This picture of the disastrous fire at Weston-super-Mare pier was taken by Peter Watson, our newsletter editor, at 10.00 am on Monday, 28th July, only three hours after the fire started. It is remarkable that this much-loved feature of our town was destroyed in such a short space of time. We all hope that it will not be too long before it is rebuilt and that we who live in Weston and all our visitors will once again be able to enjoy all that it has offered us in the past.

Shirley James has provided us with the following report on Keith Anderson's "Word & Wit event that was obviously much appreciated by all those who took part in it.

WORD AND WIT

On 16th May we were treated to another Word and Wit Speaking Contest held in the lovely old Mayor's Parlour in Weston Town Hall and a most enjoyable time it was.

We listened to amusing poems and limericks from Stan Radcliffe - delivered in his usual witty manner - followed by a personal assessment of the Art Appreciation Group by Bernard Openshaw which gave a real insight into the subject.

Eight Speakers told us who their heroes were and the judges chose five to talk further about their ideal holiday. All the subjects were fascinating and the three worthy winners were then presented with quite impessive awards.

Three members of the book club read extracts from three different books ( spanning 100 years in time ) on a theme of ' the visit '. These certainly illustrated changing times!

Keith Anderson gave a great rendering of ' Brahn Boots ' and William Paton delighted us with his harmonica playing throughout the afternoon.

Looking forward to next year's Word and Wit a limerick came to mind -

One fine spring day
In the month of May
Was Word and Wit
Oh what a hit !
Long may it stay