A meeting of the Hot Peppers was held on Wednesday 28th.September in the Sports Pavilion.. Gemma Dewson, our President, opened the meeting by welcoming members and visitors following August, when we held no meeting. She introduced Tim, Steve and Sam who were to be speaking on their subject later on in the evening. Gemma reported the very successful month when members had been busy baking for the Sunshine Festival over the Bank holiday. Wow, what an enjoyable time we all had. The weather was very co-operative and the many bands were great. We had a busy time with cakes, teas and coffees and everything went clockwork, a bonus was that it was dry to erect and dismantle the marquee. Thankyou to our men folk who added both strength and height to these operations. Names were added to the cake rota for the meetings, Cathy Badham asked for contributions towards the Centenary book, Shirley asked for donations of raffle prizes. Cathy and Shirley are in the process of finalising the 2017 programme, which looks very interesting. It was agreed to send a donation of £500 to the 'Save Denman' fund. Fiona Edlington was the lucky recipient of our annual bursary to Denman, she decided to do a 2 day course on Stone Carvng and brought along her finished articles. Gemma was anxious to get the remaining knitted squares made into blankets as the weather is getting cooler.

Now to our main topic of the evening, Tim, Steve and Sam representing the Hereford and Worcester First Responders. They showed us a video and explained the necessity for Defibulators to be easily accessible as the critical time window is so short. A short interval was had when refreshments of the usual quality cakes provided by Sandra and Val Simcock were devoured. Demonstrations were given and members tried their hand at resuscitation. This made members realise the importance of purchasing a Defibulator. Everyone agreed and Gemma is busy sorting one out and finding a suitable position in or around Upton which would benefit anyone in time of need. They were thanked for stressing the importance of having the knowledge to deal with these situations.

The next meeting will be on 26th.October and will be given by Stan Keyworth - Boom to Bust, which will prove that perseverance pays. Do come and join us.

VALERIE BOWN