LIFE as a member of the WI is definitely varied. Since last I wrote two members have been on a course to learn crochet; two on a tour of the archives at The Hive; four took part in the county quiz, they didn’t win but had fun; seven to a talk about Mary Quant, thank you Fladbury for a great evening and yummy food; no less than 30 to Pershore Bowls club for an evening of sport and chatter and by the time you read this 5 of us will have been to Peopleton for a talk about chocolate. Oh come on we just want a taste really.

I’m still hoping for more information on the early days of our institute so rack your brains and clear out those cupboards. Maybe you know someone who used to belong and could also help. I’ve had some photos from the daughters of Betty Waterman. Sheila Smith is doing the detective work on these to identify people and dates. If anyone has photos, old programmes or a memory to share please contact me on 01386 860521.

What’s next? Tuesday, April 14 our speaker will be John Butterworth MBE, his subject “Famous Hotel Guests”. Could be some fun stories. The competition is Photo – Famous People. Now do be careful here we mean one you have taken or one of you with someone famous so no cutting pics from the magazines and no trying to Photoshop yourself in a clinch with George Clooney. There will also be more information on the Buckingham Palace Garden Party in June. One member from each institute in the country will be going to this special centenary celebration with The Duchess of Cornwall.

Plans are well underway for our own centenary event in September. Spread the word as it is for the whole community. Ooh nearly forgot Barbara Pharo is organising the teas for Charlton Summer Fayre on June 20. Volunteers, donations both needed.

If you are interested in joining or just want to come along to one or two meetings contact the secretary on 01386 860617.

DIANE BARLOW