Regretfully...

We have had to take the decision to cancel the Garden Party next Thursday. Our hosts, Kit and Keith Turner inform us that the field, which was to be used as a car park, is under water as a result of the torrential rain today and, even if it drains, it is unlikely to be dry enough to withstand the pressure of cars. In view of the weather forecast for next week - not good - and the preparations which would have been needed during the next few days, we think it is best to make the decision now.

I'm really sorry about this and thank Glenda and the Home Economics Committee for all the hard work and careful preparation which they put into the event. I also send my thanks to Ashleworth WI who were to have prepared and served tea this year - I hope that the team will keep all their plans together so that we can enjoy the benefit of their talents at another occasion shortly.

Phone calls will be made on Monday to WIs who had booked tickets to the event, and of course, a full refund will be given.

As I drove home from Gloucester this morning, taking several detours to avoid floodwater, I thought of our members in Longlevens, in Tewkesbury and other areas of the county likely to be under water and realise that many of you may be facing more serious problems than a cancelled garden party. I hope that the weekend will bring some relief from this terrible rain and that no further damage will be done. We are thinking of you all.