Born of a publican, a millwright and funeral director, and being brought up at The Dhu Stone Inn, Alf Jenkins reminisced at length about wartime on “the Clee Hills”, showing many artefacts from his youth, such as gas masks for adults and babies, maps and photos.

For those unemployed through illness, or for those who could not afford to pay for a funeral, the local community and workmates passed round a collection box.

Hence the expression: “on the box”.

If you are fascinated by such speakers or interested in supporting the work of Rotary International, why not visit kidderminsterrotary.

moonfruit.co.uk ; and approach the secretary to join us at our regular meetings on Tuesday lunchtimes at Wharton Park Golf & Country Club.