Hello all,

Firstly, on behalf of all of us, I want to wish Mary a wonderful time in Brazil over the next five weeks- I am thoroughly jealous! Well, its Helena doing Mary’s Blog over the next few weeks. Hope I don’t let her down!!

Wednesday 2^nd November 2011

I arrived at the club around 7.30pm after a slow drive in (seemed most of Manchester’s cars were out in force). Still, at least I only had to feed the meter for 30mins-I’m sure most of us are aggrieved about the parking charges, more from principle than actual cost. (Right, that’s my only and last bit of moaning!!!)

Gill Springay was back with us again selling some handbags as well as her makeover service. Unfortunately, our lighting situation was less than adequate (understatement!), making it difficult to see the wares. I can only thank you for coming and apologise again Gill and will try to ensure that, in future, our temporary lighting is a little more permanent.

It was lovely to meet Sheena and Lisa for the first time. They had been to Northern Concord some time ago, but it was their first time at Manchester concord. Welcome, and hope you come back to visit us again soon.

Vanessa complained that she seemed to be missed off when the camera was out, so here she is looking elegant as always.

A young student, nick-named Bambi from Manchester Metro joined us tonight as she was doing part of her thesis on gender issues. I’m sure everyone was very helpful in telling her their stories.

We haven’t seen Daniella for a while as she has had several post surgery complications, so it was lovely to see her looking happy and healthy again.

Frances was out ‘hard selling’ tickets for the Christmas dinner-they were going very well so, if you are planning to join us at Villagios for dinner at 8pm on 3^rd December, please reserve your place with us as numbers are limited, and at £22 per person it’s a steal. I don’t know about you, but I’m planning some serious partying after!!

Next week will be a normal club evening, so hope to see you then.

Helena xx