WE began the new year meeting with congratulations to the handicraft section who had gained two firsts and a second at the craft exhibition at Malvern.

The cup for the most points was again awarded to them. The Christmas collection was for the County Air Ambulance service.

Mrs J Sailsbury was one of the readers at the combined Guilds Carol Service which was well attended.

The groups are continuing with walks on alternate Tuesday, and the handicrafts and line dancing which meet monthly.

Ray Sturdy entertained us with a most interesting talk on Worcester 100 years ago.

During the evening we learned many things and saw some historical photographs.

The fountain in Cripplegate Park had originally been made for the Great Exhibition and was the centrepiece of the old Market Hall.

The modern' steam fire engine would have taken some time for the engine to be ready and, even then, only if the house had an insurance plaque would the firemen fight the flames.

There were two prisons. The main one was in Castle Street where the city's hangings took place, and a smaller one in Friar Street.

Transport locally was originally by horse omnibus. Later trams and the trains were used for longer distances.

The river was used commercially for the transport of coal, salt, small machinery and cattle, and Dolday was the area where the river workers lived.

A hundred years ago, as in previous times, Worcester was known throughout the world for Fownes and Dents gloves. The Worcester Porcelain Factory sent goods to many of the European royal families and also to America and the Commonwealth.

There was also heavy machinery manufactured for the railways, mines and smaller firms such as the Metal Box. Kays the catalogue firm was also becoming well known.

Thomas Cook began his first package tours and were advertised at the railway stations. The roads around Worcester were improved to accommodate the cars which were becoming cheaper, although ordinary people were still relying on horse-drawn vehicles and bicycles.

It was amazing to realise that although great changes had taken place, many streets, buildings and even shops were still the same.

For example, a photograph of Pratleys, in The Shambles, taken a century ago, is almost replicated in one taken this year, and Elts - which is next door - was a shoe shop even then.

The whole evening was one of remembering and reminiscing.

A collection was made in aid of the mental health charity Mencap, for whom the talk was given.

The next St John's Townswomen's Guild meeting will be on Thursday, February 15, at 7.30pm in Bromyard Road Methodist Church hall when a representative of the County Air Ambulance service will give a talk. Visitors are most welcome.

BARBARA SPODE