THE first of our ‘knit and natter’ afternoons was enjoyed outside in the sunshine. 100 squares is the aim as part of our display, celebrating the WI Centenary, at the Party in the Park on September 13. Afterwards these will be sent to a charity in Africa where they are made up into blankets for children suffering from Aids.

The next knit is arranged for July 15. Members were thanked for their contributions to the teas at the Open Gardens weekend and a rota for help and cakes was sent round, this time for the WI teas at Party in the Park. Diaries and calendar orders were taken for 2016 and arrangements made for the coach outing to Bath Christmas Market in November.

Two very different things were on offer at the meeting. Helen Chidgey of Tropic Skincare talked about the company which was founded by Susan Ma aged 13, starting in her mother’s kitchen making handmade cosmetics using natural ingredients, which were sold in jam jars on Grenwich Market. After coming third on The Apprentice, Lord Sugar was interested after the programme, and now has a part share involvement in the business. The products are vegan, contain no animal testing, and no chemicals as pure plant extracts are used. The products are by direct selling at ‘Pamper Parties’. Charlotte Foskett volunteered to be pampered and the results were very pleasing. Samples of the cosmetics were passed round for all to try. Helen was thanked by Elizabeth Puddick.

After the usual delicious tea members were well and truly ‘swished’ trying on and getting a bargain or two from the ‘swishing’ clothes rail where donated items of clothing were given for WI funds.

Our delegate Mary Osborne gave her report on the AGM at the Albert Hall in the presence of WI members, The Queen, Princess Anne and Countess of Wessex. Despite a long discussion with an amendment thrown in to the resolution concerning long term care assessment was dismissed. The speakers including historian Lucy Worsley and Baroness Grey Thompson, were excellent, the winning choir was wonderful and Mary had felt very proud to be representing our WI at such an auspicious event.

September 2, speaker is Richard Kendrick talking about his experiences as a Film Caterer. Teas: Elizabeth Puddick, Nicole Newton and Sue Peace. Raffle.

Competition: Prettiest Tea Pot. Nominations for committee.

MARY HARRISON