St Mark's church hall looked very festive for the December meeting, complete with decorations and Christmas tree.

The tables had a centre flower decoration made by Joan Brand and a quiz had been placed on each one.

When members and guests arrived they put a present in the bran tub. There was also a trading stall which was full of nice items so business was brisk.

Barbara Rowberry welcomed everyone as the president Maureen Matthews was unable to be there.

The minutes of the last meeting were not read and business was very brief. Programmes for 2008 were distributed to members. Jean read a letter from Mary James thanking the WI for the shoeboxes they gave to the St Barnabas Christmas Appeal.

Members then had the answers to the quiz as the speakers had not arrived. Seven tables had top marks, so numbers were drawn to decide which one received a small prize for each person on the table.

The speakers for the evening were Anne Bucknan and Tony Chipp who entertained with a selection of poems and monologues.

Dilys Round was invited to recite a poem which they gave her. She also gave them the vote of thanks and invited them to stay for the evening.

The buffet was on a long table at the end of the room and looked so inviting with a variety of savoury foods and gorgeous trifles, gateaux and cheesecakes. Guests and members were told to help themselves while the committee provided a variety of drinks for everyone.

Mr Chipp judged Barbara Rowberry's snowman the winner of the monthly competition.

There is always a good raffle at Christmas with many lovely prizes, the first ticket out belonged to one of the visitors.

The evening ended with everyone dipping their hand in the bran tub to claim their present. It was a good evening and everyone was wished a very happy Christmas.

When the WI meets again the speaker for the evening will talk about Faberge Eggs.