The Meeting on the 12^th July had, as it's speaker, Jean Hamilton-Ford representing the PDSA.   This organization was founded in 1917 by Maria Dickin, an animal welfare pioneer, who on a visit to the East End, was appalled by the suffering of animals whose owners could not afford to pay for veterinary services

The first PDSA Clinic was opened in a Whitechapel cellar, and four years later there were seven clinics treating some 40,000 animals a year. A Horse drawn caravan acted as a travelling dispensary, and was such a success that two years later there was a fleet of such vehicles serving communities throughout the UK. The first permanent Clinic opened in Salford in 1923 and was followed during the next year by 16 more.

In 1952 Enid Blyton, the famous children's writer became Queen of the Busy Bees Club, and so popular was she that over 20,000 new members joined in her first year.

The talk was very interesting and covered the years from the 1st World War until the present day.   The animals and birds who received awards for their bravery, mostly in wartime, were also mentioned.

Help, in the form of treatment, vaccination and micro chip, can be given to pet owners on income support/benefit by ringing 0800 731 2502 or from the PDSA website of http:www.pdsa.org.uk  The nearest Vets who are in this scheme are at Aldershot and Farnham.

Names are still being collected for the Mystery Tour on September 13^th, please contact Sandra.

The next Meeting will be on August 9^th when a Garden Party will be held in the grounds of the Legion, or if raining in the Barn.

New Members are very welcome.