HERE we are at the beginning of another year. The days are getting longer, the snowdrops are appearing and there is lots to look forward to. There were fewer of us than usual at last week's meeting, partly due to the winter 'bugs' and one lucky member being in warmer climes. Nevertheless we enjoyed our evening and in particular the talk from Peter Wisbey and David Viner about the work of the Talking Newspaper in Evesham, which aims to help anyone who is blind or partially sighted, or who has difficulty reading due to an incapacity. With a team of volunteers comprising Readers, Editors, Copiers and Technicians, news items from the local press and topical stories are recorded onto a memory stick. These are copied and sent out by Royal Mail and can then be played back on a portable media player, which is provided to the listener on loan, free of charge. Peter encouraged any members who might be interested in helping the Talking Newspaper to provide this valuable service to get in touch with the office in Queens Road.

Following Peter's talk, an extra treat was having homemade cake instead of biscuits with our cup of tea, kindly provided by Liz Rodway.

Several options were being considered for this year's outings, including the Guide Dog Training Centre in Leamington and Adam's Farm. Ann encouraged members to suggest other places they might like to visit and also reminded us about next month's competition - an interesting or unusual item beginning with 'F'.

On February 12 Sue Ablett will tell us about the Waterways of Russia and in March, John Darby will explain the work of the Evesham Street Pastors.

Our meetings are held at the Hampton Guide and Scout Community Hall on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm. Do come and join us.

CHRISTINE ROBERTSON