It is a great pleasure to write my first welcome to a BERA Annual Conference. The city of Newcastle has a personal connection for me because my daughter studied at Northumbria University and my son is studying at The University of Newcastle. As a result I know Newcastle quite well and so can say with some knowledge what a great city it is.

BERA goes from strength to strength. Membership of BERA has never been higher. The range of activities of BERA has never been so rich and wide ranging. And the high quality of research on offer at conference is a pleasure to learn about. The success of BERA conference is a tribute to all involved, particularly the BERA office staff. But I also want to say a particular thank you to Felicity Wikeley who has done so much to lead BERA conference over many years, and who has been such a support in passing the role to me.

We look forward to seeing you in Newcastle.

                                    Professor Dominic Wyse
Chair of BERA’s Conference and Events Committee