The Christmas break did nothing to deter the enthusiasm of Lutterworth Speakers Club for taking part in this year’s Club Speech Competition in January. The winner goes forward to the Area round, the Area winner to the District round and the District winner to the National Final – frightening prospect or exciting challenge, depending on your point of view!

Eileen Fox won this year with a speech entitled ‘My Birthday Surprise’ – which came in the form of a ready-to-charge bull elephant in a game reserve in South Africa. Her vivid description of a fleet of Land Rovers judiciously backing away from this enormous animal helped win the day.

Allan Heggs was runner-up with his speech recalling the lost art of letter-writing, particularly love letters emblazoned with acronyms such as SWALK (Sealed With A Loving Kiss) being impatiently awaited by the lovesick object of affection. Perhaps he was recalling his younger days.

The Flying Scotsman, climate change and the impact of invasive species were the subjects of speeches by David Hanger, Edward Taylor and Maggie Barlow. We range far and wide – almost nothing is out of bounds, not even public toilets!

We welcome new members and guests and meet 1st & 3rd Mondays of the month, September – May at the Greyhound Inn, Lutterworth, 7.30 – 9.30pm. Drop in or call Maggie Barlow on 01455 207774 for more information.