The president welcomed everyone and thanked members for their help at the Christmas meeting which had been a great success. A warm welcome was extended to our visitors Lynn and Jill and speakers Jayne and Charlie.

Members were reminded that those wishing to attend the ‘Lunch with Michael Portillo’ April 27 would need to confirm their booking and pay next month.

Volunteers were required for the Three Counties Show in June. The Lucy Hingley Lecture will take place in July and Worcestershire Federation have a short holiday planned visiting Harrogate in September. As you can see plenty of dates for your diaries. Blakedown WI Lunch Club will meet next on February 24 at Hodge Hill Garden Centre, The Amblers will resume their walks shortly; when the weather is better and the paths less muddy.

The speakers for the evening, Charlie and Jayne from Willows Hedgehog Rescue. Members had provided a hedgehog display using a variety of materials, painting, knitting, salt dough, paper and a number of hedgehog cakes. Committee members rounded off the evening with animal poems and short stories.

Next month is‘Strictly Dancing’ and everyone is required to bring a cocktail glass.