MEMBERS at the last meeting before Christmas were treated to coffee and mince pies.
A further delight was an excellent speaker, Richard Churchley, with his lecture Rural Industries before the Railways (Redditch and Alcester Area). Mr Churchley has written an MA thesis on the history of Sambourne (Warwickshire) and is currently studying for a PhD into aspects of the history of the Alcester and Redditch area.
As an ex-teacher, he has the expertise to present his vast knowledge in an entertaining manner. One member remarked afterwards: "I could listen to him all night".
The local needle industry appears to have begun circa 1630 when William Lea was reprimanded by the London Guild of Needlemakers for using a grindstone.
He then appears in Studley, and his son and five apprentices seem to have spread the art.
The society holds meetings during the winter and outings in summer. Newcomers are welcome, for more details, call 541317.
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