Recently, whilst visiting friends in Stretton Grandison, I read the June 21 edition of Ledbury Reporter.

There was an article in Malvern Memories on the demon drink with a quote from Earl of Beauchamp, Madres-field Court.

My grandmother, Kate Louisa Taysom was born in 1887 and lived at The Wyche. I can remember her talking about the Earl of Beauchamp and Madresfield Court, which was opened every year so that the locals could wander around the grounds and see the spring flowers.

As a young woman she was a member the Women's Temperance Union because it was the 'right' type of organisation for a young woman to join. She would be given the name of a family suffering because the husband drank his wages. Her job was to visit this family, assess the situation and report to the committee. The committee discussed each case and a level of assistance was offered.

My grandmother and sister Melrose came to Australia in 1913.

She received several telegrams from the Queen as she lived to the wonderful age of 107 and 2 months.

I wonder if there are any relatives who would be interested in contacting me?

Linley Batterham, 517 Marmion St, Booragoon 6154, Western Australia, lbatt@global.net.au