AT the 195th meeting, three speakers, all members of the club, gave a 10-minute talk each.

Alan Harrison spoke of his involvement as Studley Parish Council clerk.

Studley is the largest village in Warwickshire with a larger population than Alcester.

He had joined the Association of Town Clerks, the job was for 15 hours a week but worked out far more, with councillors making decisions and he having to action them.

Roger Curtis spoke on the formation and running of Alcester in Bloom.

In 1980, Alcester Chamber of Trade obtained a grant to buy some baskets for the town centre. After five years, Alcester in Bloom came into being.

Many awards had been won over the years.

Donations had been received from local industry and from many fundraising activities.

Much help came from various town youth organisations.

President Steve Jones gave an interesting insight into navy life in wartime Alexandria.

Serving aboard HMS Guardian en route from Malta, he was sent for by the captain who told him his promotion had come through.

He was given the task of setting up a building for recreational purposes, given a large staff and the finding of a suitable place.

Eventually such a place was found and after lots of decoration, it was ready for business.

Great pomp and ceremony greeted the opening day and Steve was sent for and congratulated for "Service to the Mediterranean Fleet".