Ladies of the Westbury TG kicked off the spring/ summer programme on a musical note courtesy of Naomi Bignell, who entertained us with a selection of well known songs to accompanied music.
With feet tapping and swaying to the music we needed no persuasion to join in with the words.
We came to the May meeting expecting to hear about life in the East End of London, but instead we learned ‘How to grow old disgracefully!’ Our grateful thanks were extended to Mrs. Mary Teed who stepped in at the last minute as our guest speaker had been taken ill.
Mary spoke with humility, compassion and great humour about the perks and pitfalls of growing old. Recalling disadvantages of outside toilets and a tin bath in front of the fire with the same bath water used for all family members. No en suite in those days! No fridges, television, but a wind up gramophone and family unity.
Mary finished her talk with a few humorous verses about becoming older. Acceptance being the key word. Mary was thanked for a most amusing and entertaining talk.
The craft group are still enjoying their meetings, with as much chat as craft! Mary Jenkins was thanked for organizing the recent theatre trip to see HMS. Pinafore. All who went agreed it had been an enjoyable evening with an excellent performance.
After the coffee break, we discussed the mandate to be presented at the national AGM in Glasgow. TG urges HM Government to amend existing legislation, with reference to advertising to gamble in the Gambling Act 2005 so as to ban public advertising that encourages the practice of gambling, in the same way that advertising the use of tobacco is banned. After a debate on the subject it was felt that gambling advertisements on television should only be screened after 10.00pm.
The book club reported they will be meeting on 16th June, 2.00pm at Janet Wakefield’s home. Likewise the following day, the scrabble group will be in action at Chris Yates home, 2.00pm. The walking group will be dusting off their boots ready to stroll the local footpaths and pub lunch on Tuesday 28th July.
During the evening the bring and buy stall was doing a brisk trade with everything from garden produce to clothing, toys and chinaware on offer, raising almost £25. The evening ended as usual with Edith’s raffle with a selection of interesting prizes on offer.
Any ladies wishing to give our group a try, come along and you will receive a warm welcome (and cup of coffee) We meet on the 4th Thursday of each month, 7.00pm at Grassacres Hall.
Wendy Bartlett
