The Royal British Legion Poppy appeal launch marks the start of our season of remembrance. The last post sounded and standards were lowered as a rain of poppies fell in front of the Guildhall. Poppies continued to fall during the two minute silence that followed.

This week also saw the 99^th anniversary of the Battle of Gheluvelt, when the gallant action of the Worcestershire Regiment changed the course of World War One. Canon Paul Tongue led the gathering in a service of remembrance for the local men and women who served and who continue to serve in our armed forces.

Worcester Swimming Club held its 17^th Annual Meet on Saturday. Lap times in the ”skins” races were fast and exciting. The “skins” is an elimination contest, with the last swimmer in each round dropping out. Contestants never know which stroke they will be required to swim in each round until it is drawn out of a bag. Families and friends roared them on from the gallery and there were some impressive Worcestershire victories.

Phil and I spent Wednesday with the Women’s Institute, who held their Annual Meeting at the Three Counties Showground. Contrary to the stereotype, the WI is a modern organisation that nevertheless honours its traditions. They began by singing Jerusalem and went on to an interesting review of the WI year. Celebrity speakers included Kate Bliss of Antiques Road Trip and author Jane Robinson, whose history of the WI, A Force to be Reckoned With, is currently on the book stands.