2018
2018 Peter James stood down as patron and was succeeded by Tamara McKinley, the former Anderida chairperson, who lives locally and is a worldwide best-selling author under both her own name and that of Ellie Dean. As Ellie Dean, Tamara has become a Sunday Times best seller with her much acclaimed series of novels set during World War Two on the south coast of England in the fictional town of Cliffehaven.
Acclaimed international best selling crime thriller novalist, Peter James became our patron in October 2015, but stood down in February 2018 after moving with his wife Lara from East Sussex to Jersey.
Anderida president Tony Flood said: "I got to know Peter when I reviewed stage shows of his work for the Brighton Argus, and I was delighted when he accepted my invitation to be Anderida's patron. He made an instant contribution by raising our profile and acting as an inspiration to our members.
"Previously, we were honoured to have well known actor Jeffrey Holland as the club's patron from 2008 until 2015. Each year, he and his wife Judy Buxton came to Eastbourne to read out the entries at the club's annual writing competition.
"We are now delighted that Tamara, another international best–selling author, has agreed to take over."
Mike Fleming was presented with a service award to show the club's appreciation for his fine work as Chairman and previously Competition Secretary.
Alan Baker took over as Chairman but ill health prevented him attending meetings regularly so Tony Flood found himself filling five roles as the year progressed – president, chairman, newsletter editor, publicity and marketing officer and website editor. Jeff Fleming's poor health caused him to stand down as competition's secretary, with Dave Wells replacing him. It was agreed that guest members could pay fees of £4 per meeting for five meetings and that these fees could count towards the full membership fee of £26.

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