A NUMBER of cars set off for Abergavenny, Monmouthshire on a lovely afternoon: it was Hartpury, Corse and Staunton Mothers Union summer trip, but with a purpose. Their destination was a small workshop deep in the country looking across the valley to spectacular views of the Welsh mountains.

They were given a warm welcome by the owners of the workshop, where silk is woven, and vestments and banners made.

Indeed, banners were the reason for the visit. The members of the Mothers Union heard about the workshop's history, saw examples of the material, and heard how they were woven on the loom, which is very old.

They also heard about the dyeing process, the making and design, and saw several beautiful finished vestments. It was a very surprising and enlightening experience. Photographs of many banners the workshop had made for Mothers Unions all over the country were seen, and this was followed by a lovely cream tea.

Since the visit the branch has met and the first steps have been taken regarding a banner for the branch.

This year the June special meeting will be held at the home of a member by kind invitation. Members will be attending the Mothers Union Diocesan Festival in Gloucester Cathedral on Wednesday June 20.

If there are no further outbreaks of foot and mouth disease locally it is hoped that services will have re-started at Hartpury Parish Church. During the epidemic Hartpury church services have been held in Corse Church.

The next Saturday lunch to be held at Hartpury Methodist Chapel will be this Saturday, June 2, from noon to 2pm. There will also be a produce stall.