It is with deep regret that I have to inform you that John Sanders, founding Chairman of The Friends, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday 10th January 2012. John was 77 on the 27th December 2011. He leaves his widow Eileen, daughter, Clare and son, Richard. John will be sadly missed by all the Friends and his many colleagues in the legal profession, cricketing and rugby world, and of course - the glass world. I will let you know the date and time of the funeral at the earliest, should you wish to attend. Barbara P. Beadman

You are cordially invited to the official launch of The Crystal Mile: Along the Stourbridge Canal a new DVD presented by Graham Fisher MBE in association with Martyn Barnbrook.

17:30 for 18:00 on Thursday 8th December 2011 at the Ruskin Centre, Wollaston Road, Amblecote, Stourbridge, DY8 4HE.

Light refreshments provided; special promotional offers available on the night

RSVP please: Graham Fisher, 01384 270020, 07885 786826, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Crystal Mile: Along the Stourbridge Canal is a presentation of 31 minutes duration that offers an examination of the Stourbridge Glass Industry and other trades from the perspective of the canal that once served them. It is narrated by waterways specialist and glass enthusiast Graham Fisher MBE, and has been beautifully captured in full colour by the talented camerawork and skilful editing of Martyn Barnbrook of Streets Paved with Water Productions.

Sally Haden amazed the audience of Friends with her depth of investigation and knowledge, having trawled many archives personal papers and making contacts with other researchers on a world wide basis. During her talk, Sally showed a picture of the Glass Cone built in Japan, designed by an English architect and built with English expertise. The picture was not unlike The Dial Glass Works, as it is now, or possibly leaning towards the pagoda look which according to Michael Palin originated in Nepal. All will be revealed in Cameo as Sally has agreed to put an article together based on her talk. Footnote: Sally says that none of us has an excuse not to know more about our forebears, thanks to the internet.

The raffle prizes were won by Alan Brett, Peter Beebe and Clive Manison. At this point our Hon.

Sec. Allister Malcolm was rescued from 'talking shop' to receive, in his additional role as Trustee of The British Glass Foundation, a cheque from The Friends to the value of £1000. (Ref: AGM September 17th 2011).

We then went to The Mount Pleasant for lunch, returning to look at the Museum's exhibits both new and familiar. We finally left the Museum at 3.55p.m. to allow the staff to close for the day.