East Stanley: THE President Anne Stayman welcomed members to the March meeting. Birthday greetings were given to Hilda Burnett, Vera Wilkinson and Rae Smith.

Rita Hall was thanked for the flowers, which were given to Phoebe Wilkinson.

Final arrangements were made for the visit to the group meeting at Burnhopefield on March 30. Arrangements were also made for the birthday dinner to be held on April 14.

The raffle was won by Olga Hodgson, who also won the special raffle.

The competition, four butterfly buns, was won by Phoebe Wilkinson with Olga Hodgson second.

Aileen and Dillon from Peter's Bakery gave a very interesting talk on the history of their firm. They also brought samples of their products. They were thanked by the president.

The evening ended with a game of bingo organised by Rae Smith.

The next meeting will be on April 11, when the speaker will be Les McGhee on jewellery.

Annfield Plain WI: GENIA Collin, the president welcomed members. The secretary Miss Ellwood dealt with correspondence and treasurer Ruth Bates gave the financial report.

The Golden Thread, a funny poem entitled I'm An Ancient Briton, was read by Eleanor Thew and the item of interest came from Jackie Mills, who gave an interesting account of the history of Denman College.

The 75th birthday dinner at Harperley last month was enjoyed by everyone and thanks were extended to Ruth Bates for providing the birthday cake.

Margaret Westwater reported on the group committee meeting and there has been an excellent response from members for tickets. Arrangements for transport were discussed.

The forthcoming outing to Snods in May was discussed and members were asked for suggestions for other possible outings.

The speaker was Mr Kelly, who gave a talk entitled, Comedians - They make us laugh. Mr Kelly certainly made our members laugh with his entertaining presentation.

The competition, a necklace made from natural materials, was won by Joan Sowdon and the mystery raffle by Nancy Bevan.

An enjoyable evening ended with tea and biscuits served by Noreen Breen and Mary McKee. The next meeting in April will be a members' night.

Satley WI: THE monthly meeting was held at Hall Hill Farm. Mrs Plews presided and 18 members attended. After singing Jerusalem Mrs Plews introduced Morag Webb from Thorntons who told members about the history of chocolate and the history of Thorntons. She then passed samples around for members to taste, which were thoroughly enjoyed. Members also bought Easter eggs and chocolates, which Mrs Webb had on display. Mrs Scott gave the vote of thanks.

Mrs Smith and Mrs Hudson then served refreshments after which members got on with the business. Mrs Scott is to be delegate at the national AGM and the county AGM. Members voted to visit the Scottish Borders for the annual outing on May 26.

As the parish hall is still out of use it was decided that for this year's money raiser the WI would take two tables at the county car boot sale at Witton-le-Wear on July 16. Six members are to attend Lanchester WI's antique night. Orders were taken for the new WI badge.

The competition for a bon-bon dish was won by Sheila Lowther, 2nd Muriel Bell, 3rd Jean Portwood. The raffle was won by Muriel Bell.

The next meeting will again be held at Hall Hill Farm on April 11.