We have a wide variety of interesting speakers at the Ridgeway History Group meetings, but it is not often that we have one who arrives in costume (writes R.G.)!

It was a pleasure to welcome Simon Burgess who came to speak to us on 'Chimney Sweeps' wearing his 'lucky' wedding outfit.

He was a most entertaining speaker and showed us lovely wedding photos where he had been included to bring good luck to the couple. He dealt briefly with the history of chimney sweeping and concluded with a couple of horror stories from his own experience.

What we had all heard about small children being sent up chimneys is sadly true, and even worse, they were often terrified and to make sure that they climbed, burning material was held to the soles of their poor little feet. This was allowed until 1864 - so much for the 'good old days'.

He handed round fire safety leaflets so that those of us who have fires were reminded of the importance of regular sweeping.

We have no meeting in December as the annual Christmas dinner takes place on December 7.

Our next indoor meeting will be on January 4 at Skrinkle Youth Hostel at 7.30 pm. Our annual general meeting is always a light-hearted affair and with our 'bring a plate' arrangement we always enjoy a good supper. Make your new year resolution to join us.