That’s what I find myself saying as I enter the various church halls, community halls and meeting venues throughout the area. Recently, I’ve really been around, as they say. I’ve arrived to apparently deserted halls in the middle of nowhere only to find large gatherings of lively ladies all chatting away and ready to listen to their bemused speaker. Larger gatherings in prestigious locations seem peopled by the same sorts of ladies.

The world of ladies’ clubs and associations seems huge; infinitely varied and yet with so much good will, friendliness and old fashioned charm. Hospitality seems a common denominator and refreshments are always on offer. The catering can linger in the memory for a long time. Who could forget the lemon cream sponge at Westfield SWI or the delicious lunch at the Royal Scots Club?

I don’t know whether I prefer larger gatherings with people sitting in serried rows or smaller groups sitting in a semi-circle around me. It’s perhaps easier for audience members to speak out at the smaller events but, even with audiences of 100+, there are people brave enough to ask interesting questions or share fascinating reminiscences. I’ve learned so much in this way.

These talks are genuinely a two way thing for me. I can only hope that people enjoy the talks as much as I enjoy going around carrying them out.