THE members held their monthly meeting at Stourbridge Institute on August 19 chaired by Fred Willetts in the absence of chairman John Knight.

President Eric Southall welcomed David Chambers from the Brierley Hill Branch of Samaritans who had come along to receive a cheque, which was the proceeds of the very successful Presidents’ plant sale.

This was held over two consecutive Sundays in June due to the large amount of plants grown by the members.

Mr Chambers received a cheque for £607.10, which he thanked the Guild for and said was a very welcome amount to help with their work.

He told the meeting that it was the Brierley Hill branches 40th year, and in 2012/2013 they had added more volunteers.

He said how important it was to reach people early in order to minimise their problems. He also mentioned that they were always in need of more volunteers.

Secretary Liz Hathway mentioned the Annual Show on September 7 at St James’s Church Hall Wollaston, and asked for volunteers to help with setting up and for ladies to bake cakes for the afternoon teas.

Fred then introduced Jack Gilbert who was standing in for Margaret Anthill. Jack gave a very knowledgeable talk on his specialist subject, growing and showing a large range of chrysanthemums, accompanied by a very professional slide show.

He was obviously totally dedicated Fred thanked him for stepping in at short notice and for his presentation and the members thanked him in their usual way.

The first placed winners of the monthly competition were: 5 Cherry tomatoes , M Grice; Salad 3 kinds, J Boswell; 7 Shallots, E Southall; 1 Table arrangement, U Langley; Pot Fuchsia, J Boswell; 1 Jar Jam, U Langley; 1 Carrot Cake, A Robinson.

The next meeting will be held on the September 16 when Brian Draper will give a talk entitled ‘Water Over My Wellies’.

This new talk looks back at Brian’s life working with, and along the River Wye.

We meet on the third Monday of each month at The Stourbridge Institute at 7 for 7.30pm, when all visitors are welcome. For further details phone 01562 720219.