FEBRUARY 2001 Michael Tod was the speaker at the January meeting. He gave a brief synopsis of his early childhood in Dorset where his family had a boat building business in Weymouth. They then moved to farm in the Black Mountains area near Abergavenny. What freedom he had to roam at the seaside and in the country at an early age! It brought it home to many how we all enjoyed this freedom to roam to a much greater extent than today's children. Mr Tod then gave us fascinating readings of his writings about Cwm Cadno, about the surrounding wildlife and of the adventures of young Michael. In adult life he first became a book binder. His deep love of wild places and of wild creatures continued in Wales, England and Africa, and he has written several novels including Dolphin Song and The Dorset Squirrels. A deep philosophical approach to all his subjects came across very strongly. Hiraeth, reflected in the Curlew's Cry (the title of his book of poems ) probably brought him back to Wales. Mr Tod finished by reading his latest poem Joseph's Child. During the business part of the meeting, transport arrangements were made for our visit to Newport Police Station. The County newsletter was perused and note made of all the coming events, including a Service of Celebration of the 80th Anniversary of Gwent Federation of Womens' Institutes at St Marys' Church Abergavenny on 17th February. Forthcoming 'Attractions'! Feb. 13th: A Visit to Newport Main Police Station. Mar. 13th: Hearing Dogs for the Deaf