PRESIDENT June Lloyd opened our February meeting with a warm welcome and then invited us to join in the signing of Jerusalem. Business matters were dealt with. A letter of thanks from WFWI Chairman for our donation to the Denman Appeal was read out. This had been raised by holding a Santa’s Sock competition at our Christmas Party. The one pair of socks left after that meeting has at long last been reclaimed. Green Hearts have been knitted or crocheted in support of the WI “Show the Love” campaign with members attaching a label to a woollen heart with their message. These were temporarily hung on a potted beech tree and will be transferred to the tree in the grounds of the Village Hall on Thursday. Members have taken part in Knit and Natter groups to take up the sensory band craft challenge and these groups are ongoing. The bands are to be used to help people in hospital with dementia keep calm. Amongst other events skittles, Group Quiz, Lunch Group and a visit to the Chelsea Hospital are on the programme for the coming weeks.

June introduced our speaker for the evening, Mr Charlie Homer who gave a very interesting and informative talk on St Richards Hospice in Worcester. St Richards relies totally on public donations (and grants) and is mainly reliant on the people of Worcester for these donations. He told us about the history of St Richards and the work and dedication of the staff and volunteers, many of whom have been with the Hospice since its inception in 2007/8 and then answered questions. Margaret Potter gave the vote of thanks. Margaret had made the table arrangement for the President’s Table in the shape of a heart, which in line with all the table decorations done by our ladies, was beautiful and a lovely acknowledgement of Valentine’s Day. The competition, “A Flower from your Garden”, was won by Margaret Powell.

Our next meeting in on Tuesday, March 14 at 7 p.m. when our speaker will be Adrian James with a talk entitled “Four Seasons and a Festival”. Guests and new members are welcome. For further information contact June Lloyd on 01386 830844. See also www.littletonswi.moonfruit.com

MARGARET DALTON