MEMBERS of the Wednesday Club, including several who had been unable to attend for a while, were warmly welcomed to the November meeting by vice-chairman May Martin.
The afternoon's entertainment was In the bleak mid-winter by Brian Hallworth. He had members intrigued and laughing at his comprehensive review of customs, traditions and superstitions to do with the winter solstice and how Pagan rites were adapted to cater for Christian worship.
Pilgrimages to the Holy Land in medieval times were very dangerous, so Saint Francis created a grotto at Greccio in Italy which led Brian to talk of nativity plays and the significance of plants in seasonal decoration – holly, ivy, mistletoe, the tree with a star on top, candles, Christmas cards, wassailing and food.
It was a truly fascinating presentation which showcased Brian's pictures to the accompaniment of carols. Val Miller thanked him for a wonderful entertainment.
There is a Christmas lunch in December at the Hare and Hounds in Crowton.
The next meeting is January 2015 with a talk by Raymond Rush.
Jean Harrop
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