Chester-le-Street TG: THE first October meeting was opened by the vice chairman. The members were welcomed, the fire drill explained and sick members were wished well.

The speaker was the Reverend Kevin Dunne, whose subject was Ethiopia. Members were shown slides from his visit there. After this fascinating talk a vote of thanks was given and a refreshment break was enjoyed.

The business of the evening began with sympathy being extended to Cibil Howe on her recent bereavement.

Dorothy read the minutes and matters arising were discussed. The outing to Northallerton and Brymore had been an enjoyable day. Irene gave the treasurer's report. The door prize was won by Rhonda Benson. The prize for an African ornament was won by June Shields with Dorothy Lowery and Ellen Gales runners up. Forthcoming events were discussed.

The second meeting of the month was the guild's 69th birthday dinner. The president, Mary Mossop and the chairman, Doreen Yeates were each presented with a basket of flowers, beautifully done by Alice Lord. Members were then royally entertained by the Jubilee Singers, a wonderful finale to the celebration.

Wentworth Park WI

THE October meeting was held in Ouston Community Centre. After opening with Jerusalem, Maureen Barwick read the minutes of the last meeting. This is normally done by the secretary Iris Robinson, but she is recovering from a foot operation. Good wishes were sent for a speedy recovery.

Members welcomed one new member and one guest. Margery Moodie gave her delegate's report from the Durham Federation Autumn Council Meeting, Margery was also lucky later in the evening by winning the door prize.

Mr Duffy was the speaker for the evening with 'Laughter in the Force'. He put everyone right on the meaning of 'Paying Through the Nose'. Olive Norwood gave the vote of thanks.

Olive Harwood and Janet McDougall shared the competition prize. They had both made cakes, which contained a 'file'.

Members had a cup of tea accompanied by a piece of teabread. During tea time items were purchased from a rainbow stall, which was well supported. The next meeting will take place on November 11.

North Lodge

THE October meeting was opened by Brenda Dawson who welcomed 33 members and one visitor. Aileen Piggot dealt with the correspondence and county letter. She also gave an excellent report on the Autumn Council Meeting.

The speaker was Lesley Hutchinson, her subject was the manufacture of jewellery and gold. Her husband, Leslie, also helped out with the talk and the sale of jewellery.

The competition, an evening bag, was won by Freda Greenwell with Elizabeth Whiley, second and Olive Murrell, was third.

The next meeting will be held on November 11 in the United Reformed Church (Bethel), Chester-le-Street, at 7pm, with a mystery speaker. Visitors are welcome.

South Moor WI

THE October meeting began on a sad note, a minute's silence was observed for a long-standing committee member Kitty Lewins who died recently. Jerusalem was sung and the president welcomed members, also remembered were two sick members. Readings were given by Vera Soulby, Friendship, and by Marion Green, Only a Housewife.

The secretary Doreen Pearson read the minutes, correspondence and county letter, names were taken for the Christmas dinner.

Treasurer June George gave the financial statement. A special raffle prize given by Vera Soulsby was won by Joyce Wright.

The competition, a paperweight, was judged by Dora Moore, first was June George, second Joyce Wright and third Vera Soulsby. Our secretary who had been on holiday in Canada gave a delightful display on The Red Hat Society, which is sweeping Canada and America. She modelled her red hat and purple T-shirt.

Tantobie WI

MRS Smith welcomed members to the October meeting. Mrs Wallace read a tip. The minutes were read and plans were made for theatre visits and Christmas celebrations.

Mrs Oliver sold poppies. Ward Allen entertained with an amusing and interesting session and was thanked by Mrs Wallace. Tea was provided by Mrs Gott and Mrs Cawthorn. The raffle was won by Mrs Morgan and the competition by Mrs Smith, Mrs Stacey and Mrs Wallace.