As gas and electricity companies announce more price rises the TTBS increased the help it gives to those ex-members of the trade who have fallen on hard times. Earlier this month the TTBS paid a special winter warmer grant of £100 to most of its beneficiaries, with another £100 to be paid in May when the winter fuel bills begin to arrive.

As well as these two special payments, the TTBS board agreed to increase the value of the regular quarterly payments sent out to those in need. The cost in a full year of the winter fuel grants and increased quarterly payments will be in the region of £24,000.

TTBS general manager Malcolm Job commented: “While our investments give us a solid core of income, it is thanks to the fund-raising efforts of our volunteer regional committees as well as the support of timber trade associations and clubs around the country that we have been able to help take the sting out of the winter bills for our beneficiaries.”

• The TTBS annual general meeting and luncheon will take place on May 13 at the RAF Club, Piccadilly, London. Those attending should let TTBS know in advance for security reasons.

Only a handful of places is left for the TTBS national golf day on July 4 at Breadsall Priory. A waiting list will be started if necessary.