The president opened the evening by congratulating Gloria on her engagement to Alan - we wish them both much happiness! She thanked Kath for the sunny orange and yellow flowers.

There are still places available for the coach trip in August to Stratford.

Members were asked if they would support a trip to the Christmas Market in Bath - an overwhelming ’yes’, so plans will be made for the end of November.

The Birthday meeting in October will be at the Parish Rooms, and the food will be fish n’ chips from Our Plaice. Place your orders tonight please - and bring your own drink on the evening!

Last month’s raffle raised £45.10 for Mary Stevens Hospice, and tonight’s raffle proceeds will be given to the Acorns childrens charity.

Forthcoming events include ‘Passion for Pearls’ at Clent WI on Friday 18th September, and a performance by the Kidderminster Male Voice Choir at the Rose Theatre on Saturday5th September.

We were also told that various fund raising events had raised £1.3 million for a Breast Centre in Worcester, a cause which the WI supports, and plans for its development are proceeding.

We were then entertained by Janet Dickinson who read a number of her own poems which she has written over the years, and which she has recently been persuaded to print in a book, called ‘Poems of a Shropshire Lass’. Her poems were very amusing as well as being sensitive and thought provoking. Jeanette gave a brief report on her recent trip to Denman College, won in the annual bursary, where she attended a course on Moorish and Middle Eastern cookery. We were given a few little tips, but sadly no samples.

The evening’s entertainment ended with a sketch by Doreen and June singing George Formby songs and acting in character.