CHAIRMAN of Crediton Townswomen's Guild, Pat Uren, welcomed members to the September meeting after the summer break.

The speaker, Mr Chris Henley from Devon County Council, was then introduced. He gave a talk - with slides - on Devon Roads and Verges.

He explained that apart from Yorkshire, Devon had the longest network of roads to be maintained in the UK.

One of the greatest damages done to roads was by water from hedges and flooding. The water seeped underneath the surface. Some grass verges and hedges were kept in order by the council, others were the responsibility of the landowners.

All repairs were very costly he said.

Thanks from the Guild were expressed by Enid Keast.

A break for tea followed and the business continued.

There had been no meeting in August but Betty Pollard invited members for a cream tea and social afternoon.

The weather was wet, so we had to stay indoors. Thanks to Betty and her helpers for a very happy afternoon.

The Arts and Crafts group will soon meet to start filling the shoeboxes for the Christmas appeal.

The painting group is still busy and the coffee mornings continue.

Final arrangements were made for the residential school in November. Birthday cards were presented to three members.

The competition, for a bird ornament, was won by Beryl Robinson.

The next Guild meeting will be on October 6. The speaker will be Alan Quick, Editorial Manager of the Crediton Country Courier, who will give a talk on "chasing the news".

The competition will be for a family photo.

All visitors are welcome.