THE meeting was held at 2.30pm on April 19 in the village hall. President Helena Downham welcomed everyone and confirmed that the arrangements for the visit to Highgrove House on April 24 followed by lunch in Tetbury were complete. We have been looking forward to this trip for a long time.

The speaker, Anne Newell, spoke about the county air ambulance service which covers 11 counties in the Midlands. Her slides showed us the logistics of running the helicopters and the range of jobs undertaken - it was quite an eye-opener for some of us.

It all began in 1991 with one helicopter flying from RAF Cosford. There are now three larger aircraft. From June this year, there will be a doctor accompanying the two paramedics and crew. The hours of operation will be extended. This service is funded entirely by voluntary contributions. Jo Norris gave the vote of thanks.

The competition for Something Red And Wearable was won by Liz Chestney.

The next meeting will be held at 2.30pm on Thursday, May 17, when we will discuss resolutions. The competition: "Your favourite poem or one you have composed."

JO NORRIS