Keep it personal! This was handwriting specialist Sandra Grayson's advice when she came to speak at our April meeting. Sandra is a member of both the National Handwriting Association and the British Institute of Graphologists, and has always had a passion for handwriting.

Before talking about her present job she gave an interesting account of her varied career path until she had, in her words, a life changing moment. This was while volunteering with the charity Get London Reading and an eight year old boy watching her write with a fountain pen described it as “magic writing”. This gave her the incentive to resign from her job in stockbroking and set up classes in calligraphy. As the schools were not interested in her teaching the children she started taking adults classes. This led to her teaching calligraphy on cruise ships after one of her students suggested the possibility. Thirty three countries later she has found this a very enjoyable experience!

She also talked about graphology – the hidden meaning of handwriting. We were all relieved that she didn't ask any of us for samples of ours but she did give us a few “rules of thumb” and encouraged us all to keep the art of handwriting alive. On behalf of us all Maureen thanked her for a very interesting talk.

The competition winners were:- 1st Helen Roe, 2nd Daphne Glover and 3rd Viv Breed.

The Jean Drew Plate for a flower arrangement was won by Jean O'Loughlin, with Jenny Store second and Jo Bridgewater thirrd.

Our AGM takes place on May 10 when we will also have a “Taste and Try”of our favourite puddings. All welcome at Wulstan Hall, Priest Lane at the usual time of 7.30pm.

JEAN BARTON