WINTERBOTHAM, Strachan and Playne WSP again but what's in a name?

History beckons and begs invites Look again for fresh insights.

Stroud International Textiles.

Sit for an exhibit that raises smiles Colour, our history, our golden star Fine points, almost seven from afar And the centre is in Bedford Street?

They say that's where all the ley lines meet Stroud scarlet for the dashing groom And all the horse guards that lifted the gloom It's a special red that's in suns light Looks splendid and so very bright.

They used to dry it out in the fields An image used within Stroud Shields Autumn is but a cusp away Nearing our valleys naming day Golden landscapes, golden views Brighten our hearts, hopes and news Golden leaves shimmers, rustles then falls Confetti-ing pathways and dry stone walls Golden stone and golden thatch A magical sight that is hard to match Golden wheat and barley that wave Speckled with cornflowers, full of poppies brave What was the shade of Dursley blue?

What was it asked for, by whom, for who?

Tennis ball yellow and snooker baize What other names from history blaze?

Vintage is in fashion 'tis very hot Come on WSP we want the lot We can make blankets, shawls and coats All three is a cape that swings and floats.

Real fleeces keep us snug and warm When seasons threaten another storm Stroud market is now famous world wide.

Help us colour Threadneedle Street with our pride Come tailors, designers, seamsters too Show the world what you can really do.

Jane Gadd Cainscross