THE Bromsgrove and Redditch branch met for the first meeting of the year to discuss past happenings and future plans.

The speaker was Ann Russell, a member from Coventry, who belongs to the National Soroptimist Benevolent Fund Committee.

This charity has been active since 1942 and aims to help members who are in financial difficulties due to ill health or misfortune.

Although members are subscribed through a levy, more donations are always welcome for this totally confidential and worthwhile charity.

Vice-president Jo Smith gave a comprehensive report on Programme Action, summarising the fund-raising and support given worldwide for HIV/AIDS-stricken workers and children of the Third World.

Efforts on behalf of the African Mashambanzu project by printing and selling Christmas cards has been very successful.

Nationally, Soroptimists also support the campaign against landmines.

Reports were given on the problems created by methane producing disposable nappies, 89 million of which are thrown away with normal household rubbish every year.

Also, the Sturman report which highlights the problems of chemical/drug additions to drink leading to rape and drug dependency.

Another dangerous problem is the importation of sweet-flavoured chewing tobacco, attractively wrapped and sold to children, which is not only addictive but a cause of oral cancer.

There was also discussions on future social and fund-raising plans which will occur both locally and in the Midland Arden region.