This was our first meeting in the New Year, very well attended with 22 ladies present. Our Speaker was the Rev Peter Norton from the Rushden High Street Church. His message was much enjoyed by everyone. It has been one year since I took over as the Leader. I thanked the ladies for their help and support. Pat led us in prayer, the Reverend read from the Bible and I read a piece about true friends. Mrs Maidwell our pianist was ill, so with the help of the Reverend we sang the hymn very well. Sheila gave the vote of thanks, and we all enjoyed a nice cup of tea and biscuits at the close of the meeting, made by Pat Bugby. B. Ellis.

February 18^th 1993

Today we had our Annual Dinner, which was enjoyed by 24 ladies. Afterwards we had our monthly meeting. Our speaker was Mrs Joy Case who talked about the History of a Magistrate (which she is one herself). Our pianist was Mrs Muriel Maidwell whom we are most grateful to. Prayers were said by Pat Bugby and the thanks was given by Mrs Sheila Rodwell, then it was time for a lovely cup of tea. Mrs Pat Bugby’s Coffee and Gateaux Evening, at her home, raised £96 for Newton Bromswold Church (a very good effort). B. Ellis.

March 18^th 1993

25 ladies attended our meeting today, our speaker was Mrs Dorothy Wood who showed us cake icing and decorating. She made some lovely flowers, which the ladies found very interesting. We were sorry to hear Mrs Key was poorly, and hoped she would soon be feeling better, to join us in fellowship again. A Competition for decorating an Easter Bonnet was won by Sheila Rodwell and second was Bessie Lines. The raffle was arranged by Marian Sanders and there was some lovely prizes including a cake decoration given and made by Mrs Dorothy Wood. Pat Bugby led the prayers, Mrs Muriel Maidwell was the pianist. The meeting ended with a lovely cup of tea made by the ladies and served with assorted biscuits. B. Ellis.

April 15^th 1993

Being Easter Week there was not so many ladies present at our meeting, but we had a lovely afternoon. Mr Max Robinson was our speaker from Hinwick Home, he is the manager of the Horticulture there, teaching students the various things connected with gardening, it is a wonderful job what he does there and is so devoted to his work. Arrangements have been made for an outing to Leamington Spa on June the 24^th, with tea at the Radford Road Church, so we are hoping for a lovely day. 2 of the ladies made a lovely cup of tea and served it with biscuits at the end of the meeting. B. Ellis.

May 20^th 1993

22 ladies attended out Meeting today. Mrs Rosemary Hallworth came along and arranged some lovely flower arrangements. The ladies really enjoyed it, chatting to her as she was busy working. Sheila gave out the birthday cards, Pat led the prayers and Marian the raffle, of which the flower arrangements were given as some of the prizes. The Meeting ended with tea and biscuits being served by the ladies. A lovely afternoon enjoyed by everyone. B. Ellis.

June 17^th 1993

A Coffee Evening was held at the home of Mrs Pat Bugby on June 4^th at which £70 was raised for Newton Bromswold Church. Today was a lovely afternoon after so much bad weather, 27 ladies attended the Meeting, when the speaker was Mrs B. Palfrey from Wellingborough. It was a lovely meeting, my relation from South Africa was here on holiday, so it was lovely for her to be able to join in with us in fellowship and friendship. After the meeting followed our Annual Strawberry Tea which was enjoyed by everyone. I thank the ladies for their help to make it such a success, especially Sheila and Nobby for getting the strawberries in such terrible wet weather. Thankyou. B. Ellis.

June 24^th 1993

Having just arrived back from a lovely Coach Outing to Leamington Spa it was a lovely sunny day enjoyed by 40 ladies and gentlemen we visited Jephson Gardens which were beautiful and some people did a little shopping, after which we all sat down to a ham salad tea, brown bread & white bread and butter, followed by fruit flan and as much tea as one could drink, arriving home about 6.45pm, a lovely day. The tea was served by ladies of the Radford Road Church, Leamington Spa. B. Ellis.

July 15^th 1993

Our meeting had few less ladies attending today as it is the holiday time, but we still had a lovely time. Mrs Jenny Miller was our speaker, she spoke about her talent which is embroidery and brought various pieces to show us, birthday cards were given out, and we sang Happy Birthday to Pat Bugby who’s birthday was today. Muriel Maidwell was the pianist, Pat led the prayers and Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. I gave out that £1000 had been raised at the Village Fete for Newton Bromswold Church. It was a lovely summers day. Sheila had a sale table for the Church Funds which raised £….. B.Ellis.

August 19^th 1993

Our Speaker sat our meeting today was Mrs Myrtle Beaumont, who spoke about her work as a STN on the ocean going liners calling at various countries. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianinst, Pat Bugby led the prayers and Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. We were very sorry to hear Mrs Ruby Masters was very poorly, I sent a card with our best wishes from everyone at the meeting, hoping it won’t be long before she will be able to join in fellowship with us again. Ten and biscuits were served by some of the ladies. B. Ellis.

September 16^th 1993

Today was a special meeting, it was our 10^th anniversary. Our Speaker was Mrs Linnett Smith (the Rector’s wife from St Marys). She spoke lovely about the word ‘friendship’. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, and Pat led the prayers. We had 2 new ladies with us this afternoon, Mrs Betty Randall and ………….. to which I gave a very warm welcome. Afterwards we enjoyed a lovely tea, provided by the ladies. I made a special cake for the occasion, about 22 ladies attended. We had a lovely card from Margaret and Ernie, with all their best wishes for our special day, which was really lovely, enjoyed by everyone. B. Ellis.

October 21^st 1993

Today is a lovely autumn day, lovely and sunny, but very cold, we had about 22 ladies attend our meeting. Our speaker was Mr Marshall Martin who showed slides and also spoke on ‘heraldry’, describing the various Coats of Arms. We sang the Ladies Friendship hymn ‘What a Friend we have in Jesus’, Pat led the prayers, Sheila gave the vote of thanks. Arrangements were discussed for our Christmas Dinner, which we are going to have on our December Meeting, Dec. 16^th. The ladies served tea and biscuits, at the close of the meeting. A bring and buy table, and a raffle, was also a success for meeting friends. B. Ellis.

November 18^th 1993

Today was a very cold afternoon, but our ladies still came to the meeting, to hear and see the lovely slides and pictures, and also hear the talk that our friend Mr David Hill gave, he and his wife Jean visited Rome on their holiday and also the lovely paintings and sculptures in the museum, and also the Coliseum. Our pianist Mrs Muriel Maidwell was unable to attend because of illness so Mrs Wilding gladly stepped in, prayers were said by Mrs Pat Bugby, Sheila gave the vote of thanks, the meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. We had sad news, one of our members, Mrs Groom passed away, she had been very ill for some time. B. Ellis.

December 16^th 1993

Today was our Christmas Lunch which 25 ladies enjoyed very much. The caterers were ‘The Village Kitchen’ from Raunds, a really lovely meal, tables decorated with red and white tablecloths, flower arrangements and crackers. Afterwards we had our Christmas afternoon meeting. Mrs Muriel Maidwell played for the Carols, Pat led the prayers, Joan read a Christmas Story, Sheila gave out Christmas Cards and Birthday Cards, Marian ran a raffle, the meeting ended with games and Pass the Parcel, won by Mrs Cook. Mince pies and a cup of tea ended a lovely afternoon. I thanked everyone for their help over the year of 1993. We received a lovely Christmas Card from Margaret and Ernie. B. Ellis.

January 20^th 1994

Today was our first meeting for 1994, about 18 ladies attended, it was a social afternoon. My dear friend Sheila took the meeting for me, as I was on holiday in South Africa visiting relations. I was very grateful to Sheila, also to Mrs Muriel Maidwell, our pianist, and also Pat Bugby, for leading the prayers, and everyone who helped to make it such a happy afternoon. B. Ellis.

February 17^th 1994

Not so many ladies attended the meeting today, being rather a very cold day. It was with sadness I had to tell the meeting that our speaker for today Mrs Barbara Evelyn, was very ill so she was unable to be with us. Such a lovely lady, very well loved by all. So a very dear friend, Mr Denis Rodwell came along and showed us photographs and slides of the various countryside and the Lake District. Photography is his hobby to which he is really devoted. We were very grateful to him for coming. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Pat Bugby led the prayers, Sheila Rodwell the birthday cards, a lovely afternoon which ended with the ladies serving tea and biscuits. B. Ellis.

March 17^th 1994

As this was our meeting before Easter, it was a devotional afternoon, the Rev Leslie Richards came to speak to us from the Methodist Church at Rushden (Judas’s Betrayal). Ladies brought various refreshments, which we all enjoyed with our cup of tea. Sheila won the prize for the Easter Posie in an egg cup. The pianist was Mrs Muriel Maidwell, Pat Bugby led the prayers and Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. An outing was discussed for later on in the year, when it is a little warmer. 21 ladies were present. B. Ellis.

April 21^st 1994

27 ladies attended our meeting today. Mr Ted Arnold came along and showed us his slides on Windmills, from various parts of the county and around the Norfolk broads (a lovely afternoon). Marian Sanders arranged the raffle. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Pat Bugby led us in prayer. We are having an outing to Rutland Water and then staying at Gretton for tea served by the ladies of the Women’s Institute. We are hoping for a lovely day on May26th. B. Ellis.

May 19^th 1994

A well attended meeting today, our speaker was well known Mr Bert Catlin who spoke about ‘I did feel a fool’. the ladies really enjoyed every minute of it(a wonderful man).Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Mrs Joan Hill led the prayers, as Mrs Bugby was unable to attend due to a bereavement. Mrs Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. We finished our meeting with a lovely cup of tea & biscuits served by the ladies. B. Ellis.

June 16^th 1994

Today was a lovely day for our meeting. 25 ladies attended, our Speaker was Mrs Pat Munroe from the Salvation Army in Rushden, it was a devotional afternoon which was really lovely, afterwards she joined us for our annual Strawberry Tea. Which I must thank Sheila and her husband for getting the lovely strawberries, served with cream, fresh scones & a cup of tea. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Mrs Pat Bugby led us in prayer, Mrs Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks, Marian ran the raffle, which had some lovely prizes. B. Ellis.

July 21^st 1994

23 ladies attended our meeting today, our speaker was unable to attend so we had a beetle drive which the ladies really enjoyed after our meeting. Arrangements are being made for another outing. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Pat led the prayers, Sheila had a bric-a-brac stall. We are not having a meeting in August because of the holiday. The next one is in September.

September 15^th 1994

After our months break our meeting today was our 11^th Anniversary. our speaker was the Rev John Tye. He brought a video to show us of his holiday cruise with his wife Christine. ‘A holiday of a lifetime’. It really was lovely. Pat Bugby led the prayers, Mrs Maidwell chose the 2 hymns and also was our pianist (I don’t know what we would do without her), Sheila Rodwell gave out the Birthday Cards and Marian ran the raffle, which is always a success. It was lovely to have Hilda Chettle back with us again. After the meeting we enjoyed a lovely tea, sandwiches, s. rolls, cakes and an Anniversary Cake, which I made, with a lovely cup of tea made by Pat. B. Ellis.

October 20^th 1994

27 ladies attended our Meeting today. Our Speaker was Mrs J. Turner, speaking on Treasures and Memories, a very interesting talk (of things she’d found when her mother died). Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Pat Bugby led the prayers, Marian Sanders the raffle, and Sheila Rodwell the vote of thanks. Arrangements were being made for a Christmas Lunch and a visit to Podington Garden Centre for Christmas decoration demonstrations. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. B. Ellis.

November 17^th 1994

Our meeting today had very sad beginning, I had to tell the ladies about one of our members Mrs Joan Sharp had passed away suddenly. We shall miss her very much as she came to the meeting regularly and also joined in our outings. We thank the Lord that we knew Joan, and she was able to join in fellowship and friendship with us. Following our sorrow we had a nice surprise, Ernie & Margaret came to the meeting, they were staying with Sheila for two days holiday, it was lovely to see them both. We had a lovely meeting. Our hymn was ‘Trust and Obey’. Pat led us in prayer, arrangements were made for our Christmas Lunch, which is before our next meeting, Thursday December 15^th at 12.30pm in the Village Hall. Our speaker was my husband Gordon who showed us slides of our holiday in South Africa earlier this year. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. It was lovely to see Bessie back with us, after her long illness. B. Ellis.

December 15^th 1994

Today was our annual Christmas Lunch which was held in the Village Hall. 26 ladies came. Afterwards we had our meeting with various items done by Mrs Ruby Wilmer, Mrs Pat Bugby and Mrs Muriel Maidwell. Pass the Parcel and Guess the amount of sweets in the Jar caused quite a lot of fun and laughter, being won by Mrs Sheila Rodwell and Mrs Edna Underwood. Our afternoon ended with a cup of tea and a mince pie served by Edna, Rita and Margaret. It was nice to see Betty looking well again after her illness. B. A. Ellis.

January 19^th 1995

This was our first meeting for 1995 and unfortunately I wasn’t able to be at the meeting today as I had just come home from being in the hospital. My dear friend Sheila Rodwell took over, which I was very grateful to her, she told me they had a lovely meeting and the speaker was Mr Don Annis who I have known for some years, so I was very sad not to be there. One of the old members came back to the meeting, Mrs Sylvia Brandford. I received a lovely card and best wishes from all the ladies at the meeting (I was very thrilled). B. Ellis.

February 16^th 1995

It was a lovely meeting, 23 ladies attended. It was rather a special meeting, one of our friends came and spoke about ‘Memories’. It was rather touching as well as humorous, about his young life being brought up in an orphanage. Mr Reg Summerling and his wife Freda, are a lovely couple, always ready to help others. Pat Bugby led us in prayer, Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits served by two of the ladies. B. Ellis.

March 16^th 1995

We had a lovely meeting today, the speaker being Mr Roy Stock, which he played and spoke on ‘My kind of Music’. I could have listened to him much longer it was lovely. The ladies also enjoyed it the music was lovely which he selected. Pat Bugby led the prayers, Sheila the vote of thanks and Muriel Maidwell was the pianist. We discussed outings for the coming months, i.e. May. B. Ellis.

April 20^th 1995

A lovely spring afternoon, our speaker was well attended. The speaker was the Rev Alan Smith from St Marys Parish Church, Rushden, a lovely meeting. 2 new ladies attended, Jean Perry and Bessie’s friend, it was lovely to see them. Being as the meeting was in Easter Week, we had an Easter tea, where members each brought some refreshments, with a nice cup of tea, made by Rita and Edna, to whom we are very grateful, which ended a lovely afternoon. An outing round the countryside calling for tea at Wadenhoe has been arranged for May 11th. We pray for a lovely day. B. Ellis.

May 18^th 1995

‘A Flower Afternoon’ is the best way to describe this afternoon’s meeting with Mrs Ena Mackness doing some lovely flower arrangements, which afterwards were raffled, with Mrs Olive King, Mrs Doris Harvey and Mrs Young being the lucky ones. We missed our pianist Mrs Muriel Maidwell who has been in hospital, we hope it won’t be long before she is with us again. A posy of flowers was the competition, won by Mrs O. Keys and Mrs B. Lines. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. B. Ellis.

June 15^th 1995

Today was a lovely day but very cold for June. 26 ladies attended the meeting, our speaker was Mrs May Hadley who did some cooking and also spoke on the text ‘The Salt of the Earth’. It was lovely to see Muriel back and we hope it won’t be too long before she is completely well again. I took her a bouquet of flowers and a card form the members. Pat led the prayers and Sheila gave the vote of thanks. Afterwards we had our annual Strawberry Tea, served by the ladies. A lovely afternoon enjoyed by all. We had a new lady come along, Mrs Bullin Cutting. I gave her a warm welcome from us all. B. Ellis.

July 20^th 1995

A very hot afternoon 29 degrees but lovely and cool in the Village Hall. Our speaker today was Mr Tom Partridge-Underwood, he called his talk ‘It couldn’t happen to a Mayor’. Speaking about his year of office when he was the Mayor of Wellingborough, a very enjoyable afternoon. Ruby gave us a few notes for singing, as Muriel was on holiday. Pat led the prayers and Sheila gave the vote of thanks, the afternoon ended with a lovely cup of tea and biscuits. It was lovely to see Rene Underwood join us, a lovely surprise. There will be no meeting in August, our next meeting is our 12^th Anniversary Meeting and Tea Party in September. B. Ellis.

September 21^st 1995

A beautiful sunny autumn afternoon for our 12^th Anniversary Meeting and afternoon tea when about 25 ladies attended. Our speaker was Mrs Barbara Evelyn, a lovely lady and friend. Pianist was Mrs Muriel Maidwell, Mrs Pat Bugby led us in prayer, Mrs Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. Another new member joined us today Mrs Gladys Hilson; we give her a very warm welcome. After the meeting tea was served by Mrs Rita Goode and Mrs Edna Underwood which I thank them for their help at our meetings. Another nice surprise was Ernie & Margaret came as they were visiting in Rushden. A raffle was organised by Mrs Marion Sanders. B. Ellis.

October 19^th 1995

A lovely autumn afternoon, the sun shining. About 24 ladies attended our meeting. The afternoon was taken by the ladies of the St Marys Mothers’ Union Choir. It was really lovely with poems, readings and various hymns and songs dating back to 1945, the Second World War years, 50 years ago. We enjoyed so much I have booked them for next year. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits served by the ladies. A lovely Bring and Buy stall raised £16+. B. Ellis.

November 16^th 1995

A real wet afternoon but despite the weather the ladies still attended. Mr & Mrs Bishop were the speakers. They brought their collection of old toys along. A really interesting afternoon enjoyed by everyone. Arrangements were made for our Christmas Lunch and Christmas Meeting which is on Thursday, December 14^th. Mrs Maidwell was the pianist, Pat led us in prayer, Marian the raffle and Sheila gave the vote of thanks. ‘A lovely afternoon’. B. Ellis.

December 14^th 1995

Today as our Christmas Lunch, 25 ladies sat down to a lovely lunch, served by ‘The Village Kitchen’ from Raunds. Everyone enjoyed it. Afterwards we had our meeting of carols, readings and prayers. Our pianist was Muriel Maidwell. Then we had a few games followed by mince pies and a cup of tea. I thanked everyone for their help and Sheila thanked me for arranging the dinner. Unfortunately Betty and Bessie were unable to be with us as they were both in hospital. Gwen had gone to see Bessie, we hope they will soon be well again, we remembered them in our prayers. This brings us to the close of our meetings for 1995 and we look forward to January the 18^th 1996 which is our first meeting in the New Year. We had a lovely Christmas Card from Ernie and Margaret. B. Ellis.

January 18^th 1996

The first meeting of 1996. It was a very sad meeting, in some ways, as one of our members Mrs Mary Howlett had passed away after being in hospital. Bessie, Betty and now Ruby are still in hospital, we hope they will continue to progress in health and hope they will soon be home again with their loved ones. Our speaker was the Rev Alistair Kaye, who spoke and showed slides of his visit to Romania, a very interesting afternoon, to see the work that is being done in this country to improve matters by dedicated people. Pianist was Muriel Maidwell, prayers were said by Pat. A donation of £10 was given to Alistair towards the work they are doing in Romania. Sheila gave the vote of thanks. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits made by Rita and Edna. B. Ellis.

February 15^th 1996

Today was a very cold day but nice and bright which didn’t deter our ladies from coming to the meeting. We had a very interesting afternoon after our usual meeting. Our speaker was Mr Peter White who spoke on his visits to the Arctic, winter and summer and also showed some lovely slides, enjoyed by everyone. The ladies brought gifts for the children of Romania that will be passed on for distribution when the Rev Alistair Kaye and friends make their journey there later this year. We were glad to have a card from Ruby to say she was now out of hospital and feeling quite a bit better. Betty is still in hospital but should be out soon. Bessie has gone into a nursing home and is settling in quite well. We miss them all very much at the meetings. Rita and Edna got a lovely cup of tea and biscuits which brought the afternoon to a close. B. Ellis.

March 21^st 1996

The first day of Spring, not very much like it except for the crocus and snowdrops are out and the little lambs in the fields. We had a slightly different meeting today with it being called an ‘Antiques Roadshow’. Our speaker was Mr James Burton who described and valued treasures brought by the ladies, a very interesting afternoon, enjoyed by everyone. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was the pianist, I led the meeting and led the prayers, as Pat was unable to attend because of illness, Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks. B. Ellis.

April 18^th 1996

Today was a lovely afternoon. 30 ladies attended. Our speaker was Mr David Hill, husband of one of the ladies, also a reader at Newton Bromswold Church. He spoke on the different books of the Bible and several ladies read passages from different books of the Bible (a very learned man). Mrs Muriel Maidwell was the pianist, Pat Bugby said the prayers and Sheila gave the vote of thanks. Afterwards we all enjoyed a belated ‘Easter Tea’ provided by the members, a lovely afternoon enjoyed by everyone. It was lovely having Bessie with us once again, she looked very well considering how long it has been since she was taken ill. B. Ellis.

May 16^th 1996

A very cold wind today but that didn’t stop a good attendance at our meeting. The cold was soon forgotten when we saw the lovely cine films our speaker brought to show us today. They included lovely holidays abroad and also more local places, thank you to Mr & Mrs Gwynn, we shall have them again at a later date. Arrangements have been made for an afternoon outing next week followed by tea at the Milton Ernest Garden Centre and a look round at the lovely plants and flowers. Our meeting ended with a lovely cup of tea and biscuits made by Rita and Edna. I don’t think we could manage without them. B. Ellis.

June 20^th 1996

Not so many ladies were at our meeting today, a lot of them were on holiday, but despite that we had a lovely afternoon. Our speaker was Councillor Mrs Maye Dicks who spoke on the meaning of the Alphabet. She explained it all in a lovely way, a very nice person and very hard working person in her district. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was the pianist, I led the prayers as Pat was on holiday, Sheila Rodwell gave the vote of thanks and Joan Lines sold the raffle tickets. After our meeting we had our Annual Strawberry Tea, scones and jam and a nice cup of tea, served by the ladies. It was lovely to have Betty Randall back with us again after her illness. A lovely afternoon, I was presented with a bouquet of flowers from the ladies for my hard work which I was very touched by their kindness and thoughtfulness. B. Ellis.

July 18^th 1996

A beautiful summer’s afternoon, it was really lovely. Mrs B. Palfrey was our speaker, she chose poems and stories for her talk, a really lovely lady. Several of our ladies were on holiday, but the other ladies soon offered their help in making the tea etc. We don’t meet in August as there are a lot of people away on holiday. Our next meeting in September will be our 13^th Anniversary so we look forward to that very much when we shall celebrate it with the ladies of the Rushden St Mary’s Mother’s Union Choir. B. Ellis.

September 19^th 1996

A real autumn day today, but the ladies all came to our 13^th Anniversary meeting and tea. The ladies of the St Mar’s Mother’s Union Choir led our meeting with readings and singing, a really lovely afternoon conducted by Mrs Sylvia Bramford, a really lovely person. After the meeting everyone sat down to an Anniversary tea served by the ladies. We missed Sheila, she is away on holiday so I gave the vote of thanks. B. Ellis.

October 17^th 1996

A lovely autumn afternoon so we had a lovely lot of ladies come to the meeting. Our speaker was Mr Anthony Saxby from the family name Saxby’s Pork Pork Pie Makers. He shoed slides from the past and present premises, the demonstrated pork pie making by hand (everyone to his trade). Then some of the ladies had a go (very good results). A very enjoyable afternoon. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was the pianist, I said the prayers because Pat was poorly, Sheila gave the birthday cards out and the vote of thanks. The meeting finished with a lovely cup of tea served by Rita and Edna (two lovely ladies). Not forgetting Joyce and the raffle. B. Ellis.

November 21^st 1996

Today was a very cold day but that didn’t deter the ladies. I had very sad news to tell them that Mrs Betty Randall had passed away after a long illness. She will be sadly missed, such a lovely person. Our speaker was Mrs Claire Bradford who spoke about and demonstrated flower arranging with dried flowers. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist and she also chose the hymn in memory of Betty. Hilda led us in prayer, Sheila told us she would have to stand down from her position which came as sad news as she has held it for about 13 years. I do hope someone will come forward to take it over. A decision has to be made at our next meeting. We must leave it in the Lord’s hands to help us or we may have to close down. B. A. Ellis.

December 19^th 1996

Today was our Christmas Lunch which was attended by 21 ladies. A really lovely lunch catered by the N.S.C. Catering, Church St, Rushden, followed by our Christmas afternoon meeting. We sang carols, Ruby read a poem, Pat gave a talk and led the prayers, Muriel played the piano. We finished by playing games and having a lovely cup of tea and mince pies served by Rita, Edna and Margaret. I thanked Sheila for all her help over the years and also the committee ladies and everyone who has helped over the past 12 months. I was pleased to have two ladies volunteer to take over from Sheila, Ruby and Margaret, and also Joyce who said she would come to fetch Ruby and I (our prayers have been answered). We look forward to 1997. B. A. Ellis.

January 16^th 1997

Today was out first meeting of the New Year. Our speaker was the Rev John Tomblin from St Mary’s Church, Rushden, he spoke about his life from going to college then into the ministry, a very interesting afternoon and a lovely gentleman. We were lucky with the weather as it has been very snowy and foggy and today the fog lifted to give lovely sunshine. About 18 ladies attended. Ruby took up her new position, which she did lovely, Pat said the prayers, Muriel played the piano and Joyce arranged the raffle. The meeting ended with a lovely cup of tea and biscuits served by the ladies. I am so pleased we are able to carry on with the meetings, the ladies really enjoy them. B. A. Ellis.

February 20^th 1997

22 ladies attended our meeting this afternoon, our speaker was Mr Roger Safford, who showed us his slides with a background of lovely music; we journeyed to Lynmouth, Dunster, Selworthy, Exmoor and Lorna Doone country. A really lovely afternoon (wonderful photographs). Pat led the prayers, Muriel was our pianist, Ruby gave the vote of thanks. Ruby has settled into her new role. We ended the meeting with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. We are hoping to have a coach outing later in the year when the weather is a little better. B. A. Ellis.

March 20^th 1997

20 ladies attended our meeting this afternoon, some of our ladies were not well, we hope they will soon be better, and able to join in fellowship with us again. Our speaker was very humorous, Mrs I. Higgins (retired Mayor of Wellingborough). A lovely lady to listen to, such a lovely personality. Muriel was our pianist, Pat led the prayers. A bring and buy stall and raffle made £11 for our funds. The meeting ended with a lovely cup of tea & biscuits. B. A. Ellis.

April 17^th 1997

Today 26 ladies attended the Friendship Ladies Meeting, it was a really lovely afternoon. Our ladies from the St Mary’s Mother’s Union Choir took the meeting with hymns, poems and readings. The pianist for the afternoon was Mrs Wendy Muncey. A competition for a spring posy arrangement was won by Mrs Ruby Willmer, our Judge was Mrs Wendy Muncey. Sheila Rodwell came to the meeting so we were able to make a presentation to her for her hard work with this meeting. Ruby gave the presents, a crystal vase, pot plant and a card. Joyce ran the raffle, at the end of the meeting we enjoyed a lovely cup of tea and a biscuit (a lovely afternoon). B. A. Ellis.

May 15^th 1997

A lovely sunny afternoon, today was an open meeting, so we had 4 new ladies join us, our speaker was Mr James Burton an antiques valuer. The ladies brought their treasures along and had them valued. Some ladies were delighted with the valuations. Mrs Muriel Maidwell played the piano for the hymns, Pat Bugby led us in prayer and Ruby Willmer presented Mrs Olive Key with a bouquet and cards on the occasion of her Diamond Wedding. Earlier in the month we had a country coach trip, stopping for tea at Gretton, prepared by the ladies of the WI (a lovely afternoon, enjoyed by everyone). B. A. Ellis.

June 19^th 1997

Today was a special day, it was our annual Strawberry Tea attended by … ladies. Our speaker for the meeting was Mr Reg Summerling, who spoke on the History of the St John Ambulance. A lovely person who is a dedicated man, his wife Freda came along as well, a lovely person also. Ruby took the meeting for me while I attended a funeral at the Village church. I am very grateful to Ruby for her willing help. After the meeting we all sat down and enjoyed strawberries and cream, buttered scones with jam and a nice cup of tea. Served by the ladies (a lovely afternoon). We had 3 new ladies join our meeting. B. A. Ellis.

July 17^th 1997

23 ladies attended our meeting today, our speaker was Mr Peter White, the Verger of St Mary’s Church, Rushden, who spoke and showed slides on Iceland, a lovely country, enjoyed by everyone. Mrs Maidwell was the pianist, Pat Bugby led the prayers, Ruby gave the vote of thanks and Joyce sold the raffle tickets. The Newton Bromswold Village Fete raised nearly £1400 (a wonderful result). The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea. B. A. Ellis.

September 18^th 1997

Today was our special day, it was our 14^th Anniversary, so we had our meeting as usual, it was slightly different. We had a soloist, Mrs Margaret Benning, she sang beautifully, accompanied by Mrs Joan Maddams (really lovely). Hilda, one of our members read a lovely poem about a blackbird. Mrs Joan Maddams played for the hymns, Joan another member led us in prayer. At the end of the meeting we sat down to a lovely Anniversary Tea supplied by the members (a lovely day to remember). 21 ladies attended. We missed Pat and Ruby who were on holiday. B. A. Ellis.

October 16^th 1997

26 ladies attended our meeting today, the speaker was Miss Marie Wyman, a lovely lady who read several poems, then showed us some lovely slides about the changing colours of autumn, a lovely time of the year, she also was our pianist as Mrs Muriel Maidwell was not very well. Pat Bugby led us in prayer and Ruby Willmer did the register and birthday cards and Joyce the raffle. A lovely afternoon ended with a lovely cup of tea and biscuits served by Rita and Edna. A bring and buy stall was successful. B. A. Ellis.

November 20^th 1997

Not a very pleasant afternoon, rather wet and miserable, but it didn’t deter the ladies coming to the meeting. Our speaker was Mrs Anne Delight, who spoke on her visit to Bosnia, a lovely lady and also a very kind person. One of our members, Hilda Chettle, was in hospital but we send her our love & best wishes for a speedy recovery. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Pat Bugby led us in prayers, Ruby the Birthday Cards and Joyce the raffle. The afternoon ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits served by the ladies. B. A. Ellis.

December 18^th 1997

Today was our special day, when we had our Christmas Lunch. 32 ladies and 1 gentleman sat down for a lovely three course meal prepared and served by N.S.C. Catering, Church St, Rushden, a really lovely lunch. Then we had our Christmas Afternoon Meeting, a reading by Joan, a poem by Sheila and the ladies of the St Mary’s Mother’s Union Choir sang two carols. Muriel was the pianist for the carols, Pat led the prayers, Ruby helped me take the meeting and Joyce ran the raffle. A really lovely afternoon, the ladies played some games, then a surprise visit by Father Christmas. The meeting ended with a cup of tea and mince pies served by some of the ladies. B. A. Ellis.

January 15^th 1998

A little different meeting today for a change we had a short meeting followed by a Beetle Drive which the ladies said they enjoyed very much. As it was our first meeting in the New Year, I thought it would be quite something different. The winners of the Beetle Drive were Mrs Pat Bugby and Mrs Sylvia Bradford the booby. Our afternoon ended with a lovely cup of tea, biscuits and Christmas cake brought by one of the ladies. B. A. Ellis.

February 19^th 1998

Nearly all the ladies were present today at our meeting, it was a lovely afternoon with audio slides being shown by Mr Roger Safford, of Knuston Farm, Old warden Church, St Mary’s Church, Rushden, Flower Festival, Rockingham Castle, Warwick Castle and more lovely places, accompanied by lovely music, really enjoyed by everyone. Our pianist was Mrs Muriel Maidwell, prayers led by Mrs Pat Bugby, the raffle by Mrs Joyce Line and birthday cards were given by Mrs Ruby Willmer. B. A. Ellis

March 19^th 1998

About 25 ladies attended the meeting this afternoon. Our speaker was Mrs Elaine O’Brien, speaking and showing slides on India where her husband and family visit to help at the Medical Hospitals and Clinics. They go every year to help in the poor parts of India (a wonderful couple). Mrs M. Maidwell was the pianist, Pat Bugby led the prayers and Ruby Willmer gave out the Birthday Cards and Joyce Line the raffle. A competition for the best posy was won by Mrs Edna Underwood. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. B. A. Ellis.

April 16^th 1998

Not quite so many ladies attended our meeting today due to illness and holidays, but all the same it was a lovely time. Mrs Christine carter was our speaker, whose subject was uniforms from when she was quite young to up-to-date when she helps the W.R.V.S. at Kettering General Hospital. Our pianist was Mrs Muriel Maidwell, Mrs Joan Hill led us in prayer, Mrs Ruby Willmer the birthday cards etc. and Mrs Joyce Lines the raffle. The meeting ended with fancy cakes and a cup of tea served by the ladies (a late Easter celebration). B. A. Ellis.

May 21^st 1998

A lovely summers afternoon, 23 ladies attended our meeting, which was led by Mrs Sylvia Bramford, and the St. Mary’s Mother’s Union Choir with songs, readings and 2 special monologues by Mr David Bramford, and being Ascension Day special hymns for the occasion. The pianist was Mrs Wendy Muncey (a really lovely afternoon). I gave a vote of thanks and tea and biscuits were served by the ladies at the end of the meeting. B. A. Ellis.

On May 14^th we had a lovely country trip round the Bedfordshire villages and then to Old Warden where we visited the Church of St Leonard, a lovely church, followed by tea at the Village of Langford, arranged by the ladies of the W.I. (a lovely afternoon). B. A. Ellis.

June 18^th 1998

Today was our annual strawberry tea, not a very nice afternoon for June, but 28 ladies attended. Our speaker was Mr H. Catlin, so we had a very humorous afternoon, entitled ‘Things I Remember’. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was our pianist, Mrs Pat Bugby led the prayers and Mrs Ruby Willmer gave out the birthday cards and gave the vote of thanks, the raffle was arranged by Mrs Joyce Lines. We had lovely tea of strawberries and cream, scones and jam and a nice cu of tea, served by the ladies. A lovely afternoon enjoyed by everyone. Thank you to Rita and Edna for washing up. B. A. Ellis.

July 16^th 1998

About 18 ladies attended our meeting today, so few in number; was due to illness and holidays. A lovely meeting, Mrs Joan Maddams played the piano as Mrs Muriel Maidwell was not too well due to a broken bone in her foot, which she had in a plaster. Mrs Pat Bugby led the prayers and then our guest Mrs Margaret Benning sang to us, such a lovely voice, the ladies enjoyed it very much. Mrs Ruby Willmer gave the vote of thanks and presented Mrs Benning and Mrs Maddams with 2 pot plants. I gave out that about £1600 was raised at the Village Fete, a wonderful result. It was a lovely afternoon, we take a break now until September when it is our 15^th Anniversary Service. B. A. Ellis.

November 19^th 1998

We had a lovely meeting as I had been unable to go to the September and October meetings because of illness, it was lovely to be back again, to share in the fellowship. Our speaker for the afternoon was Mrs Doreen Murdin, who showed us how to do painting on glass, so everyone had a go and there were some lovely paintings. Mrs Muriel Maidwell was the pianist and Joan Hill led the prayers. Ruby Willmer gave the vote of thanks. The meeting ended with a cup of tea & biscuits served by the ladies. B. A. Ellis.

December 17^th 1998

Today was the day for our Christmas Lunch, 28 ladies sat down to enjoy a lovely meal followed by our Christmas afternoon meeting. The ladies of St Mary’s Mother’s Union Choir sang two pieces accompanied by Mrs Wendy Muncey. Mrs Joan Hill read a reading also Mrs Wendy Muncey. Carols were sung by the ladies. Afterwards games were played and a visit from Father Christmas. Followed by mince pies and a cup of tea. A really lovely afternoon, looking forward to 1999. B. A. Ellis.

January 21^st 1999

Today was our first meeting of 1999, not so many ladies attended due to illness and holidays. We had our meeting which included a hymn and a prayer. Ruby gave the birthday cards and the notices. Then we had a beetle drive, which the ladies all enjoyed. Mrs Sylvia Bramford won the 1^st prize and Mrs Edna Underwood the booby. The afternoon ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. B. A. Ellis,

February 18^th 1999

A lovely meeting today, we had more ladies attend today. Unfortunately our pianist Muriel Maidwell was not able to be back with us as her husband is very poorly in hospital (we wish him a speedy recovery), also Doris and Gladys. Our speaker today was one of our member’s husband, Mr David Hill, talking and illustrating their holiday in Italy and Pompei, a very interesting afternoon and explained very good, everyone enjoyed it. The afternoon ended with a cup of tea and biscuits. (What should we do without Rita and Edna, our tea ladies). My grateful thanks to Jean for helping with the speakers for our next meeting. B. A. Ellis.

March 18^th 1999

A lovely spring afternoon, the little lambs in the fields and the little birds singing their songs. A lovely day for our meeting. … ladies attended. Hilda was our pianist today, Joan led the prayers, Ruby gave the birthday cards and Joyce the raffle. Our speaker today was Mrs Sheppard, a lovely lady who gave us a lovely message and also showed us her angels she had made, a clever lady. The meeting ended with a nice cup of tea and biscuits. Ruby gave the vote of thanks to our speaker and presented her with a lovely plant in a basket. B. A. Ellis.

April 15^th 1999

Rather a cold April afternoon for our meeting but most of our ladies attended. Our speaker was Miss Marie Wyman of Wollaston, a retired teacher, a lovely lady, she spoke on ‘Memories’ of post cards, pictures and paintings. Muriel Maidwell played the piano for the hymns, Joan led the prayers, Ruby gave the vote of thanks. A competition for a Spring Posy was won by Mrs Olive Key. Arrangements are being made for an outing later in the year. Mr & Mrs Underwood celebrate their Golden Wedding on April 16^th. We wish them both many more happy years together, a lovely couple. The meeting ended with a lovely cup of tea. B. A. Ellis.

May 20^th 1999

A lovely warm afternoon for our meeting today. Nearly all our members were present. We had our meeting, then we had a very dear friend to speak to us, Mrs Barbara Evelyn, she is a really lovely person, it was lovely to see her again because she has been very ill (God bless her). We are busy making arrangements for our outing to the ‘Swiss Garden’ at Old Warden, we pray for a lovely day. A lovely meeting. B. A. Ellis.

June 17^th 1999

Today was a special day, it was our annual strawberry tea, which we have after our meeting. 24 ladies and 1 gentleman were present. Our speaker was Mrs Brett, Pastoral Assistant Worker to St Mary’s Church at Rushden, she described her work among the public, a very nice lady, her husband came with her. Joan led the prayers, Hilda played the piano as Mrs Maidwell was very poorly, we hope she will soon be well enough to join with us again in our fellowship. We are now looking forward to our outing in July and then our anniversary in September. B. A. Ellis.

September 16^th 1999

Today was our special day, our 16^th Anniversary of our meeting. We had a lovely meeting, 22 ladies came. We were rather worried as Joan Hill was moving away and she was our treasurer and also led our prayers. A lovely person, always willing to help. We presented her with a crystal glass vase and a card for all her hard work. But our prayers were answered when Rita Goode said she would be our new treasurer, which we are very pleased about, as Rita has been coming to our meeting quite a long time. Hilda now takes the prayers for us and also plays the piano as Muriel hasn’t been very well lately. Ruby presented her with a bouquet for her hard work. Our speaker was Mr Bishop who collects old toy and brought a lot of them along to show us and talk about them. Afterwards we had a lovely tea & cakes, sandwiches and a special cake for the occasion. (A lovely afternoon). B. A. Ellis.

October 21^st 1999

A real autumnal afternoon but the ladies still came along to the meeting. We had a lovely afternoon. The St Mary’s Mother’s Union Choir came along to take our meeting. They sang some lovely hymns, read poems and readings. We are very sorry this will be their last time they will come to us as they are giving up. Such lovely ladies and such lovely voices and also Wendy their pianist. Sheila and Freda did the raffle. The meeting ended with a lovely cup of tea and biscuits. Arrangements are being made for our Christmas Lunch.

November 18^th 1999

I wasn’t well enough to attend this meeting but I know they had a lovely afternoon with Mrs Sheppard as the speaker.

December 16^th 1999

Today we had a lovely Christmas lunch when 29 ladies sat down in the Village Hall. Followed by a Christmas afternoon of prayers and carols, then a few games, followed with mince pies and a nice cup of tea and a visit from Father Christmas. Our next meeting will be in January 2000.