THE meeting opened with a report on the National AGM by Christine Linley, Group Co-Ordinator.

Christine and a lively octogenarian from Guarlford WI stayed the night at the Ibis Hotel, Leeds.

They visited the Marks and Spencer museum. Next day they went to the Arena.

The AGM started with 6,000 women singing Jerusalem. The National Chairman stated that 23,000 new members joined each year.

The Treasurer said that they were doing very well financially.

The Resolution regarding blood donation was carried 5,981 in favour 133 against.

There were some very moving statements from the floor from people who had transplants.

Sir Andrew Motion, former Poet Laureate, was the guest speaker. He spoke of poetry but also of rural life as he is Chairman of the Council for the Protection of Rural England.

After lunch Dr George McGavin BBC presenter talked about making wildlife films.

He was followed by Bill Turnbull, BBC Breakfast presenter, who talked about ballroom dancing, broadcasting and bees.

Christine Linley was presented with a bouquet for her excellent report.

The President announced that a craft group was to be formed, also that a raffle was being held for Malvern Group funds.

The fundraising lunch for the leaking church roof was to be on September 4.

The plans for the WI Centenary Baton were confirmed for September 10 at Belle Vue Terrace.

She then introduced Karen Von Haff, the speaker.

The meeting ended with tea and cakes.