ST ISSELL’S WI president Diane Rigden wished the ladies a Happy New Year with a special welcome to the speaker, Phil Thompson from Paul Sartori Hospice at Home.

Phil had a wealth of information about the charity, from its beginnings 42 years ago, to the fact that it now takes £3,500 per day to keep everything running. He advised that all equipment and services they provide are free of charge to anyone who needs them. He gave information about the paid staff, the many volunteers and the shops throughout the county.

Several ladies had praise for the support they had received from the charity, and Phil told ladies of some forthcoming fundraising events. Diane thanked him for a most interesting talk with so much information.

Following welcome refreshments, the business continued with birthday wishes going to Jean Roberts, Joyce Ludlow, Bev Bennett, Shirley Will and Madelene Brace. Diane read the newsletter, and also read the resolutions, Access to toilets receiving the most votes.

There was some discussion about International Women’s day, and it was hoped to hold a coffee morning on March 14, venue to be decided. Unfortunately, the trip to Cardiff had had to be cancelled due to the weather.

The rosebowl ladies had met; it was agreed that the Anything Goes ladies would meet every Monday (starting January 19) at 2pm in the Regency Hall, Saundersfoot and the craft group will meet on Tuesday afternoons at the Methodist Chapel.

The carol service raised £95 for St Issell’s Church.

Sue reminded ladies that subscriptions, costing £54, will be due in April. This month’s competition winner was Anne Leech, and Mary Cavell was the lucky raffle winner.

Diane wished ladies a safe journey home amid such dreadful weather, with the reminder that the February meeting will also be at 2pm.