The May meeting, held on a fine spring evening, opened with a flurry of activity around the new “sales table”, manned by Joan and Dell.

The chairman Audrey Phipps gave a warm welcome to everyone.

She gave us the sad new of the death of Olive Gripton, a former member; two of our members had represented the group at her funeral.

A few moments silence was held.

The secretary and treasurers’ reports were given.

The raffle was held; Frankie Baker and Linda Taylor won prizes.

Ann Cooper confirmed that the coach trip to Weston is now fully booked, final payment is due.

To raise further funds Val Thacker invites members to an afternoon tea to be held at her house, 2 o’clock, on June 7.

Our entertainer for the evening was Mr John Teaine.

He gave a potted history of performers renown for their monologues, such as Bob Newhart and Joyce Grenville, and interspersed this with details of why and when several came to be written.

He performed several sketches with great dialogue and feeling.

Appropriate costume changes and accompaniment on flute and guitar gave the right atmosphere to the tales.

We happily joined in the chorus of “ The Bloody Tower” and his final sketch, as a “double” act with his dog Pete was hilarious.

Chris Groves gave the vote of thanks.

Next meeting is at the British Legion, 7.30pm on 2nd June, Margaret and Eugene Schellenberg will enlighten us on The Ifakara Project.

Visitors will be most welcome.