Ashton under Hill WI held its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 5 in the Village Hall. Despite a very wet evening thirty-five members attended. The meeting opened with a talk by member Christine Shaw of “Ashton’s”, who told us about starting up a new business and the experiences it had brought her. She and husband Richard had become increasingly tired of commuting to work in the West Midlands and “one Ofsted too many” for Christine led to a complete change of career for them both. They bought a fading nursery on the A46 and first set about tidying up and revamping the plant side. Their dream was to open a Farm Shop and Delicatessen and it was a major achievement when the building was completed and stocked with the high quality and locally produced food they now sell. Chris also runs a café which sells home made cakes and she brought along some delicious Bakewell tart for us to sample. We admired the confidence and enterprise which has gone into setting up the business. Ruth Clarkson gave the vote of thanks.

The Annual Meeting commenced with a short address from Sue White, an adviser from the Worcs Federation who talked about her own inspiration from the WI and how it had enabled her to make many friends. Treasurer Chris Powell reported on the financial position of Ashton WI which is very healthy. We have currently 48 members and had welcomed a number of visitors during the year which helps meet the expense of speakers. Secretary Judith Hunter gave a report on the previous year’s speakers and events. It had been another varied and busy year. The final occasion was the ‘Lunch with Michael Portillo’ at the Worcester Sixways Stadium which ten members had attended. He proved to be a fine speaker and most entertaining, and we felt lucky to have been placed on a table near the centre as there were 500 ladies present in total. President Marjy Facer thanked the committee, and everyone who helps in other ways, with refreshments, raffle, skittles.etc. She especially thanked Jen Creese who is retiring from the Committee and presented her with a large potted plant. Jen has held the offices of president and secretary and we have much appreciated the wise help and advice she gives especially to newcomers.

The Committee was re –elected and Jane Wilson was voted on as a new member. Marjy Facer was elected as president. Thank you to Sue White who conducted the ballot for us.

The evening concluded with the raffle draw, and refreshments were served by Sarah Lane and Carol Tyler.

JUDITH HUNTER

Ashton under Hill WI