DESPITE the fact that members do not have an ordinary meeting in August, as a group they meet to have a walk and then visit a pub. to have a get together.

This year Annette Barnes and Vicky Sheldon arranged a walk starting near Odda’s Chapel and, then, finishing at the Farmer’s Arms in Turley.

Whilst some members enjoyed the summer weather walking in the fields, others took the opportunity to explore Odda’s Chapel and St Mary’s Church and realised what a glorious country we live in!

The September meeting was very well attended and lots of members had birthdays to celebrate, members realised that nine months before is Christmas, hence, lots of Christmas celebration babies.

Di Jakeman read the minutes and they were approved. Anne Scott, president, discussed all the plans for the coming season and, with trips down the River Severn, visits to Cardiff, Group Quizzes and Carol Concerts to mention a few, members have a great deal to look forward to.

Then, members were introduced to Robert Agar-Hutton, who had come from Minsterworth to talk to us about, Tai Chi for health, fitness and self-defence.

Robert is a very lively and enthusiastic speaker, who explained the beginnings of Tai Chi and how it has developed into many different styles and spread throughout the world. The talk was fascinating and funny and in no time at all members were up our feet learning how to commence, The Eighth Move One Step, for such a slow and controlled form of exercise it was very complicated but great fun.

It was explained how the moves could be used to assist in self defence and that Tai Chi was considered by some to have great value to health and welfare.

As usual the meeting ended with a cup of tea and cake where members were able to discuss their wonderful meeting.