PRESIDENT Marjy introduced Jane Wilson to the new committee and the programme for the coming year was handed out. We are looking forward to running refreshments at Ashton Open gardens in June and our own garden party in August ( hoping for fine weather for both events). Members were encouraged to put on their ‘thinking caps’ and come up with ideas for decorated hats for our special September meeting.

Our speaker for the evening was Alan Hudson on “The History of Tea”. There was an amazing wealth of information on the humble British cuppa. We learned that tea was originally an upmarket and expensive drink for the aristocracy until it became the drink of the masses in the 20th century. Linked with our trading in India and the far East it was a highly taxed commodity. This led to smuggling in the 18th century, and the infamous Boston Tea Party. Finally Alan told us the best way to make a cup of tea: put freshwater to boil in the kettle, use a proper tea-pot and warm it first. To end those family arguments, the milk can go in either first or last, but leave the brew to stand for five minutes. Ruth Clarkson thanked Alan for his very informative talk.

Members had recently enjoyed a trip to “Hellens Manor” near Ledbury. Photos were on display of the flowers in Worcester Cathedral arranged by three members in May. The last walk had been cancelled due to rain, but we will continue over the summer months.

Linda Richardson was our representative at the Buckingham Palace WI Garden Party, an event taking place that very day. We are looking forward to hearing her impressions as it sounded very exciting.

The next meeting on July 7 is a talk on “Dementia Friends”, a topic in the news recently. We meet at Ashton Village Hall at 7.30pm. and new members and guests are always welcome.