PONTHIR WI: Mrs Jean Wiltshire, president, welcomed all to the meeting at Ponthir Village Hall. She asked if members had received the first WI Life, a new magazine which will be posted to every WI member as part of their subscription.

The usual business took place; Mrs Agnes Heath, secretary, read the minutes, correspondence and the County Letter, and reminded everyone of important some dates, namely the quiz evening at Usk and the half-yearly county meeting on April 25, at County Hall, Cwmbran.

She also mentioned the special WI archives will be on show at Newport Museum from February 3 until March 31, portraying the history of the WI movement - well worth a visit for all, including friends.

Mrs Alison Burnett, a member of County Executive and representative of the association Country Women Of The World, gave a most interesting talk, illustrated by slides of the work, where she has had the honour of working with such a wonderful cause, helping unfortunate women in many countries.

Mrs Margaret Jones, one of our own members, also gave a brief talk, as she had accompanied Alison and other WI members to visit and learn about the European Parliament in Brussels.

On another occasion they spent an interesting few days in Vienna, where members were invited to sit in' on a CWW meeting and were able to learn of the work that is achieved by this organisation, bringing water to such countries affected by drought, or helping women to plant and grow food, or even look after sheep on their small allotments, which helps them in providing for their families.

Both speakers were presented with a bouquet of flowers and thanked by our president, Mrs Jean Wiltshire.

Alison and Margaret kindly judged the competition, the oldest coin, and awarded Mrs Joyce Drew with first prize. There was a varied collection of coins spanning hundreds of years.

Mrs Helena Thomas won the raffle. Light refreshments were served by Mrs Mary Evans and Mrs Irene Lau, who acted as hostesses.

Members were encouraged to attend the next meeting on Monday, March 5, at 7.15pm, at Ponthir Village Hall, and to bring a friend.

by Nancy Davies