31 May 08 - Awareness Day, East Anglian Region

The day was very successful and exceeded expectations. All East Anglian Region branches were represented, and we had people from north of Lincoln making the journey. Some branches laid on coaches to ensure a good turn out.

Basildon town square is a very busy place, but we had a substantial area taped off for the demos, and the taijiquan was almost non-stop from 10:30am to after 4pm. Many of us did up to eight sets during the day and also a fair smattering of don-yus etc The weather was wonderful, which added to the occasion. Plenty of people watched us and gave applause at the end of each set. We must have given out a few thousand handouts on the day, with members mingling with the crowds and chatting about our Society.

The biggest set took place at 2pm, with over 260 people. We believe that this could be a record for the UK.

In addition to all this, a local church hall was booked for resting, tea & cakes etc. and members of the local South West Essex branch came up trumps with a wonderful selection of cakes and home cooked spring rolls. This was an unexpected bonus and testament to the volunteer ethic of the society.