ART SOCIETY: At the October meeting, members and guests were treated to a masterclass in painting portraits in oils, by Rob Waring, a South African artist with an international reputation. Members were shown copies of many of his portraits of heads of countries in South Africa.

At this month's meeting on November 16, members will see a demonstration in watercolour painting by Archie Nicholas.

The results of this summer's outdoor painting sessions will also be judged. Members are asked to bring all of their paintings.

All the members were shocked at the sudden death of Marion Thompson, a tireless and enthusiastic worker for the society.

The duties of membership secretary have been taken over by Maggie Fileman who can be contacted at 4, Smallbrook Road, Broadway, telephone 01386 852728.

Evesham Art Society meets at the Friends Meeting House, Cowl Street, 7.15pm for 7.30pm on the third Wednesday of each month. Non-members welcome, entrance £2.

CIVIC SOCIETY: The story of the Civil War in the Vale of Evesham is the subject of this month's talk to the Civic Society by county archaeologist Malcolm Atkin. The title of his talk is Oppression and Resistance - Experience in the Vale of Evesham during the Civil War.

The mixed reactions of Evesham people to the dilemmas posed by the Civil War provide scope for what promises to be a fascinating talk. All are welcome to the meeting, which will be in the Public Library in Oat Street at 7.30pm on Monday, November 14.