AT the March meeting 58 members and two visitors attended to hear Hugh Davies give a talk and slide show entitled ‘Women as spies’.

Created in 1907, women entered the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY) to help rescue and give first aid to wounded soldiers and get them to hospital.

However, in 1940 Churchill set up a small part of FANY operatives who were trained in espionage work for the Special Operations Executive (SOE).

This group were quite separate to the Army of the day and worked tirelessly both behind enemy lines, passing information etc and decoding work at home.

They were formidable, courageous women, trained in small arms, civil defence and went to assist alongside resistance groups whenever asked to do so.

Many giving their lives to the cause. Twelve SOE’s died in concentration camps and many died at the hands of the Gestapo.

Women spies came from all around the world and were decorated for their service and outstanding courage from the UK and other countries.

They said they didn’t feel brave but it was something they could do. Hugh Davies, a guide at Bletchley Park, recommended a visit there as it has been restored to its wartime period.

Diary Events: March 17 – Group darts at Winnington Rec.

March 23 – Group Spring Meeting at Winsford Academy – Speaker Barbara Laughton March 23 – “A bride at 60”.

Next meeting – April 1 – Karen White gives a talk/demonstration on skin care.

Visitors welcome – please call 01606 75520 for details.