The Lenches W.I.

Our President welcomed us to the November meeting. Apologies & birthdays were read out and reminders were given of events happening in the County, the group and at home.

Our speaker this month was Frances Benton talking on the subject of ‘Pearls’. She engaged us in a humorous and enthusiastic talk.

Her passion for pearls began as a child, the look and the feel of them made her want to explore the culture surrounding the pearl. She worked with an 18th century orchestra which involved lots of travelling; and in these countries she learnt about different pearls. Frances visited China and saw the vast diversity of pearls. On her second visit she learnt to string them.

We learnt that there are three types, Faux, Natural and Cultured pearls. They absorb the heat of the body so that you can’t feel their weight. Frances uses silk to string them and all her pearls are made for a charity that she supports. We were able to feel the different pearls and saw many on offer at the end of the evening. It was certainly a lively & informative evening with many of us leaving with pearls for Xmas presents or as a present to ourselves.

Our December meeting will be held at the Star Inn at Ashton Under Hill having a Christmas lunch.