THE Drum Housing group this week defended itself against criticism that it splashed out on lavish entertainment at its annual meeting and produced expensive glossy reports.

The criticism followed what could be Drum's last annual meeting which took place in the Olivier Theatre at Bedales School. Chairman Brian Keys used the occasion to announce that Drum is to merge with the Downland Housing Group.

A full version of this story can be found in the Petersfield Herald of October 13, 2000.