, it could well form the basis of two such events.

I was relieved that the proposed wine at £1.00 per glass did not appear at lunch as my personal reasoning processes may well have diminished.

My own search for a pupil master continues, but at least I know what they look like now.

Many thanks from all the delegates for all the hard work and effort that went into making this an excellent event.