Wollaston E Townswomen's Guild

Chairman Julie Willetts welcomed members to the January meeting with a hearty Happy New Year. She then stated that all the Christmas activities had been successful and thanked both the committee, for their efforts in organising the Christmas party and the choir for their participation in the carol services.

The minutes of the last meeting were read and passed as a true record after which the treasurer gave a favourable summary of the finances.

Members were reminded that subs of £27.50 are due next month and that it would be helpful if these could be put in an envelope marked with the members name.

The chairman suggested that any long serving members present should come forward for recognition and appreciation.

Subsection reports followed and names were taken for lunch at Birmingham College of Food.

Trips to Highgrove and Haden Hill are to be confirmed. Jill Dunn reported that the floral art group would plan this years' programme at their next meeting, while the Amblers would not meet during January and February, but would resume their activities when hopefully better weather prevailed.

The speaker for the evening was Dave Tyler, Dudley councillor for Kingswinford North and Wall heath ward. he gave a very interesting talk on his findings regarding his family tree dating back to the 1700s. Apparently, earlier family members began life in the workhouse, hence the title of his talk, "Workhouse to Council House". The revelations discovered tracing ancestors were so interesting that I am sure many members went home thinking they should do the same.

Competition winners were Glenys Allen and Elizabeth Grove, while raffle prizes went to Brenda Adkin and Barbara Homer.

The next meeting is on February 14 at 7.30pm at St James' Church Hall, Wollaston. Non members are most welcome.