Dudley South Ladies Luncheon

Chairman Ann Rogers welcomed members to enjoy a three-course lunch at The Lodge, Wellington Road, Dudley. Although the date was Friday the 13th there were no mishaps on a glorious sunny afternoon.

The speaker was Dr Jonathan White, Medical Advisor to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Dr White had been a GP in Wolverhampton for over 30 years and although now retired he continues on a voluntary basis to advise young musicians and students on how to prevent injuries, to enable them to practise for many years. They have different needs than other professions and most people do not realise it is tough to keep a job and tough to do. Between 40% and 70% develop injuries which force them to retire early – Julian Lloyd Webber being an example. He described the different injuries caused by different instruments and hearing loss that can happen to those both playing and sitting in front of loud instruments. Dr White was an excellent speaker telling us about the side of music most of us knew nothing about.

Members were reminded that there would be no luncheon in August but instead were invited to a coffee morning at the chairman’s home on August 3 10.30-2.30pm. This was also attended by MP Mike Wood and his assistant Alex; councillors Patrick Harley and Peter Miller and Dudley South Division secretary Martin Berrington. The house was bursting at the seams but thanks to beautiful weather some sat in the garden to enjoy their strawberry scones and much needed funds were raised at the bring and buy table and raffle to help pay for speakers at the monthly luncheons. MP Mike Wood spoke to everyone and reassured them everything possible was being done to safeguard our future. He particularly thanked chairman Ann for her generosity and hard work in holding such an enjoyable event.

The next luncheon will be on September 14 at The Lodge, Wellington Road, Dudley when Maureen Wilde will be flower arranging and October 12 Anthony Collis will talk about “The Swinging Ladies”. Mary Bodfish will inform us You Can’t Abdicate and Eat it on November 9 and Marlene Watson will entertain us with Black Country Humour at our Christmas Luncheon to complete the year on December 14. Visitors are most welcome and can attend three times before deciding to join. For more information ring the secretary on 01902 372984 or email maryjones30@sky.com