OUR talk for the evening was ‘Hatches, Matches and Dispatches’ given by Fiona Rhodes, who had worked for many years as a Deputy Registrar in Worcestershire. Fiona had now retired from that role, and was currently solely concerned with Dispatches, having become a Humanist Celebrant for funerals. Fiona outlined some of the legal aspects of her work as Registrar, admitting that she found dealing with deaths the most rewarding. Above all, she spoke of how much she had appreciated being part of the cycle of life, and to be party to the love and pride within families. Her two mantras had become – ‘never assume or make judgements’ and ‘keep calm and carry on’.

During the past month, a team had entered The Festival of Words Quiz held at Hampton Ferry. This had been quite challenging, but they managed to gain a creditable fourth place.

The visit to the Delphinium fields on a very hot day had been enjoyable, looking at the beautiful flowers, followed by tea and cake sitting in the welcome shade.

The Strawberry Tea would be at Hampton Farm Shop on 25 July.

There would be no meeting during August, but some members were visiting the Tomato Growers at Lower Moor, followed by tea at Craycombe.

Looking forward to September, the venue for our lunch will be Raphael’s. Our next meeting on 14 September will be a Bring and Share Supper, when the competition is a home-made dessert (to be eaten after supper, of course!).

Our meetings are held in Hampton Guide and Scout Community Hall, and if you would like to join us, you would be made most welcome. Meetings start at 7.30pm on the second Thursday of each month. For further details please ring 01386 443755.

LIZ RODWAY