THE President, Janet Clemas, welcomed members, including a new lady, to the November meeting. There were invitations to other WI’s Christmas parties, but very little other business. Several ladies had enjoyed a recent trip to the Museum of Carpets at Kidderminster, where they were able to watch a loom in action.

Our speaker was Chrissy Ching, who told us about her own entry into horticulture before embarking on an account of the work Joseph Paxton, gardener and architect. In the early 19th century he lived near Woburn Abbey, where at the age of 13 he started working for the Duke of Bedford. Later he became head gardener for the Duke of Devonshire, firstly at his Chiswick House and later at Chatsworth. As an architect he designed the London Embankment and a modern drainage system for the capital. The project for which he is best remembered is the Crystal Palace, built to house the Great Exhibition of 1851. Janet thanked Chrissy on behalf of us all.

The competition for a favourite flower, with reasons, was Cath Doig, with her love of roses.

In December, on Tuesday 9, we will be holding our Christmas party meeting.

Anyone wishing to know more about our activities please contact the secretary on 01684 592408.

JANET CLEMAS