THE first meeting of the new year was held at the village hall on February 17. Chairman Pam Hayes welcomed members and several visitors, including Val Cousins and her husband from Witchford. Mrs Cousins was there on behalf of the Milton Children s Hospice

THE first meeting of the new year was held at the village hall on February 17. Chairman Pam Hayes welcomed members and several visitors, including Val Cousins and her husband from Witchford. Mrs Cousins was there on behalf of the Milton Children's Hospice, and received a cheque for £500 from Mrs Hayes.

This money had been raised by the club during the year. Mrs Cousins thanked the club and said that fund-raising was vital for the hospice to continue with the wonderful work that is done, not only for sick children, but also for the support given to families of these children.

The evening continued with a demonstration by Lesley Beeton, from Coates, entitled 'What's cooking'. Lesley, a farmer's wife, was a qualified florist with a great sense of humour. Her lovely arrangements illustrated her talents as a demonstrator and gave the audience an amusing insight into her busy life with flowers. A vote of thanks was given by Jean Banks. The next meeting on March 16 will start with the general meeting and be followed by a demonstration called 'Wish you were here' by Wendy Munnion from Maldon.

INFO: All welcome. Contact 01353 860102 or 01353 863421.