Winter 2025

Welcome to the 2024/25 Winter  Terrier.

ACES has a new President – Dan Meek, Director, Estate and Asset Management, at the Norse Group. Many of you will know him from his articles about rural matters featured in ACES’ Terrier. Dan took over at the Annual Meeting, held in the prestigious offices of Fieldfisher in London on 15 November. This Terrier contains Dan’s inaugural speech and several images taken on the day. It also features the panel session jointly presented by representatives from Fieldfisher and corporate members Lambert Smith Hampton. Thanks to all who made this day memorable.

Panel members were young professionals, and this leads me to refer to a few articles in this issue of interest to our FACES colleagues, including the changing direction of practicing (AI and communications) and some guidance to actual or potential counsellors helping APC candidates. Guidance is also given on important legislative changes to procurement and rating. There are more articles from presenters at ACES’ National Conference on net zero and retrofit, plus much more.

Senior Vice President Alan Richards is on a roll and will be walking the Cancer Research UK/British Heart Foundation Public Sector Challenge London Bridges Walk on 18 January 2025. This will be a “limbering up” for the big one in September – Peak Pursuit 2025! I hope members will support the ACES team for that event. Watch out for more information, either walking or sponsoring.

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I can hardly believe that the Selwyn series closes with this issue. The biggest of thank yous, Dave Pogson, for all the entertainment you’ve given your most avid reader – the Editor – and no doubt lots of other ACES’ Terrier readers. I will miss you, Selwyn and his friends. But this issue has a bonus – see also Dave’s article on AI and his invitation to colleagues.

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Betty Albon, Editor