MEETINGS

MEETINGS

Purton Evening WI purtonevewi.org.uk

On 21 December many ladies’ eyes were gazing hopefully at the skies in the hope that it wouldn't snow – or freeze or storm – or even rain hard. And despite the bad weather on other days, it was all right on the night!

The Women’s Institute can be serious, very serious indeed – ask Tony Blair! But when its members want to party, they can party for England. For the December meeting in the Silver Threads Hall, Purton, there was a meal prepared by Delicious Delights (organised by Katherine Young and readily recommended) with a choice of four items (beef, chicken, salmon and vegetarian) for the main course and three for pudding, plus coffee or tea – oh, did I not mention the welcoming sherry, too?

There were 50 members present, all intent on enjoying themselves, and with a generous raffle to boot. The attractive centrepieces made for each table were also raffled at the end of the meeting, in aid of funds. And, to prove it was not an entirely selfish evening, we signed a great card (literally) for Prospect and donated £100 to their funds. The entertainment was by Wessex Male Choir who gave a first class performance of the barbershop type of harmony. All this, within a short distance of home – no wonder we have a large membership, though with ample room for more.

On Wednesday 3 January a group of us went to see the pantomime at The Wyvern, great fun. This too was seamlessly organised from Purton Village Hall and back again, organised by former President Barbara Compton, to whom many thanks.

From this report you would think WI is quite a romp but in fact it also functions as a meeting place for serious thought and national improvement. We shall soon be voting on the National Resolution that we particularly support out of the seven given in the WI monthly magazine, Life. And that will be a sober, thoughtful time, but giving us a feeling of having a say on current affairs.

And now a reminder that the annual subscription of £31.50 is due. Actually, of course, this is an excellent time for new members to join!

Next month’s event on 15 February is entitled “Adam’s Art” with audience participation, sharing your own art/craft. (Oh, dear, does expertise solely in drawing a cork count?)

Meanwhile, if it is available to you, please don’t forget to use the website -purtonevewi.org.uk

CONSTANCE REED, tel 771571