Despite it being one of the coldest nights of the year, the Skinners held its Games Night in Eric Parks conservatory and garage on 18th February.Nine Craftsmen were joined by the Deacon Convenor, Bill Black at what turned out to be a most enjoyable and friendly evening.

We held two competitions - darts and putting.John Leitch went on to win the darts competition. The challenge for several of us being to actually get all three darts to hit the boards, never mind get the last double! After a close competition, Deacon Convenor Bill won the putting competition. In order to decide our 'victor ludorum', John and Bill played another round of putting at which John was the eventual winner and so won the prize of a bottle of whisky.

Thanks to all who turned out to take part and our special thanks to the Deacon Convenor for joining us. Once again the Skinners are indebted to Eric for his generous hospitality - especially the hot pies and beans.

Each year the Incorporated Trades donate food hampers to people within the town. Each Trade is responsible for distributing three hampers to those it thinks is deserving of them.

This Christmas, the Skinners decided to donate their hampers to North Ayrshire Women's Aid, which is a local charitable organisation which supports women, children and young people who are experiencing domestic abuse.

We recently received a letter from the Administrator of the charity who writes, "Please accept our thanks for your recent donation of hampers for the Women, Children & Young People of North Ayrshire Women's Aid. This helped towards making their Christmas more enjoyable at this difficult time of the year. Your support is invaluable to us and we appreciate your consideration towards us."