A MEETING of the Hot Peppers was held on Wednesday, July 27.

Gemma Dewson opened by welcoming members and friends in a full room. A lot has happened during the last month.

On July 2, members visited Stratford upon Avon for a very interesting day. We had a guided tour around the theatre, enjoyed a picnic lunch and then watched Midsummer Night's Dream.

On July 6, we turned what was a grotty looking caravan into a sparkling good investment. This will be used as storage and also for the music festivals.

July 15,16 and 17 was the Blues festival for which we had been busy baking cakes and cookies to feed the many visitors to our marquee. A sell out and a very enjoyable festival as the weather was perfect.

On July 25, four members enjoyed a skittles evening which had been organized by the Severn Group. Jane Foley was successful and was placed in the play-off. Gemma drew attention to the Notice board and also to the favourite recipe book and also reminded members that cakes were needed for the Sunshine Festival over the August Bank holiday on Fish Meadow. Nolene reported a healthy balance due to the success of the Blues Festival. Britain in Bloom will be judged on August 2 and volunteers were asked to help in promoting Hot Peppers.

Gemma then introduced Janet Williams who was to talk on Bee Keeping. Janet gave us an insight into how 20 years ago, she was fascinated by these creatures and is determined to keep them in existence more than their bi-products. She had brought many photos and samples with her and her talk was very interesting indeed. Janet answered many questions whilst everyone enjoyed a cuppa and slice of cake.

As August is holiday month and members are busy with the Sunshine Festival, we have no meeting. The next meeting will be September 28 and will be an essential talk by First Responders, learning CPR and basic Life-saving skills (you never know what lies around the corner). It will be in the Sports Pavilion at 7.30pm.

VALERIE BOWN