WOW - hats galore. Catherine Clark brought along a selection of hats, hatinators and fascinators from her for hire collection of about 2000! Aged 18 Catherine wanted to pursue a career in horticulture but was persuaded it was not a suitable for a girl. Clearly no-one told that to Charlie Dimmock. Catherine went to Harrods and through their management training eventually into fashion buying. After marriage she became a volunteer with National Childbirth Trust in Essex and Norfolk. On moving to Worcestershire she worked in banking within a hospital but then decided to work from home with fashion. The hat hire business was born. The collection takes up 3 bedrooms and wall space, with hats tried on in the well lit conservatory. Catherine believes there is a hat to suit everyone emphasising a hat helps posture and makes the wearer feel confident. Larger hats are made of Sinamay, a banana fibre lightweight and letting light through. Modelling her samples showed examples of shape, crown height, depth and decoration, with advice on how to wear them. There were some wonderful colour choices and matching handbags. Catherine will also adapt size and decoration when a hat is hired out. Through the business she has met some interesting people going to many types of events, Ascot ladies day is a busy time. She also showed her collection of historic hats, including a Christian Dior 1950, a felt model from 1940 and even one in plastic

Carol and Jane conducted the business. In particular details of the annual meeting when there will be a Bring and Buy and the book stall and a quiz. Future events include:

• An art exhibition by member Rita Thorn, Gardens Gallery Cheltenham until May 3

• Worcester Races evening July 26, tickets need to be booked

• Summer outing: Hampton Court Palace, August 25.

Next meeting: Tuesday May 10 is the annual meeting to elect committee and president. We will also hear more about the resolutions for the NFWI conference in Brighton on June 11.

DIANE BARLOW