A passion for pearls makes intriguing talk

The depressing heavy rain did not dampen the spirit of the South Rife autumn meeting hosted by Pagham Harbour WI, whose president Margaret Bennet gave a warm welcome.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Oct 2007, 12:43 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 17:42 BST

Retiring group chairman Gill Dart thanked everyone for their support throughout her two years in office and mentioned the successful social events that had taken place during that time.

Executive and advisor Hazel Tester announced forthcoming events, such as the weekend at Denman College fashion show at Henfield, Day of Delights at Lancing and there was a request for more singers to join the choir for carols at Chichester Cathedral in December. Chris Potter, merchandising officer, had brought a table full of goods from North Lodge for the sales table. She also issued a reminder of the Ice Show at Brighton.

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Pearls Through the Ages was the title of the talk by Marion Bruce. A nurse and midwife by profession, she took up collecting pearls as a hobby which turned into a passion and obsession. Until about 1920 pearls had been natural, but then came the freshwater and sea water manufactured pearls, mussels being used in fresh and oysters in sea water. Whatever shape being inserted into the mussel or oyster governed the final shape of the pearl and once seeded, the size depended on the length of time it is left '“ anything from one to six years, 20 per cent being good and only five per cent excellent. Marion had brought a good selection of necklaces and bracelets to try on.

After a break for tea Gill Dart had everyone puzzling for the answers to a musical quiz which was won by Hazel Tester.

The competition for three cards for a pearl wedding was won by North Bersted Village with Pagham Harbour second.

An invite to the spring group meeting in March was announced by Ann Ranger on behalf of Aldwick Village to be held at St Ninians, the proposed speaker, Mrs Wendy Stuart on housekeeping in Borneo.