IN spite of Marlow Townswomen's Guild resting during the month of August, we seem to have been very busy during that time.

We enjoyed a very successful trip to Longleat, and were blessed with a warm sunny day. A picnic at the Marlow Rugby Club was held mid August. This event celebrated 80 years of the Townswomen's movement and we were joined by several members from North Hants and Berkshire Federations. The deputy mayor of Marlow opened the proceedings.

There were many stalls, including a raffle and tombola, and we were serenaded throughout the proceedings by a local jazz band. In spite of the appalling weather several ladies donned macs and brollies and ate their picnics "al fresco". All in all a great day. We also enjoyed an afternoon tea hosted by our president - approximately 30 members attended.

Autumn is now here and our September meeting welcomed a very interesting speaker. She was Mrs Louise Reed in the guise of Emmaline Pankhurst. As the movement of the Townswomen's Guild evolved after the Suffragettes gave all women the vote, it was felt that this was a suitable topic.

Mrs Reed was excellent. She dressed the part and she outlined the ideals of the Suffragettes, their pitfalls, which included prison, and of course their victory. We were her audience of the 1900s.

October's meeting will have a speaker, Mrs Rita Beck, and she is to talk on "Cottage China". We can also look forward to a drama evening at the Red Cross, a play with supper, and a visit to Lambeth Palace.

As always all new members are welcome. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at Liston Hall at 7.30pm.