I am grateful for the excellent facility at Evesham’s library that has enabled me to compile my reports in recent weeks. And we have had two memorable occasions recently worthy of mention.

Firstly, on September 18 we were welcomed at the Fleece Inn at Bretforton by Nigel Smith the landlord. As locals will know, the Fleece is a National trust property and many will know of the fire that gutted the inn in 2004. But perhaps few will know of the history of the buildings which date back to the 1400s although the inn itself dates back only to the mid-1800s. Nigel outlined all this for us with the aid of a visual presentation as well as an assured and fascinating commentary. He showed us the many artifacts, explained the work that was done following the fire, spoke about the impact of Lola Taplin and described the various film and TV interest in the location.

Following the presentation, some of us sampled some of the various ales, including the latest Bell Tower ale. Thanks Nigel.

Then on September 25 we were joined by Denis Cartwright of Tetbury who spoke with great fondness of his footplate experiences on four continents. A former English lecturer, Denis inherited his fascination with railways from his father who had been a haulage contractor with constant access to railway yards. He showed us numerous slides of steam cranes and shunting engines, beginning with those in Leicestershire. He then described his visits to Malaya, Africa and Canada – all of which were accompanied by his wife, who must have been just as interested as he was.

President Jim Cox and Brian Dutton thanked Denis for his talk – remarking that he had achieved a schoolboy’s dream.

Would members, and anyone interested in attending, please note that from Thursday, October 2 our meetings will commence at 10.30am. Our speaker on that day will be Paul Whiting who will talk about ‘head up displays’ in cars.

CHRIS DONOUGH