THROUGHOUT the first half of the year, the regular monthly meetings at the Moat House, Coughton (second Thursday each month) have been well-attended and under the chairmanship of president Brian Hanson.

The individual speaker's subjects have been informative, entertaining and wide-ranging.

A pre-booked speaker didn't arrive on one occasion and at very short notice an outstanding after-lunch talk was given by Alan Guest, the social secretary. He spoke about his year of office as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

In this role, he met the Queen and many other members of the royal family when they visited Manchester and also had to attend to the lodging of the High Court judges when required.

The club has enjoyed several excellent outings, including lunch at the Granary, Shenstone, a visit to the Jewellery Quarter, a back-stage tour of the Birmingham Hippodrome and a visit to Dyrham Park National Trust House and Estate in Gloucestershire.

Golfing has been an important activity for some members and the Probus team has achieved success in various competitions. They have done well and there should be more to come!

The highlight of the first part of the year proved to be the president's lunch, held on a glorious summer day at the Chateau Impney, Droitwich.

The president's planning ensured 67 members and their wives enjoyed a first-class occasion.

Anyone who would like to know more about the club or who may wish to seek membership should contact a member or secretary Peter White on 547451.