AT the meeting on June 25, Jan Monk talked All About Hats.

She began by speaking about the history of this fascinating subject, starting with the first material - straw, and how, around the 17th century, the Italian Leghorn was the best quality hat to have - for the rich at least.

Named after the Italian town and also the technique of weaving, it was extremely strong, smooth in surface and yet very flexible.

As with clothing, fashions were dictated by the social influences of the day.

Foreign explorations during late Victorian times brought a fashion for exotic feathers and even small stuffed birds on hats.

Interestingly, the main natural materials and also the techniques for making hats have changed very little.

Jan illustrated her talk with photographs and also many, many hats she had brought along.

Some of the 20th century ones brought a smile to the audience when modelled by Merry Wives themselves.

The vote of thanks was given by Mandy Williams and the raffle was won by Chris McCarthy.

The next meeting on July 9 will be a guided walk around Leamington Spa.

Lifts will be available, leaving from the Greig Hall at 7pm.