THE July meeting was held on a beautiful day and we are hoping for that sort of weather when we cruise the River Hamble on our annual outing in August.

There are other events taking place next month including visits to Bletchley Park and Wilton House and a willow weaving course.

Our speaker was Russell Ferret from the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service. He brought along the specially designed protective clothing and equipment worn by the firefighters. To our delight Robbie volunteered to model the ‘outfit’, including hauling the very heavy breathing apparatus on to her back.

After Russell recounted many incidents he and his crew had dealt with, we realised how much planning and forethought goes into answering each emergency call, and how dangerous and unpredictable are the situations in which the crews find themselves.

Judging by the questions that followed it was clear we all found the talk interesting and certainly learned a great deal about the fire service and those who work in it.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 10 at 2.15pm at Morgan’s Vale and Woodfalls Hall. This will be our 98th birthday meeting and Isobel Acott, federation chairman, will be joining us as well as guests from other WIs. The speaker will be Dr Francis Burroughes on The Wonderful World of Bristol Blue Glass.