"SCRAPBOOKING" was the subject of a most interesting talk given by Lynette Ingram to members of Oakley and Deane WI at their January meeting.

After explaining a little about the history of scrapbooking which dates back in some form or other to the 15th century and how she became interested, or as she said obsessed with this, she showed some of the scrapbooks which she had produced. Some of these were for special occasions such as an 80th birthday, a golden wedding anniversary and a 100th birthday, which were so much appreciated and enjoyed by the recipients and gave her much pleasure in preparing and researching albeit very time consuming.

There are many things to consider when producing a scrapbook such as trying to match colour schemes to the various photographs and artefacts to be included and obviously using the best photographs possible which these days can often be enhanced digitally, particularly the old ones, or cropped according to the layout preferred. It was a very inspirational talk so we may see scrapbooks produced by many members in the future.

Discussion was held regarding the proposed resolutions for this year and it was decided that support would be given for the one that urges Her Majesty’s Government to legislate against the sale and release of sky (Chinese) lanterns and the mass release of balloons because of the damage that can be done to animals, crops and property. Details were given of some of the forthcoming events including a lunch at BCOT, the spring council meeting in Portsmouth, at which Libby Purvis will be the guest speaker and a coach trip to visit the Olympic sites being arranged by the Federation. During the evening there was also a very successful bring-and-buy sale.

At the February meeting, Gina Ireland will be talking about "Females in Prison" and there will be a competition entitled “Where in Oakley” so many members may be spotted around the village with their cameras photographing items/places from unusual angles! The meeting will be at the usual venue of Andover Road Village Hall on the second Tuesday of the month from 7.30pm to 9.45pm. Visitors will be most welcome.