Women’s Institute: Andy Swinscoe, from Courtyard Cheese at Settle, was guest speaker at this month’s meeting of Glusburn and Cross Hills WI. Members were fascinated by the history of cheese, from Vikings and Romans to modern day artisan cheese makers. Several members are to attend the North Yorkshire annual meeting. Because of the problems with Skipton Town Hall, the venue is now Grassington Town Hall. Concern over the proposed closure of Ward 24 at Airedale Hospital was expressed and members added their signatures to the petition. Places have been booked for the national annual meeting to be held at the First Direct Arena in Leeds. The speaker next month is Pat Osborne on The Mysterious Life of Agatha Christie. The group meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at the Village Centre in Cross Hills.