Stroud Shambles WI with speaker Mr Shaun Mc Cormack on the Yeomen of the Guard

SUZANNE our president opened the meeting and welcomed everyone including one new member and one visitor.

Matters for discussion were then highlighted.

The usual notices are on display for members to look at.

Suzanne then reminded members that our Group Rally is on April 6.

Our WI is the hosts and tickets are available from our treasurer.

She encouraged members to support this event.

The details for our visit to Houses of Parliament are now finalised.

Members should meet in the Leisure Centre car park at 7.15am so coach can depart promptly so we can get to London ready for our tour at 12noon.

Following the tour we can get lunch before departing for home at 2.30pm.

Birthday flowers were given to Molly and Marion and Happy Birthday was sung.

Suzanne then introduced our speaker, Mr Shaun Mc Cormack and his talk about the Yeomen of the Guard.

He gave us a brief history on how the guard was formed in the 1400s to protect the sovereign and continues to do so to this day. It is correctly known as The King or Queens Guard of the Yeoman of the Guard.

He illustrated his talk with slides and also brought along the uniform he wears.

This was passed round the members.

We were all surprised how heavy it was and admired the beautiful embroidery on it.

The Guard comprises men who have retired from the services but up until recently the navy was excluded.

Also traditionally only men have been eligible but two women will join the guard in 2018.

All in all a fascinating talk.

Jenny then gave the vote of thanks.

Refreshments and social time followed.