THE 171st meeting of the Alcester & district club took place at the Swan Hotel on September 26 and the president gave best wishes to members Jim Barton and Eric Bower.

He also expressed sorrow at the loss of past president and secretary Denis Agg and invited Cyril Hallam to give an appreciation. This was followed by a minute's silence.

The social secretary gave notice of a skittles night for Friday, November 16, and distributed details.

Grace was given by Reg Harris.

After the meal and Loyal Toast, the president introduced speaker David Curtis of the Swan Orchestra from Stratford.

Mr Curtis explained he was artistic director and conductor of the orchestra and how this section of the arts was meant to enrich lives.

The idea of orchestras had begun 250 years ago and in those days, they consisted of 12 players. This had now evolved to up to 50 today.

At present, there are more than 70 orchestras in the country.

Mr Curtis then gave details of the enormously complicated task of preparing for a concert, including the initial inquiry, agreement on booking, deciding the music, checking the score, rehearsing, checking publicity and arranging refreshments.

He was thanked by Harry Hayton. The next meeting takes place on Wednesday, October 24.