WITH the start of the New Year, the first meeting of Staunton & District Over-60s Club was well attended with new club cards issued and subs paid. The club always has a splendid programme planned throughout the year with really good coach trips as soon as the better weather arrives. On January 26, 30 members will be going to Leyhill Open Prison to their pantomime Rumpelstiltskin. On January 21, they will be holding their anniversary party. Club leader Nanette Bevan says if any new members wish to join, do go along on that day when they will be made very welcome and if you are lonely you will soon make new friends. The annual subscription, which is very modest, has been held at the same as last year and the club aim to give value for money. For anyone who needs transport there is the coach or Dial A Ride from Newent subsidised transport, so do give Mrs Bevan a ring on 01452 840640.

Staunton & District Mowers & Growers Gardening Group will be holding their meeting on Wednesday, January 23, at 8pm in Johnstone Close lounge. The speaker will be Duncan Coombs of Pershore College and his talk will be The Shaded Garden.

The 32nd Spring Show of Staunton & District WI will be held in Corse & Staunton Village Hall on Saturday, March 16. The show, which is open to all, has some 69 classes which include handicrafts, bulbs, floral art, cookery, preserves, home made country wines and pot plants and there is also a children's section. The handicrafts section includes knitting, sewing, tapestry and embroidery, photography, painting and handcrafted items in wood, metal and pottery. Last year's winner of the best in show was a male entrant and it is hoped more men will enter in future.

The show, which continues in its popularity is always of a high standard and shows the mass of skills and talent in the area. Schedules are available from the show secretary by ringing 01452 840343.