On 21 November we had an opportunity to see Chatsworth decorated in great splendour to celebrate Christmas. The house itself celebrated places important in the history of the Cavendish family, beautifully dressed Christmas trees were to be found in every room and the Christmas market offered gifts and refreshments to suit all tastes. A splendid way to get into the mood for the festive season to come.

This year’s Charter Dinner, celebrating our Club’s eighty first birthday, was marked by a new venture. One of our aims as Soroptimists is to promote and celebrate the achievements of women and girls across the world. Earlier this year we launched our Young Achiever Award. Here is President Carole announcing the name of the winner – Ellie Gillies. We offer Ellie, and the runners up, our warm congratulations; we were so very impressed by the high standard achieved by every entrant for the award, and wish them well in their future careers. The Mayor, Councillor Hilary Fairclough, presented the Trophy to Ellie. President Carole clearly enjoyed being serenaded by the Phoenix Knights of Harmony who provided our after dinner entertainment.