THE delights of Compton Verney Art Centre, was the excellent presentation this month. Christine Cluley, a Gallery Interpretor told of the chequered history of the Neo Classical house, having had several previous owners, some of whom neglected it. The earliest photographs were 1655 showing the original house and gardens. In 1730 it was remodelled in the Baroque style and Robert Adam influenced much of the interior and Capability Browne the gardens and surrounding area. During the war the army took it over and there was much destruction, until in 1952 it was purchased and saved by Sir Peter Moore Heir to the Littlewoods Pools family. Following his passion for the Arts he established one of the foremost art galleries in the country. The Folk Art Gallery is very special permanent exhibition and each year other special exhibitions are staged. This year they will stage a Canaletto exhibition, Martin Parr photographic one and William Morris Arts & Crafts. Lottery money will enable the Chinese Gallery and the Chapel to be updated and restored and a new Welcome Centre built with child friendly activities available. Our speaker said how much she had enjoyed coming to such a friendly and fun WI.

Visitors were welcomed from Long Marston WI and a new member Carol Dunham joined. Gill Thomas won the ballot for a member to attend the Buckingham Palace Garden Party, and Veronica Watson showed the lovely bangle which she had made at the WI Silver Wire Workshop, where she had gone with trepidation but thoroughly recommended the opportunity. Members were thanked for the help at the recent Litter Pick up in the village and encouraged to think of ideas to celebrate the 100th Year of the NFWI. A team will enter the Group Quiz at Badsey. A donation of £25 was made to The Pebworth Piper and £20 towards cakes at the Three Counties Show.

Requests were made for help and cakes for the Open Gardens event on May 24 and 25. The Big Book Bonanza was well stocked and raised money for the funds.

Pebworth in Bloom encouraged everyone to take part in the Scarecrow competition at the Open Gardens.