On May 7, the ladies met at The Royal British Legion, Kingswinford, for its monthly meeting. Chairman, Sheila Evans welcomed all present including the speaker, Ruth Lowe.

Sadly, we were told one of our members, Pauline, is very poorly, so we wish her a speedy recovery.

Pam, secretary, read the minutes from the April meeting, and reported how local firms had responded to the recent burglary at The Legion by donating gifts of money and items.

Audrey, treasurer reported a healthy bank balance although some money was to be allocated elsewhere.

Ann reported that the trip to Liverpool on September10th would cost £11 and no more places are available. Val Thacker asked if the Ladies would support two fundraising events for the victims of the earthquake in Nepal.

Ruth Lowe, the speaker, gave us an enthusiastic and informative talk about the life of Mary Quant. She looked the part dressed in the famous black and white mini dress, complete with daisy logo and white boots. Mary is remembered for introducing the mini skirt but Ruth said that was not strictly accurate.

She opened the first boutique called “Bazaar” on the King’s Road in London. Mary loved buttons, the colour black, and introduced clothes made from materials with designs which did not compliment each other, i e stripes with check and spots with stripes, thus developing her own unique style. In her early years all materials were bought from Harrods and all clothes lined with silk. She introduced make up, including a range at M & S, nail varnish, underwear, shoes, tights, hats and even a Mini which Ruth owns. Mary Quant is now 81 and was made a Dame in 2015.Ruth brought a lovely selection of items from her own valuable collection.

The next meeting will be on June 4 at 7.45 pm, and anyone interested pop along and you will be made most welcome.