THE November meeting was attended by 32 members. We were pleased to report on two recent successes and presentations were made by our president Marjy. Ashton WI had won the Skittles Trophy for the Vale, by beating Pebworth and Hampton WIs in the Final. Doreen Cope received the Cup on behalf of the team which had consisted of various members. At the Malvern ACM we had been awarded the shield in the competition. Alex Dodge won a first for her Apricot and Apple Jam and Doreen Parsons was awarded the silver bowl for her floral arrangement of autumn fruit and foliage. Marjy’s embroidered cloth was third with high marks. We were grateful to all who made an entry in the various craft and baking classes. This year the talks had been very good, including an inspirational one from female jet fighter pilot Mandy Higson. After the evening’s business, our talk was given by Richard Kendrick on his career as a film caterer, and was much enjoyed by all present. We learned that from small beginnings with a burger van, catering as a favour for a friend, Richard had progressed to providing the catering for massive events in the entertainment world, including film units, outside broadcasts such as Sky Sports, “Live Aid” and so on. The slide presentation was very entertaining; Richard showed us the marvellous luxury of the super kitchens and dining areas which are transported all over the country and set up in a short time. The idea of catering full cooked breakfast for up to a thousand people at a sporting event, and continuing to provide quality meals all day and into the night hours for film crews was amazing. The key to everything was good organisation, and experience of course. Judy Templeton gave the vote of thanks to Richard.

The evening ended with a Lucky Dip “Santa’s Socks” instead of the raffle. We raised £ 37.00 for the charity ACWW. The Christmas meal is on Tuesday, December 1 and our regular nights resume on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 when the talk will be “Lost the Plot” with Fiona Warin. Meetings begin at 7.30pm in Ashton Village Hall and new members are always welcome.

JUDITH HUNTER