THE chairman, Gill Tibbetts welcomed members and visitors to the May meeting.

The country fayre treasure hunt hamper was won by Malcolm Grant. Members were thanked for their generous donations and help in manning our stall.

Our speaker was Kate Round from the Broadfield house glass museum.

Her presentation covered the origins of the glass trade and the history of some of the glass makers who were based in and around Stourbridge.

Glass making has changed little over the centuries, although the temperature of the furnaces are now thermostatically controlled rather than being judged by the colour of the bricks around the furnace.

We were shown pictures illustrating the various ways of decorating glass and the tools used to achieve these effects.

We were pleased to hear that the skills of the glass trade are continuing, resident artists and designer makers are based at the museum and at Red house glass cone.

Many of the buildings connected with the industry are still in use, though mostly not involved with the glass trade.

David Bills thanked Kate for her interesting talk which should encourage member's visit the museum and Red House Glass Cone.

All tickets have been sold for our visit on June 19, to Stourton Castle for a conducted tour with the owners Mr and Mrs Grove.

Members are to meet at Edgcliff turning circle at 7pm to leave promptly at 7.15pm.

The July 15, meeting will be a visit to Belbroughton for a guided walk around the Village with Mrs Madge Jones, meet at Edgcliff turning circle at 7pm.

New members and visitors are always welcome, for more information about the society please contact David Tibbetts on 01384 872066.