ASTLEY WI: President Irene Hoare welcomed one visitor and began by congratulating Nina Saunders whose wonderful flower arrangement was awarded second place at the county competition at the Annual Council Meeting. Irene gave an overview of the meeting and congratulated Marjorie Whiting, the county chairman, on the brilliance of the day.

Following the presentation of Birthday posies, and the usual thanks to ladies who provided flowers, raffle prizes and to those who did refreshments, there was news of the WI county events coming up over the next few months. There is the opportunity to make a pearl bracelet in March, in April there is an interactive day of guided walks and talks at a farm in Hindlip and for the fun-loving, cerebral among us there is the County Quiz in April. In the immediate future, there is a quiz and supper evening being organized by Bewdley WI on November 25.

The skittles season is well under way and so far Astley’s team has had mixed fortunes. They lost against Mitton WI who scored 135 points to our 128 and our match against Little Witley resulted in an Astley win with Maureen Crumpton being the highest scorer.

The ladies who went to see South Pacific in October had a marvellous time and members are looking forward to the visit to Greyfriars followed by a bit of shopping then lunch.

Mary Arden-Davis was our speaker for the evening who gave a fascinating talk and picture show with the title From Hartlebury to Heaven which was a series of stories about some of the Bishops of Worcester and their parts in British history. It was a brilliant talk and it was thoroughly enjoyed.

The next meeting will be on December 7 at 7.30 pm at Astley Village Hall when The Shrinkin’ Violets will entertain members and their guests followed by a glass of wine and a finger buffet.