January’s meeting saw one new member join.

News of forthcoming visits and classes was given and there is something for eve - ryone, whether one is energetic, cerebral, creative, musical, public-spirited or sim - ply prepared to have a good time trying new things.

The Sunday lunch outing will now be at the Wagon Wheel at Grimley on February 16.

Worcestershire Federation has been asked by the cathedral to provide flowers in Worcester Cathedral in May, and Astley member Di Crump, who won first prize at the County Competition for her flower arrangement, has been asked to undertake the task.

Robert Barber gave an enlightening talk and slide show on the history of sugar, in which he outlined the development of the sugar trade from its discovery 3,000 years ago by the Polynesians, right up to the building and operation of the sugar beet factory in Kidderminster.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 5, at Astley and Dunley village hall at 7.30pm, when Mr and Mrs Betts will be giving a talk entitled The Witley Court Story. New members are always welcome