THE January meeting of Boothsmere WI was well attended.

Chris Cameron wished everyone a happy new year and thanked all those involved for helping to make the pantomime-themed Christmas party such a success.

Members were asked to nominate new charities for the coming year.

Individual entries are being sought for the Cheshire Show; a small group has been formed to teach canvas work.

Thanks for donations to Water Aid and Buxton Mountain Rescue Service have been received. A fund-raising coffee morning and bring and buy sale has been arranged for February 17. David Seekers, former museum director of Quarry Bank Mill, will be the speaker at the Literary Lunch on the March 27.

Members were treated to an evening of ‘Scent and Sensuality’. Peter Murray, owner of Knutsford’s Pulse of Perfumery, regaled with entertaining memories of his career with ladies’ lingerie company, La Perla, and vintage items of lingerie, including a crystal encrusted bustier and metal bra.

Following 25 years at La Perla, Peter began to market perfumes and opened his shop two years ago. He specialises in a personal service and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the making of perfumes. Members learned about Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria’s favourite perfumes.

The raffle was won by Allison Grey who received a bottle of perfume favoured by Grace Kelly. The wonderful evening provided a welcome touch of glamour on a wet winter’s night.

The next meeting is on February 10 at 7.30pm in Marthall Village Hall. Caroline Sherwin’s is the speaker with her talk entitled ‘Historic Knutsford’s People and Places’.

Diane Downs