Arlingham WI: Secretary’s Report

THIS year has been a very special one for the WI as we celebrated the 100th anniversary.

The WI baton travelled throughout the country and in March the Wheatenhurst group met at Whitminster village hall and travelled to Gloucester in a vintage bus to receive the baton from May Hill group.

After a photo call we made our way back to Whitminster, where we joined fellow members for afternoon tea.

The baton was passed around everyone before being whisked off to be handed over to the Painswick group.

Bronwen was our delegate at the AGM at the Royal Albert Hall and gave us a very interesting report on an enjoyable experience.

On a lovely, warm sunny day in June, we donned best frocks and hats to attend the county picnic at Highnam Court to celebrate the centenary of the WI Loud cheers went up as the County Chairman cut the beautifully decorated celebration cake.

Everyone was given a piece of cake and a glass of bubbly.

The event was well supported with eight of us attending.

In June we celebrated our 45th anniversary with a friendly skittles match at the Red Lion followed by a fish and chip supper.

This year it was our turn to visit our link WI, Newnham-on-Severn, one mile away as the crow flies but a 50 mile round trip by road.

We were warmly welcomed by friends old and new.

As we wined and dined, we were entertained by two guitarists; a very enjoyable time was had by all.

Jeanette has been globetrotting on the county holidays and is now planning the next holiday to Guernsey.

We entered a scrapbook competition in the county scrapbook competition, also a team in the Echo Challenge Quiz but unfortunately we did not win any prizes. Better luck next time!

We are now planning our Christmas dinner at the Red Lion and Santa’s sack will be passed around so that everyone will have a surprise gift to take home.

As we no longer send each other Christmas cards, a collection will be made in aid of cancer instead.

This year has been tinged with sadness as we have said goodbye to three former presidents.

Thank you all for your support throughout the year.

They say time goes by quickly when you are enjoying yourself but it flies by when you are busy.