ANY thoughts of post-Christmas dieting had to be abandoned at our January meeting as the speaker Yvonne Everest, founder of the company “The Chocolate Tree” not only demonstrated the various techniques she uses when working with chocolate but had also brought samples for members to taste. It was easy to see why her company, which makes chocolate gifts, is successful as she has a very enthusiastic “can do” approach and she seems to enjoy the challenges in creating new products. We were very grateful that Yvonne had agreed to come on such a stormy night and at such short notice as the speaker we had booked was unable to join us due to a car accident. President Mary Harrison was delighted to welcome many guests and in particular three new members. She also thanked members for helping with the Group Carol Service – it was good to see many friends from other WIs. This year’s new programme was available with an interesting variety of speakers, outings to Westonbirt Arboretum and to Worcester’s Tudor House are being planned and the many workshops organised by the county federation were advertised. Members also submitted their choice of resolution for the NFWI annual general meeting in June. This year it will be extra-special as we celebrate the centenary of the WI.

MRS J McLEISH