LADIES' GUILD: Members were transported to the South West of Ireland at the start of their New Year's meeting, when the speaker, Ray Sturdy, showed slides taken when he and a group of Mencap supporters undertook a cycle tour of that area to raise money for Mencap. He reminded his audience that Brian Rix was one of the founders of Mencap. Ray would be donating his fee for the talk to that charity.

After the tea break, Mrs Herbert was congratulated and thanked for directing the Guilded Lilies in their performance at the guild's Christmas lunch and at two other events. They are now rehearsing for three more functions.

Voting took place for this year's charity and Pershore Cottage Hospital was chosen. Members were reminded that nominations for the committee should be received by the end of the meeting and that subscriptions were due.

A letter of thanks had been sent from Mrs M James expressing her gratitude for the support from members following their son's death.

Mrs Botterill reported that she had contacted Tony May about the Skoda fund-raising trip to Prague and that it had been a success, raising £27,100 for Macmillan Nurses, but the sad news was that the Blue Streak, sponsored by the guild, had broken down in East Germany and could not be repaired there, but is now back in Warwick.

Mrs Dallimore said the next skittles meeting will be on January 17 and that their pre-Christmas party had been greatly enjoyed.

At the recent meeting of the literary appreciation group, the Book of Splendour by Francis Sherwood had been discussed.

The sales table raised £26.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 7 in Wulstan Hall at 2pm, when, as well as the annual meeting, there will be a second birthday party, including a free raffle and a quiz.