In the WI calendar February is the month of change for it is when we hold our Annual Meeting and, apart from looking back at those things we have done over the last year and looking forward to what we will be doing in the future, we also elect our President for the coming year from amongst those members who are prepared to stand on the Committee.
This year’s meeting, held in Coulston whilst the Parish Hall in Edington is undergoing refurbishment, was no different and we reflected on the variety of outings, events and speakers that we had enjoyed over the year. Clare Brown reminded us all of where we had been, what we had learned, the causes we had supported and how we had celebrated our 80th birthday. Indeed, we managed to squeeze two celebratory events into the calendar with the highlight being our garden party, held on a gloriously warm summer’s evening in Stella and Edward Callaway’s beautiful garden. There are more celebrations to look forward to this year too as our Wiltshire Federation achieves its centenary so watch this space for further news of what is happening and when.
As there were two Committee members retiring – thank you to Clare and Meg – we were pleased to welcome Jan Billinge, Jane Drake and Sarah Girt to the team and following our election format, Liz Pike was duly voted in as President, in absentia, and we wish her well in steering our WI over the next year.
Our small rural membership is just a tiny part of the great national movement that began in Wales in 1915 and our aims remain very akin to those established all those years ago. We look to offer a wide range of activities, the chance to learn new skills and to campaign on issues that matter to us and our community. We are a friendly group and readily welcome visitors so if you would like to come and try us out then please do pop along to one of our meetings which are always held on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm.
March’s Meeting, again at Coulston Village Hall, will see Wafaa Powell demonstrate cooking her favourite Lebanese foods so do leave a little room for tasting her examples!