Summer is here. I hope you are all enjoying the long summer evenings.

At the last meeting we heard from Doreen Hough about her experiences of working with families of prisoners and how services have changed for the better over the years. It was all very interesting. Doreen is a MU member and does several talks on various topics.

In July David Winterbottom will be talking about his work as a NHS Dispatcher. A Dispatcher is the person you speak with when you dial 999 and they talk you through procedures, reassure you and calm you while the ambulance arrives. All sounds very interesting and challenging work. Visitors are welcome to join us.

Mothers’ Union have been invited to take Offertory on Sunday 30th July.

Tuesday 1st August is the Afternoon Tea in the Blackburn Hall from 1.30pm - 4.00pm with Chris Foote-Wood speaking (approx. 3.00pm) about his book Victoria Wood - Comedy Genius - her life and work. This is a fundraising event in aid of the MU ‘Summer of Hope’ appeal raising funds for families and communities around the world. Everyone welcome. Tickets are £4. Please ring me on 01204 884671 to book a place.

The Deanery Festival is on 2nd July at St Paul’s, Ramsbottom at 2.30pm. As mentioned previously it’s a new initiative to hold this service on a Sunday and also in the afternoon. Since the festival was held at our church last October we have displayed the deanery banner alongside our own banner in the side chapel. The deanery banner will be presented to St Paul’s at this service and held there till next year's festival.

The Archdeaconry Festival is to be held at St Margaret’s, Prestwich on Wednesday 9th August at 7.30pm. Mrs Canon Barbara Taylor will be preaching. Only the deanery banner required at this service.

Mrs Judith Hilton, secretary to Mothers’ Union at Church House, Manchester is to retire in July. A small donation has been made by all branches in the Manchester Diocese for a leaving gift in appreciation for her work.

For all who may be heading off on a Summer holiday I hope you have a lovely time and come back refreshed.

In love and friendship,

Susan Sugden
Branch Leader