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BDA Conference 1999, Torquay, April 29-May 1

Scientific sessions aside, there are a wealth of other reasons to visit the BDA conference in Torquay

The town of Torquay owes its origins to the officers of the British Fleet who visited it during the Napoleonic Wars as a select watering place. The period between the two wars saw Torquay develop into a holiday resort. With one of the most equable climates in Britain, a wealth of excellent sport and leisure facilities and beautiful surrounding countryside the attraction is clear to see.

The two venues for the conference — The Riviera Centre and the Grand Hotel (venue for the symposium) both face the elegant sweeping bay and harbour. The calm pace of life and friendly atmosphere is one of the most noticeable aspects about Torquay. These are perhaps some of the reasons why so many have planned to take an extended break over the bank holiday weekend.

Day trips

Delegates should take advantage of non-conference time to visit the charming villages that surround Torquay or have a go at the excellent range of watersports. Alternatively, organised day-trips and evening social events are on offer. There are still some places available, but book now to avoid disappointment.

On Friday April 30 there will be a day trip to Dartmoor and Buckfast Abbey, which will run from 10am to 5pm. Participants will be taken through the glorious Devon countryside starting with a visit to Widecombe, the 'Village in the Moor' with its Cathedral Church and View of Haytor and Hound Tor rocks. Moving on to Bovey Tracey there will be a chance to visit the pottery before continuing to Buckfast Abbey for lunch.

The afternoon will include time to visit the Abbey, its extensive grounds and speciality shops, before returning to Torquay following the River Dart from Dartbridge to Paignton via Totnes.

For those who want something a little more taxing there is the chance to take up clay pigeon shooting. Aimed at the novice or beginner, this programme has been organised by Devon Country Pursuits. Guests will be split into teams with a dedicated instructor for each team. Coach travel and refreshments are included in the ticket price.

Colour me beautiful

A special workshop will take place on Friday afternoon. Viv Napper from Colour Me Beautiful will show how participants can 'make the most of theirselves' through colour advice, style tips and make-up techniques. She will show how wearing colours that compliment natural colouring make people look younger, healthier and feel more confident.

Boat cruise

In the evening there will be the chance for delegates and their partners to let their hair down and relax on the Jazz Evening Boat Cruise. The Devonair Belle and The Dartmouth Castle will cruise along the lower reaches of the River Dart, sailing as far as Totnes. Guests can admire the scenic views as they enjoy a buffet, wine and dancing to the superb Riviera Music Jazz Band and the Teign Valley Stompers.

For those wanting some fresh air and gentle exercise after the night before, Saturday's events will include a morning coastal ramble from Goodrington to Brixham Quay. Starting with wonderful views towards Berry Head, the path continues down to Elberry Cove, a well-known beauty spot, leaving behind the impressive panorama of the whole of Torbay. Passing through the woodland walk descending to Churchston and Fiscombe coves, the path eventually follows the sea wall to reach Brixham Harbour.

Events for all the family

New for this year are events for the whole family. On Saturday afternoon, Devon Country Pursuits have organised an activity afternoon, which will include laser shooting, archery and Honda Pilots grass-track racing cars. Fully qualified instructors will be on hand, including the current Devon and Cornwall Archery Champion.

Presidential dinner

The conference and its activities will culminate in the Presidential Dinner at the Imperial Hotel on Saturday evening. This will be held in the Torbay Suite of this elegant five-star hotel which overlooks the coast.

The evening will include entertainment by Lester Ellman GDP, a professional bass-baritone, who will be accompanied on piano by John Shaw, a retired GDP. Guest speaker will be Patrick Tansey, who has established an excellent reputation as one of the most entertaining after-dinner speakers. Dancing will then follow to the Imperial Band in the Palm Court or a disco in the Piano Bar.

There are so many reasons to attend the Conference. Book now to guarantee yourself a place.