Lanchester WI: THE Derwent Group meeting was held at Satley Parish Hall on May 22.

President Muriel Bell welcomed members and introduced the officers of all four institutes present.

Jerusalem was sung, after which group convenor Maureen Clarkson read the minutes and gave the financial statement of last year's meeting held at Edmundbyers.

Executive member Sheila Tock gave details of coming events including the evening to be held at Ushaw College on July 15.

The guest speaker was Louise Gidney who gave a presentation of Costume through the Ages from Roman to Tudor.

The competition, four rolled ginger biscuits, was judged by Mrs Tock and won by Castleside. Members were served a delightful supper after which they were entertained by Satley member Joyce Wilson giving her own interpretation of poems she had composed herself which were highly amusing.

A very successful evening concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.

Consett Afternoon WI

THE May meeting was opened by Linda Richardson. Marion Tucker read the minutes of the previous meeting.

A unanimous vote was taken on resolutions to be discussed at an annual general meeting to be held in Albert Hall.

Norma Caldwell gave details on a forthcoming outing to Holker Hall and Gardens in July. It was agreed to hold a pie and peas supper in August, details to be finalised. An invitation was received from Leadgate WI to attend the meeting on June 16 at 2pm to hear a talk on Blinking Eye Bridge.

The speaker was Janet Thackeray who gave a very interesting slide show on Durham Cathedral. Marion Tucker gave the vote of thanks. The competition, mini cup and saucer, was won by Val Rose, second Joan Dance, third Eleanor Bott. Raffle prize was won by Ada Oughton. Next meeting is on June 24 at 1.30pm.