“From Tights to Trousers” with our speaker Rosemary Prosser. You do wonder what’s coming and Rosemary amused us with how this title has been mis-interpreted as “about transvestites”, “from tights to trusses” amongst others. This is the story of her life as the first married police woman in the West Mercia Force. Rosemary believes in the healing power of laughter and in serious subject managed to make even the scary bits amusing. After 10 years working in agricultural jobs she decided to train as a police officer, taking up the advice her father had given when she left school. Skirts were worn at this time and women officers had a tights allowance for black tights from Russell and Dorrell. After training her first posting was to Evesham, next to CID in Malvern, further training led to being promoted to sergeant. Women at that time did not use a truncheon they relied on their black shoulder bag – take note ladies make sure you can swing your bag. In the 1970’s the tights allowance was withdrawn and the uniform black trousers introduced. By the time she left the service to have her first son Rosemary had achieved the rank of inspector. A truly entertaining and amusing talk.

Down to business:

Jane gave notices from Federation Charlton Old Schoolroom Roof Renovation Appeal:

• 1st October Charlton Harvest Shindig and Rustic Food

• 9th October Harvest Tea in Charlton Church

• 12th October an invitation to join Wyre Piddle WI for “Confessions of a Wine Taster”

• 15th October Table Top Sale Charlton

• Annual Council meeting Malvern 18th October

• 21st October “Love Letters” Charlton

• 12th November 70’s/80’s Disco

• 15th November workshop “Talking for the Terrified” contact WI House

• 17th November Shopping trip to Bristol contact secretary

• 20th November Pershore WI Centenary Service in Pershore Abbey

• 21st November workshop “Hit the Headlines” contact WI House

Chris Spencer reported on the summer outings; Diane asked for information for our page in the WI Federation book; raffle and competition winners were announced. As the competition was for a favourite treat we enjoyed, sausage rolls, lemon meringue pie and a yummy chocolately cream rum dessert as well as the usual refreshments.

Come and join our next meeting: Tuesday 11th October when Sandy Cale will talk about “Elegant Georgian Worcester”. For the competition dress in Character.

DIANE BARLOW