THERE was a buzz of excitement as members gathered for the Annual Speech Contest.

This is the first round of a competition for all members of speakers clubs nationwide to secure the title of National Speech Winner.

Last year the Midlands area produced the winning competitor, John Kemp, from the Yardley club.

So Redditch members were keen to undertake the challenge and hopefully progress to the next round in February 2006.

A large variety of subjects were covered in the speeches delivered, giving the judges a lot to consider in their deliberations. Chief judge Peter Smith from the Stratford and South Warwickshire club with his two fellow judges had a well-defined judging criteria which enables the judging procedure to be fair to all contestants.

The chairman for the evening settled members swiftly and then an icebreaker session was ably led by Abigail to ensure members had a chance to speak for a few minutes before the start of the competition.

After all the contestants had presented their speeches, the judges retired to consider their choice of winner and runner-up. Peter Smith was pleased to announce that Rhoda Lingard had been judged the best speaker and would represent the club at the next round, and Hazel Bradley was runner-up.

As the clock moved close to 11pm the chairman brought this very full but enjoyable evening to an end. Members were invited to bring their "party pieces" to perform - family and friends were included in his invitation.

If you are interested in learning how to speak in public with confidence, come along to take a look at us - we meet alternative Tuesdays at 7.30pm for 7.45pm at the Quality Hotel, Redditch. For more details, visit www.redditchspeakersclub.co.uk or call Jim Fitzpatrick on 63596.