TOWNSWOMEN'S GUILD: At the January meeting, which was their last as members of Townswomen's Guild, an unusual visitor was present with the speaker, Mrs R Dudman - a Labrador/Retriever called Mel. She was having an enforced rest from her work as a guide dog. It was fascinating to hear about the history of the Guide Dogs Association and the dedicated people who volunteer to be puppy-walkers, looking after the puppies until they are old enough to begin their training. Mrs Beale gave the vote of thanks.

Mrs Lockhart welcomed five visitors and wished everyone a very happy 2004. Farewells and good wishes were extended to Mrs Richardson, who is leaving Pershore to live in warmer climes.

The chairman explained that under the new name of Pershore Ladies' Guild, as there had been no nominations for election to the committee, the present committee was willing to remain in office for a further year.

She announced that for the visit to Huntingdon Hall on January 30 to see Love Letters, the coach will leave Broad Street at 7pm and Paddock Close at 7.10pm.

Mrs Loach reported that she could recommend the book The Life of Pi by Yann Martel, which had been voted as a good read by the Literary Appreciation Group.

The skittles group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am and would welcome new members.

Mrs J Stratford from the Townswomen's Guild Headquarters talked to members about matters which have arisen in the Guild movement during the past two or three years and some discussion followed on issues raised by members.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 3, in Wulstan Hall at 2pm and will be a Christening party. There will be a raffle, a quiz, a poetry reading by the Literary Appreciation Group and a singsong.

Visitors and new members are welcome.

RBL WOMEN'S SECTION: Chairman Wendy Griffiths welcomed members and wished them a happy new year when she opened the first meeting of 2004.

Letters and cards were read thanking the branch for Christmas gifts given to older members who are unable to attend meetings.

The secretary and treasurer gave their reports and names were taken for the national conference taking place at Blackpool on April 21-22. Members were treated to a talk by Ann Garrood about her recent visit to Buckingham Palace to receive her MBE from the Queen. She was thanked by Ray Green. Then followed the raffle and monthly draw.

The meeting closed at 9.30pm. Old and new members will be welcome at the next meeting on February 3 when Marion Freeman will talk about Bygone Pershore.