“A BRIMFUL of Nonsense” was title of the talk by Mrs Rose Channin for the March Meeting of Shobrooke Friendly Club.

Now, no-one had much of an idea as to what this was going to be about, but the title sounded promisingly amusing, and it was.

In the absence of the Chairman, Mrs Channin was introduced by the Secretary, Eileen James. To start with, Rose donned an old fashioned wrap around apron, or “apern” as she called it, and went on to explain how very useful a garment it was.

For doing a spot of dusting when unexpected visitors called, wiping hands and for carrying things in, and even for young children to hide in the folds if shy.

As an item for dusting was mentioned, she then went into a very funny dialogue about the pros and cons of dusting, and explaining why it was such a waste of time, as it only settled back down again.

Several more amusing dialogues and poems followed, concerning how much younger policemen and other persons in the professions appeared to be than in previous years. This was followed by a tale of a young chap who had trouble finding a girlfriend because his father “had a bike”, as they all seemed to be his half sisters.

Just about the last of Rose’s stories had the Members in stitches. This concerned a poor widow who came across a witch and was granted three wishes. She wished for a better house, to be young and beautiful again, and lastly, for her pet cat, recently deceased, to be brought back to life again in the form of a handsome young man.

All three wishes were duly granted, to which the cat replied, “That it was his one regret, that she had taken him to the vet”.

The characters of the witch and the widow were well-played out by club members Ann Huxtable and June Hill. Well done to them for being such good sports. A word making game also involved members participation.

Rose was thanked by Norman Gale for giving the Club such an entertaining afternoon. Then followed the usual tea and biscuits served by Clifford and Dave.

Margaret took the names of those who expressed an interest on going on the Club’s next outing on May 15 to Buckfast Abbey and Paignton. If anyone else wishes to go, please contact Margaret Gale on 01363 773282. There is a £5 deposit per person payable on booking.

The next meeting will be held on April 17 and speaker will be Mark Bolt of the Crediton Fire Service on “Fire Safety In The Home”.

On July 17 the Club is organising another outing, this time to Tavistock and another venue which is yet to be decided. Again please contact Margaret as above.

As with both outings, the actual cost of the fare will depend on the number wishing to go.

Norman Gale.