Pat Metcalfe welcomed members to the October meeting of Davenham WI and introduced guest speaker, Frederick Jones who, resplendent in his red jacket, gave a talk entitled "Oh what a carry on!"

Frederick is a Toastmaster, a role which originates from medieval times. He mainly officiates at weddings and had brought all the tools of his trade including a bell; gavel; champagne and glass. The tradition behind the wearing of a red jacket is said to have arisen many years ago following a function where a wealthy aristocrat was looking for his butler. As all men, both guests and servants were in white jackets, he couldn't find him. The butler/toastmaster was then dressed in red to be more obvious.

Meetings are held with couples before their big day. Frederick gives guidance about wedding etiquette and can even help write the best man's speech. The best man is often the maverick on the big day. Although advised to keep speeches short, clean and without references to old boy/girlfriends, they frequently can't resist which occasionally results in mayhem.

Frederick spoke of a wedding from "hell" where the wedding co-ordinator hadn't given him any information until 9am on the day of the wedding; someone in the band had a heart attack; the best man had an anxiety attack and the bride slipped in the bathroom and broke her nose!

The next meeting on Wednesday, November 12 will be the AGM and members evening together with a book sale. For details ring 01606 354684.