NfCG York Conference ‘99 - The Big Event
Our last Annual Conference of not just the Century but the Millennium, is going to be an occasion to remember - put the dates in your diary now - September 10, 11 and 12. The theme of the Conference is Consumer Consultation in the new Millennium and, to that end, the main event will be a multifaceted and multitalented forum to air views about consumer consultation. There will be a representative from that new Government initiative in consultation, the People’s Panel; the National Consumer Council will add its views, and there will be others yet to be confirmed. The extensive programme is outlined below.
Personally, I am delighted that the Conference is taking place in York, one of my favourite cities. York’s most famous attraction is the Minster, now happily fully restored after that disastrous fire, but there is much else to enjoy. It is a Roman City, Eboracum, where Constantine the Great was proclaimed Emperor in AD306. The Romans built a fortress, then the Vikings took it over and renamed it Jorvik, later anglicised to York. During the Middle Ages great fortifications were built and many remain to this day, including the entire outer walls of the medieval City. Inside the walls are the Snickleways. These are a network of twisting narrow alleyways, begun in Roman times to provide shortcuts to markets or business.
More modern history can be found in the National Railway Museum, in the centre of York. If you want to immerse yourself in life in Viking times then visit the Jorvik Centre. Finally, the Castle Museum is one of the finest folk museums in the country. Do not forget to allow time to attend the Conference!
John Brown
FRIDAY CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
For delegates arriving early, there will be suggestions for visits on Friday and a rendezvous for lunch at a famous pub.
After registration in the late afternoon, there will be an official reception and dinner with Professor Patrick Nuttgens as speaker. Patrick is an Emeritus Professor and former Director of Leeds Metropolitan University. He is a well-known local historian and broadcaster.
SATURDAY CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
Much more will be made of the Exhibition this year and all aspects of NfCG’s work will be on show, including the Millennium project.
After a welcome from NfCG Chairman, Marie Jennings, Groups will make presentations of their recent activities.
The second half of the morning will be devoted to a Keynote Forum about Consumer Consultation in the New Millennium. Four acknowledged leaders in the consumer field will join NfCG Chairman, Marie Jennings to speak, answer questions and join in debate with members.
The afternoon will be devoted to Workshops entitled:
A Plenary session will end the afternoon’s business.
Delegates will be able to enjoy a Saturday night out in York, with entertainment.
SUNDAY CONFERENCE PROGRAMME
The Annual General Meeting will be opened by NfCG President, Baroness Wilcox of Plymouth.
After coffee, there will be an Executive Committee Meeting, to which Conference delegates are invited.
The programme is subject to change. A brochure will be produced and circulated in due course.
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