Hermitage Chester-le-Street Guild: THE guild met in Red Rose School for a Harvest supper prepared by the committee and very much enjoyed.

With the holiday season over, almost all the members were back together again.

Business was conducted by the chairman, Mrs Lancaster, and from the secretary Mrs Wood's minutes members learned news from national headquarters. Five members had attended a regional meeting held at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington, where they met the newly-elected national officers.

Items for the diaries are: the Federation carol service at St Mary's Church, Whickham, on December 10, at 7pm; carol service shared with Chester-le-Street guild in the parish church on December 20, at 7pm and a Christmas dinner on December 8, at 7pm, at Chester-le-Street Golf Club.

A poppy wreath was laid on behalf of members on Armistice Sunday.

The speaker, Michael Hall, then took members on a colour slide journey along the Appalachian Trail. Members marvelled at his bravery in tackling the journey on his own. Thanks were expressed by Mrs Wood, who also won the competition of the night.

The next guild night on December 14 is the Christmas celebration with mince pies, shortbread, ginger wine and carol singing. The speaker will be Mrs Thackray showing slides of the seasons and the competition will be an interesting tin. New members welcome.

Wentworth Park WI

THE November meeting was held in Ouston Community Centre.

After the usual opening with the singing of Jerusalem and the minutes of the last meeting, members sang Happy Birthday to Beryl Garnham and Beryl Waddell. Members were then entertained with a selection of anecdotes from Freda Weatherspoon.

Everyone enjoyed a selection of games, quizzes and bingo and a soup and stottie supper, kindly supplied by Maureen Barwick.

A display of crafts completed by members during the year, provided a lovely backdrop to the hall.

The door prize was won by Pat Stephenson.

An enjoyable evening among friends ended at 10pm.

Chester-le-Street TG

THE November meeting was opened by the chairman, Doreen Yeates. Members were welcomed, the fire drill explained and sick members were wished well. Three new members were welcomed and apologies for absence were read.

The speaker was Pamela Corson, of National Legal Services. Pamela spoke about wills, protecting your property, power of attorney and children's trusts. After a very informative talk there was time for questions. Irene gave the vote of thanks followed by a refreshment break.

Dorothy read the minutes for October and matters arising were discussed. The regional meeting attended by many of the members had been most enjoyable and enlightening. Irene gave the treasurer's report.

The door prize was won by Bessie Parker. The winner of the competition for a pen was Doreen Yeates and runners-up were June Baker and Winnie Watson.

Dorothy discussed the correspondence detailing future events. Members were reminded about the Federation carol service on December 15 at Whickham and the guild's own service on December 20. The Christmas party is on December 13.

On November 15, members went to the Arnison Centre on a visit to Sainsbury's store and enjoyed demonstrations, tasted delicious nibbles and even had some time to shop. Thanks to Jean Boggon, the programme secretary and her assistant Maureen Cruddas and also to Sainsbury's pleasant staff for a delightful evening enjoyed by all.