FORTY-EIGHT members attended our September meeting. Chairman Audrey Phipps said she hoped everyone had enjoyed the summer break.

She welcomed Mr Malcolm Hewitt and five visitors from St Michaels Church, Himley and St Johns Church, Swindon plus friends who had knitted blankets for the hospital patients in Addis Ababa.

Apologies were given. Secretary Pam Ingmanread the minutes of the July meeting and treasurer Sheila Evans gave the financial report.

Names were taken for the luncheon to be held at The Stone Manor on October 16th at 12.30pm.

This consists of a 3-course meal with wine and coffee; the cost is £14.50, payment due next meeting. We will use our own transport, lifts to be arranged as required.

Audrey thanked the committee for preparing the appetising harvest supper. The outlay has been paid for out of club funds.

Two members invited ladies to activities being held in Swindon and Wallheath during this month.

Ann Cooper introduced Mr Malcolm Hewitt, and explained how his earlier talk on the plight of the fistula patients had” touched the hearts” of members and friends; who, since then have knitted between 30-40 blankets, several of which were displayed on the stage.

Mr Hewitt expressed his thanks and appreciation, explaining how four of the outreach hospitals are now in full operation generating a greater number of patients. Should members wish to continue knitting blankets or bed socks he will arrange collection of them.

Members and guests then helped themselves to the extensive and tasty buffet and desserts.

The evening concluded with an auction of the products provided by members, as usual Sheila proved to be a good auctioneer and a total of £66.00 was raised.

Next meeting is at the British Legion on October 16th.

Hillary Fellows is presenting “Elegant Flowers”. All visitors and members are most welcome.