New president Linda Williams welcomed members and speakers, who had arrived to wine and Christmas music, to the December meeting. With their display of attractive and individual studio pottery as the backdrop, Mr and Mrs Christopher gave a fascinating and entertaining talk about many aspects of work with clay. We each made a decorated initial of our names, which was then made into a large planter pot, which will be fired and returned to us. The talk was followed by a finger buffet.

Members who went on the Christmas trip to Waddesdon Manor had enjoyed it despite freezing cold but sunny weather. Those who went to see 'Sister Act' at the Palace Theatre found it most enjoyable. There will be a visit to see Astwood Bank Operatic Society's production of 'Carousel' in March. Some crafting ladies will attend County's Needle Felting Workshop in February. All members going to the Christmas Lunch at the Southcrest Hotel on December 14 should meet there at 12 noon.

The competition, for a Christmas cracker joke, was won by Jean Chesterton, who also won first prize in the raffle, of a skilfully decorated cake made by committee member Nicky Shaw.

There is no Craft Club this month. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 2 January, at 7.30pm at Beoley Village Hall, when Chris O'Grady will tell us about 'A walk to Rome.' The competition is for the most unusual hot water bottle. New members are welcome.