Last Friday, February 14, members of Carew Youth Club were transported by their parents to the workshop of Mr. Kerry Thomas, of East Williamston. Mr. Thomas is a craftsman who makes love-spoons, so it was very apt that it was also Valentine's Day.

There were 46 members present, and all listened as Mr. Thomas explained to them the traditions and the meaning of the love-spoon. He had made his first love-spoon in 1969 for his then girlfriend, who later became his wife.

According to tradition, it was said that a gentleman would craft a love-spoon whilst courting, and this was then presented to the lady, as a symbol of their betrothal to one another, instead of buying a ring.

However, Mr. Thomas did point out if anyone present thought that this was a good idea to save buying a ring, that this may not always be the case, as his girlfriend had still insisted on receiving a ring also!

Mr. Thomas went on to say that other love-spoons he had made for his wife commemorated their wedding day, the birth of their children, and more recently one for their pearl wedding anniversary.

A particular favourite was one that had been designed by Mr. Thomas's wife, which was a set of keys, with each one designed to ask a question concerning the 'key of life.' Does the key to life lie in space, your hobby, money, stardom, your children, self or The Cross?

All of the members were allowed to 'have a go' at crafting a spoon, with Mr. Thomas firmly in control of all chisel and tools! Members also asked various questions.

Each Youth Club evening is concluded by the Epilogue, which John led as members sat in the workshop. He asked that they look around the room, to look at the number of love-spoons that were on display, which showed the 'Praying Hands' and also the 'Giving Hands.'

He reminded the young people present, that Jesus had been a carpenter, who had worked with wood, as did Mr. Thomas, and what a wonderful material it was to work with.

Angelo proposed the vote of thanks to Mr. Thomas and also the leaders for arranging the visit. Sarah seconded this and thanked Mr. Thomas for showing them the love-spoons.

The evening was then concluded by a visit to Kilgetty for fish and chips.