DIANA Humpreys ably assisted by Fred Ward, gave an amusing and informative illustrated presentation entitled 'Dear Mr Punch'.

She began by saying Punch originated in Italy as Punchinello in the sixteen hundreds, the character was adopted by Germany and given a different name.

It later spread across France and eventually to Britain where it became Punch and the booths exhibiting Punch & Judy shows proliferated across the country.

It was particularly popular at the seaside where children would sit on the sand thrilled by the antics of Mr Punch.

Diana had meticulously researched her subject and we were shown scenes from various locations and she even had a very old print of one showing a performance in Stroud.

This was a presentation of the highest quality and they were thanked by the chairperson, Valerie Fussell, on behalf of an appreciative audience.

It was Diana and Fred's wish that their speaker's fee be donated to the MacMillain Nurses.

A collection was also made amongst members for the same cause.

There were two competitions both judged by Bill and Bridget Berrecloth from Brockworth who were complimentary regarding the quality of wines on offer.

The rose medium sweet class was won by Joyce Meadows with Cyril Young second and Christine Philp third.

John Coleman took top spot in the white dessert class with Dave and Brenda Marlow taking second and third respectively.