Members were welcomed to the November meeting by Margaret Tew, who was taking the chair in the absence of Helen Greenway.

Up-to-date reports were given by the secretary and the treasurer.

Headquarters was hoping to hold a national competition of skittles if there was sufficient interest, and guilds were invited to take part.

At the Federation AGM in April 2015, there will be a display of arts and crafts, and members are invited to submit articles that have not been displayed before.

The visit to the Rose Theatre is on December 3 and the guild Christmas lunch is being held at Vesuvio’s on December 8.

Joyce Knotts drew members’ attention to various articles in the latest edition of the Townswoman.

The rambling section have enjoyed their weekly walks, and recently walked along the canal starting from Ashwood, around Barnett Hill area, despite being impeded by road works, and also around Kinver.

The speaker for the evening was Bernard Mills who gave a fascinating, illustrated talk on Kays of Worcester.

The business began as jewellery and watch-making in a small shop by a Mr Skarratt, but was later bought by his one-time assistant, Mr Kay.

An astute business man, he eventually turned it into the famous catalogue company, employing thousands.

Raffle prizes were won by Edna Yeadon and Christina Edwards.

The next meeting to be held at Norton Community Centre is on February 23, when we will hear a talk entitled “Beyond the Stars - the role of the extras.

A warm welcome is always extended to visitors and new members.