Lickey WI celebrated its 41st birthday at the parish hall. A coach outing in June to Cirencester and Buscot Park had been much enjoyed and a trip to Chester was announced for October. A report was read of the recent national annual general meeting of WIs, held at the Royal Albert Hall, at which prominent speakers included the author Bill Bryson and the actress and campaigner Jane Fonda.

A splendid array of sweet and savoury dishes was served, all provided by members for the birthday feast. President Sue Mayne thanked everyone for their contributions, which made the evening so enjoyable.

The competition for a buttonhole was fully supported with Maureen Permain being judged the worthy winner. At the next meeting, to be held at the parish hall next Tuesday, Robin Skerrat will tell the story of clocks. The competition will be for an unusual timepiece.