HALL MEETING - The committee of Skenfrith Parish Hall held its annual meeting recently and were delighted to welcome two new members onto the committee, Jo Martin and Hywel Jones. It was also good to see Ambrose Mason, the new Rector, present at the meeting and taking a great interest in the hall. Prior to the election of officers, the chairman gave his report and the treasurer gave his. Alan Jones is both chairman and treasurer. The year had gone well, with lettings up. The financial report was extremely satisfactory and the committee, during the year, gave substantial amounts to good causes. Alan was asked to carry on with his two jobs on the committee and this he agreed to do. He had already prepared a preliminary budget for the year 2004. With the annual meeting over for another year, a brief committee meeting was held to consider forthcoming events. These include the Supper Club on Saturday and the pilot scheme for the rural Cinema in the village hall, when the film Chocolat will be shown. This is on Saturday, February 28, at 6pm.

CROSS ASH WI - At the last meeting of Cross Ash WI, the speaker was Susan Amos, a Cross Ash member. She told of her experiences living in Afghanistan with four young children. They were there for about two years during the 1970s and they had a house with a marble floor. On arrival at the meeting members found small items on their chairs. When Susan started her talk these items were soon explained. They all had a story to tell and a part to play in the life of Susan's family whilst in Afghanistan. There were small silver pots, thimbles, polished tiles, a T-shirt worn by Susan' son when a small boy and a rather primitive wooden toy. As well as showing these treasures, Susan also showed several slides. It was a fascinating talk, much enjoyed by all the members. Afterwards, it was time for tea. This was the first meeting of the year and everyone had brought lots of lovely food. The table was laden, it really was a feast. There was also an excellent raffle with a tray full of prizes. It was a lovely start to the year.