The president welcomed visitor Joan, then thanked Margaret Dams for the exquisite Ikebana flower arrangement.

Members were told that long-standing member Sheila Gordon has now moved to Brook Close, where she would welcome any WI visitors.

The president proudly announced that the WI has now leaped into the 21st century – and has a website, courtesy of Jan and Chris. Those members who have internet access were asked to provide their addresses to facilitate communication. The president thanked Jan and Chris for their hard work in creating the website, and announced its first two items; An Ambling group, to take short walks in the area. The first will be on November 19 and will end at the Old House at Home for lunch.

A lunch club to meet once a month, with the first being at the Old House again, starting at 12 on December 2.

The treasurer announced that we are still in profit, and hopes that the December Christmas pantomime will boost them.

The book club is still flourishing.

Members have read a broad range of books.

There was a reminder of the talk to be given in November to discuss campaigns to be supported by the WI nationally. Members were also asked to consider whether they want to support both campaigns run by the ACWW. Both will be discussed at future meetings.

Pat Taylor gave a succinct report of the Annual Council Meeting of the Worcestershire Federation. Of particular interest it was noted that, to commemorate 100 years of the WI, an Olympic style baton will travel through the UK, starting in Anglesey where the first ever WI was created. It is due in Worcester in September 2014.

The speaker was Garth Lowe who gave an interesting talk on Offshore Islands of Britain, accompanied by stunning photos of islands with their birds, flora and fauna.