IT was a pleasure to meet up again in summer time, and particularly good to find our secretary, Jackie Taylor, back in post following an absence of a couple of months due to more pressing commitments at home.

Viv Jackman welcomed a rather diminished group. There were many apologies accepted, a couple of forthcoming birthdays to celebrate and thanks were given to Eve Lane for standing in for Jackie's secretarial role.

Viv reminded all of the resolutions meeting in May, and requested support for the fund raising event in September by stocking up the sales table with suitable merchandise.

Jackie's correspondence, as always, was lengthy. The minutes were omitted but left to be read by anyone who wished to do so.

The speakers for the evening, Tony Chipp and Ann Bucknall with their topic Humorous Poems, were introduced by Viv. Tony wrote poetry and Ann did monologues, but their style complemented each other, with their simple humour and quiet reflections upon human nature and everyday events. The group were amused and entertained on a diverse range of subjects.

A request by Tony for a member to read his poem entitled WI Calendar was recited by Val Stinton. She fulfilled this request in such an accomplished theatrical manner that the group applauded her efforts vigorously - so move over Calendar Girls!

Tony and Ann brought their evening of poetry to an end, but were quickly followed by Marlene Smith, a Comer WI member with her poem, written when she turned 60.

The evening eventually ended with much laughter and more applause.

A vote of thanks was given to Tony and Ann by Eve Lane and refreshments were served by Eileen Grayson and Jessie Joyner.

MRS B M LORD