Above all, we need plenty of branch activity. In November I called for more branch social and fundraising events, and for the recruitment of new members. Some branches – you know who you are – have responded quite splendidly. For others, how should I put it, your best days lie ahead! So I repeat my plea tonight – but this time the need for action is urgent. Remember, to quote George Osborne, we are all in this together.

And, another plea. Let’s all be singing from the same hymn sheet. Please, no casual remarks or critical comments at an unguarded moment. Or any hint of differences of opinion in public. Let us give no comfort to our political opponents or to mischief-makers from the local press. We need a steady ship with everyone pulling in the same direction, not a rocking boat with people diving overboard.

I know I can rely on you all to give Damian and his team the strongest possible support. And that’s why we’ve invited some of our most active members who are not on the Executive to join us here tonight so that they can pass the message on and engage their local troops.

Next weekend, Jonathan and Vivien Holborow, and myself, will be at the party’s Spring Forum in Brighton. It will of course be a pre-election rally. The General Election can’t come soon enough – and the good news is that tradition will be maintained as it has been confirmed that there will be an overnight count in the Leas Cliff Hall. Let us ensure that the tradition of a Conservative victory in Folkestone and Hythe will also be maintained.

We want a thumping majority for Damian, for our party, and for David Cameron. TALLY-HO! NUMBER TEN HASTENS!  You might not know that this is an anagram of LET’S THRASH LYNNE BEAUMONT!

Have a good evening, and feel free to continue to buy drinks. After all, this is the only Conservative Club in the constituency, and it deserves our support.

Ever onwards and upwards!