THE group held its first 2008 meeting on Wednesday, January 9 when some members exchanged information on how and where they spent Christmas.

The results were very varied from spending the time with family; a hotel in Bournemouth; a cruise to Bilbao, and a Med Cruise.

The speaker was Neil Speight, Editor of the Thurrock Gazette, who gave an informal talk on his life in the media and the workings of the Thurrock Gazette.

The President advised members there are tickets available for the TV Studios - Last of the Summer Wine and Loose Women (April 14). Also tickets available for County Day in March at the Cliffs Pavilion (March 6), and the Spring Group meeting at Bulphan on April 9.

The next meeting is Tuesday, February 13 when the speaker will be hypnotherapist Kerry Wheeler.

Anyone interested in joining WI or coming along as a visitor should ring Ann on 07887 516565.