IN THE absence of our President, the meeting was opened by Maureen Vice President.

She welcomed everyone and gave birthday flowers to Pauline Steele.

It was her birthday too this month and members sang Happy Birthday to both.

We deviated from our usual format, and our speaker for the October meeting was John Heathcott who gave a captivating talk on Ancient Woodlands of Gloucestershire.

It was interesting to learn that we were one of the worse countries covered by woodland and unfortunately a lot of our ancient woodland had been destroyed.

We were told about the Woodland Trust and how it operates and which owns about 1,300 woods and employs over 200 people.

It was a fascinating talk, starting with telling us that Silver Birch trees started the woodlands and what our native trees were before we became an island.

The Yew tree is oldest living tree in the country.

William the Conqueror took land for himself which he called ‘forests’ and managed them and we learnt how the words ‘chase’, ‘park, ‘warren’ and ‘wood pasture’ came about.

Gloucestershire has about 30 per cent woodlands, mostly due to the Forest of Dean.

Apparently the Beech woods in Gloucestershire are the best in the country and John showed us slides of the bluebell woods which were simply beautiful, plus the wild daffodils at Dimmock.

He also gave details of woodlands close to us, including Cirencester Park, Silk Wood and the Stanleys etc.

He finished his interesting talk showing us wild flowers and fungi which grow in the woods.

Vote of thanks was given by Chris.

Business commenced with Maureen reminding members that it is the AGM next month and that a President and some committee members were required. If we are unable to fill these positions, then the Stroud Shambles WI was in danger of closing.

The suggestion box was opened, with suggestions of lunches, more local walks, someone to look after the speaker and a rota of members to give vote of thanks at each meeting.

Members were reminded of notices and to make sure that they filled in all the appropriate details, including emergency numbers.

Unfortunately the visit to the Guide Dog breeding centre had been postponed until February 11, 2015.

This will be re-advertised in November/December.

Chris gave details of the WI 2015 Baton exchange and said that our part was transporting the baton from Stroud to Rodborough WI.

This would take place on Sunday, March 22 and we would be given times nearer to the date.

Each WI within our Group – The Weavers will take place and members were asked for suggestions how we could celebrate this.

As Stroud is famous for cloth and the first lawn mower, it was felt that we should somehow incorporate some of this, in particular the red cloth for uniforms and the green baize cloth, including perhaps tennis balls.

Several members offered to transport the baton.

We held a successful Bring and Buy Stall and all enjoyed a natter over coffee and biscuits.

Next meeting is on November 12 when it will be the AGM, followed by a Quiz.