Somerset Federation AGM

Meeting held on 25th October 2008 at Wellsprings, Taunton. Interesting speakers. Fred Dibnah's wife was very entertaining. She had his accent of to a T. - busy, busy day! Thanks for help from Kath, Margaret and Sue helping to clear ACWW table at the end of the day.

October WI Meeting

Welcome to our new member Wendy. Interesting talk by Kath and John on S Africa with slides. Ruth read her two poems 1. on Wincanton with addendum about joining the committee 2. the Craft Day and she felt her inability to get to grips with it (but she'll come again as it was a good social day) - as usual they were very much appreciated. Eileen read out some internet jokes (lowering the tone a bit) nevertheless they engendered lots of laughter. Nominations were collected for committee.

International Day of Rural Women

Well its all done and dusted. In general the day went well. Binegar WI members attended and I think enjoyed the day. I have yet to hear what they thought!!! (Ruth wrote a funny poem afterwards - but she has agreed to come on committee!!)

1st. picture:Thelma, County Chair, Somerset ACWW Rep,

Ursula, Anphia and Maria.

2nd picture: All our visitors enjoying a cup of coffee.

3rd picture: Members of Binegar WI.

The speakers were excellent. We were joined by Dato Ursula Goh, World President from Sarawak, Malaysia, May Kidd and Elsie Brown from Scoltland, Anphia Grobler from South Africa, Maria Zagorski from Bulgaria and Rose Rajbansee and her friend Yolande from Trinidad and Tobago. A truly international day. Letters of thanks have been pouring in from Scotland, Surrey, Hampshire, Gwent and lots of WIs who appreciated the opportunity to attend a gathering of so many women from such a variety of different countries to celebrate together and learn lots more about ACWW from those who have travelled to monitor projects in third world countries. Some of their experiences were truly humbling!!! Keep collecting those COINS for FRIENDSHIP!! (Thanks to Sylvia Reed for pictures 1 and 2.)

N Mendip Craft Day

1. Members from Litton and Hinton Blewitt collecting beads spilt after the comment - (this will keep you out of mischief!!). Tutor, Glenis, was busy showing how to complete a Christmas tree hanging. 2. Binegar members very busy!!! It was very intricate work. A very enjoyable day.

ACWW Wincanton Lunch

This will be held at Wincanton Race Course on 15th October. 17 members of Binegar WI have booked tickets. The World President, Deputy World President and other members of ACWW committees will be attending to celebrate the UN International Day of Rural Women.

Craft Day at Binegar Hall

This event has been organised by Glenys helped by Iris. It will be held on Tuesday, 14th October.

North Mendip Group Quiz

One Binegar team pleased with their prize of chocolate after the quiz - it's sometimes good to be last!!!

Everyone enjoyed the Fish & Chips - even tho' the quiz was a bit of a stinker!!!

I blame the retiring Group Secretary myself!!!!

However Ruth, Molly, Judy and Frances enjoyed their chocolate! 4 retiring officers were presented by Chris Briscoe (representing the group) with cards and either lovely flowers, a wooden tub of pansies, an orchid or flowers in a basket. They were all thrilled with their surprise gift. Eileen gave thanks to the group at the time and also before the close of the meeting for all their gifts. When she got home she had a further surprise, on opening her card, she found she can also go shopping with a gift of money - hurrah - shops watch out!!!! Thanks to all the WIs in N Mendip for your generosity and to Chris for ordering the fish and chips and arranging the hall. Ashwick & Oakhill won the cup (again!!) well done to them. Further group officers are still required - please volunteer - contact Colette if you are interested.

Thanks also to Colette and Kath for collating the results.

Poorly Members

Moira has hurt her back, Ann Jones is in hospital with a heart attack - best wishes to them both.

Bell ringing by Jo and Betty

Jo waits for her turn. She did complete the ringing but my picture of her was too fuzzy - sorry Jo perhaps another time!!!

The bells sounded wonderful as the bridal party left the church - well done both of you.













Betty has been ringing for a long time - she introduced Jo to the team at Ashwick.