2026 MEETING REVIEWS

JUNE.......

At our June meeting, Neil Barton a volunteer for the BCS gave an interesting and informative talk on the history of the Basingstoke Canal and how it has been transformed over the years for everyone to enjoy.

MAY.......

A very busy evening kicked off with our speaker Louise Daborn, a St John Ambulance First Aid Trainer talking on the topic of Bystanders can be Lifesavers. Louise talked us through what to do if someone has a cardiac arrest, demonstrating CPR on a dummy and how to use a defibrillator. After the demonstration it was agreed that we would all feel more confident in an emergency. This was followed by the judging of chocolate muffins for our Eileen Service Memorial plate baking competition. This was won by Helena Chalmers. We then looked at the two proposed resolutions for 2026 being Action on Women's Homelessness and a call for clean free Accessible Toilets. Members voted on each by a show of hands and both were passed by the majority.

APRIL .......

Our special 700th meeting took place in April and this was celebrated with a selection of refreshments reminiscent of foods available in the 1960's when St Johns was formed. There was a lot of discussion and shared memories and music from the 60's. We also had a quiz relating to questions through the decades which was very well received. It was a really fun evening and enjoyed by all.

MARCH .......

Our speaker for March was Jane Muddle who gave a very interesting talk on The Story behind the Bags and Hats of Madagascar and how she became interested in this topic. She brought along a great selection for everyone to view and try on. We also held a Bring and Buy Sale and the proceeds of this donated to the charity LinkAble. An enjoyable evening was had by all.

FEBRUARY .......

On a cold and wet night, Julie Paice led a craft activity 'Diamond Dotz' to make sparkly butterflies or hummingbirds. It was a lovely activity enjoyed by all with very positive feedback.

JANUARY .......

For our first meeting of 2026, Judy Nicholson led us in an enjoyable session of line dancing which warmed us all up on a particularly cold evening. It really tested our coordination and fitness and a great time was had by all.