THE president, Maureen Smith, welcomed members back after the summer break.

Ann Darlow was thanked for organising the trip to Bodenham Arboretum, which was lovely, although it had rained throughout. Names were taken of those attending the autumn council meeting. The speaker Sue Coombes told us about the RNLI, which is the fourth emergency service and is co-ordinated by the coastguard. It is the oldest in the world, but is modern and efficient, men and women, who when the call comes drop everything to save strangers' lives. Donations are the only way the money comes in.

Del Southwell gave the vote of thanks and six ladies won raffle prizes.