SYFWI Visit to Sheffields' Botanical Gardens

Pat and Mary had a great day along with approximately 50 other WI members from the federation, enjoying a guided tour of Sheffields' recently refurbished Botanical gardens.

Well worth a visit.

International Day - India

Jayne, Jean, Pat, Mary and Peggy enjoyed a full day of information and entertainment as part of the SYFWI's International Day on India.

After a welcome coffee and 'shop' at the WI stall a presentation by j.a.k.silks showed how two enterprising ladies decided to set up a successful business selling scarves following a 'backpacking' holiday to India.  They really were beautiful and good value.

Mary with speakers Avril and Joy

The second speaker was Sunita Llandra who entertained us with stories of a mixed-marriage and how she overcame prejudice from both sides of her family.  She really was inspirational.

After a wonderful Indian Curry with all the trimmings for lunch we were then treated to a display of authentic Indian Dancing from Vrata Chigateri - who explained clearly what all the facial, hand and foot expressions meant.  She had us enthralled.

It really was a good day - well done to the Federation Organisers.

I wonder where we'll be going next year!!

Spring Fayre

Well done to all WI members who helped make the Thorpe Hesley Spring Fayre such a success -

- from Ann Marson on the organising committee,  Sheila, Carol and Ann Beckett on refreshments,

Pat Shaw on Tombola, Jean on the RAFA stall,  Jayne and Pat D Shaw maypole dancing and all other members who supported by spending their money!

A great community event.

Get well soon Ruth

All members wish a speedy 'get well' to our dear friend Ruth Brown who is unfortunately in hospital.

Cheers Ruth! Love from all your WI friends.

May Meeting - Resolutions and Treats - presentation by Michael Fowler

With Mary visiting family in Holland it was left to Jean to welcome us all to what proved to be a really good evening.  Local author Michael Fowler entertained us with stories of life as a 'cop' in the South Yorkshire area and how he used all his experiences to enrich his second career as an author of Crime novels.

Michael started by reading a passage from his first novel 'Heart of the Demon' which soon had us entranced.  His love of reading was inspired by his primary school teacher reading Enid Blyton to his class on Friday afternoons and then by regular visits to his local library throughout his time at secondary school.

After an enjoyable and distinguished Police career Michael was then able to pick up his pen to write and also his paintbrush in 'retirement' and is thoroughly enjoying his second 'career'.

A lively question and answer session followed his presentation when members could buy books and get them signed.

Members engrossed in Michael's storytelling

May's birthday girls with Michael

We then enjoyed refreshments and had time to discuss WI resolutions before voting.

Tea ladies - Sue and Rita

An excellent meeting!

Don't forget bottles for the Rockley Rally at our next meeting.