THE meeting was very well attended and as is our normal practice, brief business was followed by the speaker then social time with refreshments and back to the social part of the business.

This seems to be the most popular arrangement both for members and speakers as it means if the speaker wishes to get away they can and they don’t have to wait while we decide on outings, social events and such.

The March meeting commenced with greetings and welcoming visitors.

Birthday posies were presented and then Rose Hewlett started on her talk entitled ‘The Great Severn Flood’ of the year 1607.

We were taken along the estuaries along North Cornwall and North Dorset and along the Somerset Coastlines.

There was a detailed map of the area from Gloucester on which Rose covered the way the flood made its way along the Severn and right into Gloucester where it entered the docks and ruined the merchandise waiting to be shipped out.

Along another tributary into Bristol the same thing happened and the damage to the local economy was astronomical both in life and property.

Rose illustrated her talk with a large map which showed the route taken by this vast tidal wave took so many lives.

It was obvious that Rose had spent much time in investigating this subject and it was a help for her audience to follow the way the flood entered the land.

It was interesting to learn that as far back as 1607 the residents called for the annual clearing of the drains to allow the flood water to drain away.

We then had our refreshments and members returned to their seats while the business of the meeting continued.

Members were encouraged to join the Easter Egg Trail on March 29 and to help with some cakes for sale as the funds will help pay the Barrister acting on behalf of Mankley Action Group.

Arrangements were discussed about the outing to Blenheim Palace on May 13, and details regarding the Baton Relay were given out.

This will take place on Sunday, March 22, and as many as possible are requested to be at the Village Hall at around about 12.45 (it is impossible to be more accurate).

The Banner was on display and was agreed by all to be a magnificent piece of work.

The next meeting will be on Monday, April 13, when Shaun McCormick will speak the subject of 'The Yeomen of the Guard’.

Please note that this meeting will be held in the Social Club.

There will be a sale of Books and Jigsaws.

Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month (unless otherwise noted) in the Village Hall at 7.30pm.

Visitors are always welcome but, if you would just like to know more about us, please telephone the President on 822435 or Secretary on 822299.

We would like to welcome you.