MALVERN Speakers' latest get-together could have been a difficult meeting, with three of the four main speeches being icebreakers.

These first-time public talks by debut speakers can often be tense and nervous occasions. In the event, however, it was anything but, with well-crafted and delivered speeches from the newcomers that would have done justice to far more experienced members.

Winner of the night's Best Speech vote was David Evans, who described his journey from abject terror and panic attacks when asked to speak in public. After years of expert (and often costly) advice and therapy, it had been the friendly and supportive atmosphere of the local Toastmasters' club which had finally (and impressively) solved his problem, as all present could confirm.

A remarkably relaxed and humorous self-introduction by Andrew Dixon might well have been the winner on another night, whilst after a more tentative start, growing confidence as she spoke shone through Jane Anson's interesting life story.

The one seasoned speaker on the programme, Jim Ballard gave a predictably polished performance, with ingenious use of his juggling skills as visual aids to his speech. Balls, clubs and even knives – to the apprehension of those sitting near the front! - featured in this skilful and unusual presentation.

The vote for best unprepared Table Topic went to Christian Saguyan for a moving spontaneous tribute to Martin Luther King, subject of the movie Selma. This was his second Topic win in only three meetings since he first attended the club.

The club's next meeting will take place at the Great Malvern Hotel at 7.15pm on Tuesday, February 24. Further ahead, the Quiz Night and Supper on March 14 at the Mount Pleasant Hotel will be open to non-members, with BBC Hereford & Worcester's Dave Bradley presiding. Details from Steve Birch on 07831 846997 or visit www.malvernspeakers.co.uk.

COLIN JACKSON