Leonard Stanley Wine Circle with speaker Peter Berry on 'The Khyber Pass or Bust'

A GOOD crowd of members was welcomed back from our summer break by Chairman David, although there were a few apologies.

After the usual quick business, we were reminded of the Christmas Dinner, this year being held at The George Frocester on December 20, at a cost of £20 per head and a form will be circulated at October and November meetings for those wishing to attend.

Payment due October/November.

David said he would ascertain what the vegetarian option would be and let members know at October meeting.

David then introduced Peter Berry, a very interesting speaker who we have had before, who this time gave an amusing and graphic talk on ‘The Khyber Pass or Bust’.

Peter is a steam train fan but you do not have to be interested in trains, to enjoy his interesting talks and presentation.

This particular journey started from him watching Michael Pallin storming up the Khyber Pass on TV and helping organising a trip for himself and fellow steam train enthusiasts (eight in all) which commenced them hiring privately a whole steam train just for them, accompanied by three guards.

We saw pictures not only of the Pass itself and the rocky terrain, but of towns, people and markets etc.

Peter, has loads of topics to see and hear about, and we quite fancy hearing about his South African visit once it is compiled.

We then had a visit by Sue Davies, representing Diane Odell who has written a very interesting and emotional book about the mens on the Leonard Stanley Wall memorial and includes photographs etc of the village itself.

Sue sold her quota quickly and further copies can be ordered from Diane or Sue for £7.50 each.

As usual we enjoyed a variety of food with our usual tipple and needless to say the table was cleared before we departed.

Our next meeting is on October 25, which is the AGM and we will have a short Quiz.

Tim and David kindly ‘offered’ to take the minutes as Chris will be on holiday.