Final update

October / November / December

All meetings successful - the photo was not suitable for ACWW as not clear enough - several further attempts BUT the one inserted in the latest magazine was of Helen, Doreen and Angela planting our tree as this was clearer - this was very valid as all helped on the 1st August.  A crab apple tree was planted on The Batch as a Jubilee celebration with crocus and cyclamen in memory of Beryl Manders. - Thanks to Moira for the lovely photo which was also place in the Journal by Angela.

Colette Jeff WIA presided at the election in November - it was very exciting and finally the new president was elected - Chris Hartley - members were thrilled and Chris is still 'in shock' or so she said at the December party.

The December party was very good - good food, company and a very entertaining speaker.

Merry Christmas to all members.

Update Sept/Oct

Lunch Club very successful at 'The Poachers' I think that's what I heard - lovely meal anyway.

Committee held at Eileen's - good to see everyone again - but guess we talk too much at times!!   There was a lot to plan!   Another name for 2013 committee - so replacing 3 with 3 BUT will they be 'officers'?  Lovely bunch of flowers from Chris - gratefully received by Eileen.   Photo taken of 'tea-makers' in the kitchen -  to send to ACWW - to add to the report of 1st August.

September Meeting

Speaker - the Samaritans should be interesting.   Wasn't really looking forward to this talk - but it was very well done, thought provoking - not a job for many of us - but amazingly worthwhile.   The main credo being confidentiality - not an easy job - just 'listen, listen, listen' - how many of us could resist jumping in with a response!!

More names requested for committee - 3 going - 2 new names - amazing - on the way and a volunteer for President from our list of names - hurrah just got to find a secretary and treasurer - wow - fingers crossed.

Evening ended with a poem about Highclere - congrats to Ruth yet again - it was a marvellous day out.

Guiness Book WI record

Heh - what good news and it was fun - loved it!!

WI members knit their way into the record books

3,083 WI members knitted their way into the Guinness Book of World Records in May during the NFWI AGM at the Royal Albert Hall, London, by breaking the record for the most people knitting simultaneously for fifteen minutes to celebrate traditional craft skills.
The record attempt was undertaken with support from the Crafts Council and the UK Hand Knitting Association to commemorate the Crafts Club initiative, and saw members attending the AGM taking part in 15 minutes of dedicated knitting following a pattern promoted through the WI membership magazine WI Life. Members knitted individual loops that were joined together to form one long chain; representing the links formed by individual WI members throughout the UK. Click here to read Ruth Bond's comment about this tremendous feat.

This is what they did with some of the knitting - formed an anchor for this display.

What I want to know is - then what was it used for or did they just store the anchor for another event!!

September so far

Well September has been very varied - here are a few activities:   a few apologies for committee so meeting shorter than usual - heard that President/Secretary/Treasurer are giving up - whoops - WIA coming to oversee November meeting!!   Binegar need volunteers!!

Some members visited Oakhill Produce Show - saw A&O WI - spent lots on their stalls and won quite a few prizes!!  Weather OK as well - annual egg-throwing excellent success as usual.  Few entries but great - noticed Cranmore member Nicola made a fantastic felt handbag and a crown tea cosy for her Mum won a prize.

Other members helped make teas at the Binegar Playing Fields 'Teddy Bears Picnic' - marvellous photo in the Journal - Day went really well - congrats to the organisers.

Several members have tried out the film club in Wells  (so have Leigh on Mendip)  Angela and Eileen went to 'Anna Karenina' - - set in a theatre (?) fantastic - slightly weird but exotic presentation - very impressive - did Cynthia go to?  Really enjoyed it - well worth going.

Lunch Club were out too - very popular with many of our not so active members as well - this will thrive as long as there are enough drivers to get them there.

Big Walk, Little Splash - well some members have filled in their forms - BUT has everyone - Anne says it's not worth entering if we don't get 100% entry - this is probably highly unlikely but nevertheless walkers/swimmers have been busy - come on everyone!!

Eileen went to a 'Science meeting' in London at NFWI (hence apologies for committee as not home until after 9.00pm) - fascinating if not entirely what was expected - managed to call in for coffee and cup cake at 'The Hummingbird Cafe', South Kensington, - that was certainly fun - cake choice - red velvet - evidently their most popular!!  Coffee excellent - that and cupcake soon put paid to a fiver!!! - very enjoyable tho'.  Very trendy they have an catering van they take to shows and were recently at the Bristol Balloon Show and Bath Races!!  Brought hubby home some samples - but he thought the frosting was too thick!!  Personally I thought the ones I bought from Chewton Mendip once were better decorated - I still remember them fondly - a beautiful rose with scented shimmery petals - that was special!!   The bakery said it was made by a 'lady across the road' - very impressive!!

Binegar Committee

Meeting at 7.30pm at Anne's.   Usual productive meeting.

Lunch Club

A Chinese meal is the order of the day for the next Binegar Lunch outing - Jo is thrilled - what a lovely change (if you like Chinese food!!).  It seems many do by the list attending!!

Film Club on Friday 10th August

A Royal Affair  -   The Scandalous Royal Romance of Caroline Matilda and Johann Struensee  - 

"I would marry him I loved, and give up my throne and my country," Caroline Matilda, Queen of Denmark (1751-1775)

 Well Cynthia and Eileen went down on the bus (bus passes to the fore!) and arrived in plenty of time - this time we were joined by two ladies from Wookey Hole.
Some found the film very interesting and have since looked up Caroline Matilda on the web ........  BUT .... we found it too long - and judging by the look of the others who went - it was 'exhausting'!!      The length, sub-titles   .............  all agreed (even one of the organisers) it could have done with at least 20 mins cut out - BUT had a lot to recommend (well I enjoyed most of it!!).   Cynthia gave it a definite NO NO!!

Enjoyed lunch in the Good Earth while  we regained our 'sanity'!!   A wander around Wells small shops and then the bus home - an epic outing!!

NB:   In September - club will be available weekly - gives plenty of choice of films - wonder how this will effect further membership - have written news to all who originally enquired but have 'as yet' fallen by the wayside during the summer holidays!!

Highclere Castle Outing

Highclere in its park.

A frieze in the Egyption exhibition which was in the cellar - spooky - but fascinating - glad we toured this before lunch!

1.  Cynthia and Chris near the Monk's Garden.

2.  Highclere Castle above right.

3..  The Secret Garden - no rain at all - dull but delighted to do our walk in the dry.

4. On the way back to the coach - Pauline the organiser in the centre in white chatting to Ruth and Mary of Oakhill.   Pauline is President of Ashwick & Oakhill WI and a dual member of Binegar WI - good on you Pauline great day - great timings - fab tea!!              Great  outing to HIghclere Castle - did the castle / the Egyptian exhibition (Tutankhamen tomb discovered by Earl Carnarvon and Howard Carter in 1922-1923 - WOW!) and sauntered around the gardens.  We loved 'The Secret Garden'.  Good company with Chris, Cynthia, Ruth and Mary.  All followed by a fab tea at Marden WI - congrats to Pauline for arranging and inviting Binegar to join in.

!st August - ACWW / Iceland event

Well approx 80 people booked tickets but I think 75 came in the end because we had a few who were poorly.   We had ACWW Reps from Devon, Dorset, Wiltshire, Worcester, W. Midlands and Surrey and a lot of WI members from Somerset.   The speakers, Valerie Stevens, Kay Trippick spoke about Belarus,  Mary Andrews told us about the 2013 Triennial in  Chennai  India and Jackie about the 2016 Triennial in England sponsors W. Midlands Federation.   Our afternoon speaker was Bob Chaplow from Wantage an eminent geologist talking about his holiday in Iceland - luckily his wife was able to attend as well.     Day went well according to most attendees.  Money not counted yet but the result seems fairly positive.

Many thanks to our great team of helpers,  Ruth and Chris did sterling work all day in the kitchen,  Doreen took the money in the morning and worked in the kitchen in the afternoon,  Sue came down in the morning to help set up and helped in the kitchen in the afternoon.  Moira ran the stall all day, Hazel from Chewton helped in the kitchen and then did the raffle in the afternoon.  Kath kept busy where she could.  Molly did some washing up as well.  Helen arrived late but did her bit.   I hope I've mentioned everyone.  Anne will be busy sorting out our accounts.   So many stars who made the whole day possible.  There were some excellent helping husbands too;  Paul, Gethryn, Dave, Andrew - well done lads - you were marvellous those tables disappeared by magic (thanks to Paul and Gethryn for getting them out in the morning as well).   Thank goodness for the microphones what a bonus now some of our members are hard of hearing!

 Belarus Market plus map of Belarus  - note the position of Chernobyl - hence the majority of suffering from this meltdown were Belarussians.

Our afternoon speaker's subject was Iceland - map and costumes as above.

Wells Film Club opportunity

This was circulated to members who had signed up - paperwork taken around on walk around the village and a few 'out' of the village phoned.   Not sure what the result will be - BUT - it's another opportunity.

Ah! well - I went - hubby came too - and what happened we were the only ones there with U3A!!   The people who missed out were the ones who didn't come because it was an excellent film - here's to the next  opportunity.

July Meeting

Tonight was Members night - so very short on business.  Sherry on arrival - very civilised!    Kath still had outings lists on show tho' and there was a sales table, and raffle.   Doreen updated us on Parish Council comments re:  'our tree'.   Suggestions for small trees included an apple tree  (available to 'scrump' or if it was a cooker - Annette could make apple pies - this brought a chuckle) - several comments were forthcoming and other ideas were put in the Suggestion Box - matter referred to the committee.

The speaker planned cancelled the Friday before the meeting BUT we  luckily had a talk by a local Magistrate and learnt a lot more about the 'justice process'.    For starters I didn't realise or probably even think about it -  magistrates can claim for petrol but work as volunteers - well - cheers to our amazing Legal System - it just  makes you realise you how lucky we are in this country.   We were able to look at some actual cases and 'think how we would deal with them' and then learn what was the actual result - fascinating.

Hurrah then we were able to enjoy a delicious supper, wine, fruit juice or usual tea/coffee.   There was plenty of  'chatter' time - a really enjoyable meeting - thanks to 'members'.

Auctioneers Supper at Frome

Three members ventured into the wilds of East Somerset -  Angela, Ruth and Eileen.  Well, we found the venue at last - although our driver, having followed various vague signs around the outskirts of Frome was heard to remark, 'Where the bloody hell are we and how on earth do we get home?"' the route along all these identical dual carriageways was utterly confusing. 

However, good car park, inviting venue - all nicely laid up - saw many friends - looking good!!   Binegar were sharing with Evercreech WI.   After a good (filling) meal, delicious puds - two had yummy portions of pavlova, (mmm ...........  ) one a lovely chocolate torte - the fun started.  There was a raffle, of course, but the interesting thing was the various antiques on each table plus a table of 10 larger antiques and quiz sheets - you were invited to guess:  - Country of origin, description and suggest a price for each of these items.  Every table had two smaller items and the same info was supposed to be discussed on each table by members and two member nominated to speak - on our table Molly and Angela were 'volunteered'.

Richard Slater (auctioneer from Bath)  then took us through the 10 items asking for suggestions from anyone before 'putting us right' on Country, description, value of each and many surprises were forthcoming.  the winner of this section being Sali Money of Compton Dundon WI.   Then each table had a turn to 'value' their items  - well some were surprisingly accurate BUT Molly got the most laughs having described a parrot brooch as 'naff' costume jewellery her estimate £20 - turned out it was very collectable even in its present state of unsafe fastener and 'coloured glass' chips missing - real estimate £350.

The whole evening was a great success - good food, very friendly, fascinating - and I hate to say but I did tell Carole about Richard 2 years ago but it was worth the wait - Excellent fun.

Oh!  on the way home we followed another car - then turned through Frome and found home easily - much better route along familiar roads!  Those dual carriage ways are for 'foreigners' - hope they got home OK!!
Beware inclusion in a poem - we did laugh a lot!!     Angelar was off to a 'dinner, dance in Crickhowell' next day she and Alban have been learning ballroom dancing ready for their next cruise!!

Lunch Club / Speakers Auditions./ Auctioneers Supper

Not sure where they're going in July but I understand The Duke of Cumberland was much enjoyed last month.  They're real gadabouts - highlight of the month the Lunch Club.

Barbara from Leigh on Mendip WI, Ruth and Eileen went to Speakers Auditions at Westonzoyland - Moira joined them for the afternoon.  Everyone auditioning had 15 minutes to give us an insight into their talks -all good speakers in their own way - some especially good we thought.  Met Chris from Litton and Hinton Blewitt - later she emailed me copies of the speakers list because there were not enough available on the day.  An unexpectedly  huge crowd turned up (probably because of all this wet weather - but it turned out  lovely and sunny there - typically as we spent the day inside) and Colette plus Westonzoyland WI (cakes and drinks) had organised a marvellously varied day for us.

Ruth, Angela and Eileen going to Auctioneers Supper at Frome soon (County Event) - should be good.

Bruton Flower Arranging Club at Sunny Hill

Pouring with rain - of course, - but dry when we arrived.   Had a little detour and learnt much more about Bruton - I feel a poem coming on as our party consisted of Ruth, Kath and Eileen.

We had Pimms (on offer in most super-markets now - bought a bottle myself the other day).  Pleasant drink.with nibbles - all very jolly (had to eat quite a few nibbles to soak up the Pimms - it went to my head)  Lots of  WI members from local WIs present - good to see them all there enjoying the evening.  Then into the 'theatre' - what a lovely set-up, comfy seats/ good view - lucky pupils at Sunny Hill.  Then we had the most 'lovely' demonstration of flower arranging by Coral.  A talented lady with a good line in chatter - it was a delightful evening.  We all thoroughly enjoyed it - unfortunately, we didn't win a flower arrangment - I don't know how we'd have got one in the car - they were huge - have taken some pics on my mobile phone but have to find out how to download them - I have a little gadget 'somewhere'.  Watch this space!!

WI Meeting - June 19th

Lots of news - Parish Council have agree we can plant a small tree on the batch for the Jubilee Year.  Just have to agree what is a small tree - unfortunately I'm unable to attend next meeting  to make a comment so it will be a committee decision by those present.  Will send info re: trees via Kath.

Speaker 'interesting' but perhaps a bit too cerebral - some members looked a little dazed afterwards.  Generally, it wasn't quite what we expected and not one of his best talks, lthough lovely pics and music and it was a for a good cause.  Another lovely poem - this time about 'The Jubilee' - Ruth's done the village proud - note it was published in the July Parish News.   When my printer's working must photocopy to send to Happy Valley and Iceland.  We hope Ruth is going to adjust and enter the 20 line county poem competition!  Go on Ruth - give it a whirl!

Open garden - Sunday 17th June

Member Angela has her garden open today - I think some WI members are going to help with teas.  Arranged to meet Carole there around 4.00pm re:  Zippy Nomad book!! and general chat!  Fingers crossed for the weather - it was sunny early on but looking more rainy at present.

Dashed up as had Shel and boys over so arrived too late - she'd been and gone.  Dismal weather but still a good turn out for Angela and Alban and their good cause.

Just a day at home (WI relevant!)

Good day so far.   Visit from Sparks of Leigh on Mendip WI who brought over my bag which went home with a sales box by mistake - enjoyed a good chat over coffee : WI/ACWW etc.
Then the postman came -  what has he brought today:  ACWW/WI items:

1.  a parcel from Iceland from my ACWW penfriend with birthday wishes-  a necklace made by her husband of 'Boggalidur' from under the sea volcanic material!!  Bet you didn't know that!!  and.... a little troll plus a letter and postcard map showing Mjoll's home.   Must take to WI next week!!

2.  A book called 'Wizzing round Britain' by Zippy Nomad - saw it advertised in the ACWW magazine - all profits to ACWW - a book about visits to over 100 WIs - she quotes Carole, our County Chair!  So be careful what you write in County News  it could travel far.   Also she talks about her visit to Burnham on Sea WI and a talk by Veronica, WIA.    Ah ......  we need Zippy Nomad to visit more WIs in Somerset!!
More about the book - a quote:  'Wherever I go in the world, if I meet another WI member I know I have met a friend'  from Pat,  of North Cave WI (not sure where that is BUT I'll find out when I read the book).   It tells you lots about WIs and ACWW so is going to be very interesting.  Something else to take to WI.

What will happen during the rest of the day .......................................................

New committee for National 2012-2013

Ruth Bond - chair for her 4th year - she's certainly done a good job.
Honorary Treasurer - Stephanie Fort
Vice-Chairs -  Anne Harrison / Janice Langley

Denman College - Anne Harrison  + Marilyn Haines Evans/Julia Roberts/
Education -   Joy Thomson             + Diana Birch/Pat Tulip  
Federation Support  - Pat Tulip       + Marilyn Haines Evans/ Maggie Simons
Finance - Stephanie Fort                 +The officers /Julia Roberts
Membership - Janice Langley        + Julia Roberts, Joy Thomson, Lynne Stubbings
Public Affairs - Marylyn Haines Evans  + Aleathia Mann, Maggie Simons, Lynne Stubbings
Training Lynne Stubbings              +Margaret Lloyd Jones, Aleathia Mann, Janice Langley

Congratulations to them all.    NB:  just heard new ACWW Rep - Maggie Simons

Committee

Successful meeting at Moira's.   Lots of decisions made.
19 booked for the next lunch outing.   Iris and Anne will help with Poachers Pocket County Quiz evening.

Suggested outing Sherborne Castle - maybe calling in at Trent for tea - sounds good and quite local really which makes a nice change - I've not been there anyway - so that makes it even more interesting!

Mahjong next Monday eve at Sue's.  More news - we will have AGM report at next meeting

Programme meeting 9th July 2.30pm at Helen's.

Flower Festival

Leigh on Mendip had done a wonderful display for their Jubilee Flower Festival.  I'm sure their WI had a big hand in the whole event.  The flowers were themed on various events during the Queen's 60 year reign - very good!!   Of course, white, red, blue theme was the name of the game and major events during this period like the moon visit, miners strike, Silver Jubilee etc. 

Downhead Church also had a display which was just right with the simplistic style of the church again on the red, white, blue theme - just loved the atmosphere and the lovely scent.

4th June - Binegar Little Lunch

Arrived for my 'tea shift'.   Unable to attend lunch - Jon / Gina had to catch plane.   Congrats to  organisers - the shared food worked and there was so much bought by organisers that with food and cakes brought by those who attended there was plenty left at the end.   Impressive number of children in the play park - weather OK as well -  sun plus occasional cool cloudy spells - so well done to Heather and friends they gave everyone a day to remember.  Due to the good weather loads of people turned up - not sure they all came from Binegar but they will have enjoyed their day.   Ruth's grandson Scott played in the band which made a good sound (if a little loud for some ears)  BUT Ruth certainly rocked with pride!!

I got bored with washing up and making tea - on my birthday  - but you can't have it all - swan walk in the morning with the family was a big compensation!!

Lots of members were there enjoying themselves.  Estimated approx 200 people there - the good weather was a real bonus.

3rd June - Oakhill 'Big Lunch'

Oakhill Big Lunch - several Binegar members there - it would have been great.   They had lots of good things planned - lovely band.   All marred by heavy showers - lots of rain - what a shame.  Congratulations to the organisers - they couldn't order the weather but they sure got everything else just right.   My grandchildren loved having their faces painted (the girls), running in the races (boys)!!  Well done to Oakhill.

Amy Wilkinson (gold medal, bobsleigh) opened the event bringing lots of t-shirts with her - prizes for the races.  Evidently grandsons 'held' her gold medal .... wow!!    Lots of freebies - the organisers  had worked very hard - and boy was the quiz hard - don't know who won but we were stumped by some of the questions!!

AGM - London - 30th May

Well started our journey on the 29th  May opposite the Police Station - numbers affected from the start - ten minute wait for lady at Cartgate who didn't show.   More missing at Shepton Mallet.  Eventually we had info about some but just discovered today that one person went by train and I hadn't heard.  Have to say I was glad she'd attended as she is a very enthusiastic member.  I'm sure she sent a message it just didn't get to me - so we had 21 on our coach - plenty of space!!
1st stop - Avebury - haven't really been before - it was a delight.  Sheena and I walked the whole way around the circles - could 'feel' the atmosphere it was amazing.  Then after a quick lunch we went around the house - another first - we could touch everything - sit on the chairs, get into bed, sniff the drinks - certainly a first for our experiences in the National Trust.  Did we like it?   We loved it can't wait to go again.  Then coach to London - hotel good - sharing with 2 others.   We had a walk around bought a sarnie for tomorrow at the local Waitrose.  Later 5 of us went to Ask for a meal - had a lovely evening good food, fun atmosphere, nice wine -  Sheena, Margaret K, Joan K, Emily and I had a  excellent relaxing time.    Eventually our room mate returned from her trip to see 'Chicago' seats cost £55 - gosh were we glad we went to Ask.

30th May - Up and at Breakfast by 7.00am - continental - well it was OK - not exciting!!   Slightly muddling giving out tickets MB style!!   Off to Albert Hall on the coach with some / others walked.   Some spent the night somewhere else.  (in retrospect this was why we lost some people at the end of  the day - BUT - of course, they could  have asked the people they sat with in the hall!!).  Great speech by Ruth - she's been a fantastic chair - I love her knowledge and involvement with projects and campaigns.  Morning speaker - Julian Fellowes (the Lord Fellowes) great subject, 'Strong Women' and their effect on his life - great subject!!   Resolution good speakers however the 'against' was not well received - he made some very relevant points but because of his condescending attitutude was slow handclapped (interestingly Wells members found this very humiliating {rude}).   I agree with this viewpoint - it let us down - we should respect our speakers.   Finance/ Denman/ Public Affairs updates during the morning.
Afternoon gathered wool, needles and joined the 'Guiness Challenge'.   Actually it was fun and missed it when we'd finished!!   Those who didn't  join in really missed out!!    Our speaker was a very well qualified female astronomer - very keen on her subject and keen for us to advise our daughters/grandaughters to take Physics. Finally we had Ruth's closing speech followed by 'Artem, Kara, Robin and Kristina' with a few demonstrationa dances - very well received.  Then, we had the wait to fill our coach with 21  - gosh for 3/4hr we only had 17.   Just before the coach driver left without them - we found two and then the other two ran round the corner red faced and breathless - gosh they just missed a ride  home by train by turning up with two minutes to spare.  Then we took 5 hours to get home!!

Certainly worth  the outing - Jerusalem in the Albert Hall is amazing and Avebury was delightful.

Olympic Torch in Shepton

Did anyone go to see the Olympic Torch in Shepton?   Lots of razz-ma-tazz - in fact the torch itself was an anti-climax!!   Still glad we went - please add comments if you were there or anywhere en route!!
Three coaches took the whole of Oakhill school down for the event.  Much excitement as all the preliminary vehicles rolled through.

Might be of interest to some - new Frome WI had one of their officers running with the torch - very exciting for them and great pictures - one below:

It's good to have a close up of the 'lighting up' procedure as the officials help Emma to light the flame ready for  her 300 metre run - yes that's the distance they run!!
We were near the end of our fellows run - within minutes he was whisked away in a coach - I saw Emma with other competitors in a coach when we were walking back to the car.

Lots of publicity for Coca Cola, Samsung and Lloyds Bank and very good police escorts (cars and motor-bikes - they seemed to be enjoying themselves too) who 'revved up' the crowds - especially appealling to the school children I was standing with.(well behind) - you can tell by the picture of the police car above - they're all waving their flags in front of me.

May Meeting - what a surprise!

Resolution discussed  Angela speaking Against and Eileen For - after fairly lengthy discussion discretion got the most votes - so over to delegate to decide and then report back to us with her decision on the day.  Litton & Hinton Blewitt are sending the delegate for our group of 4.  Iris then presented a 2012 banner to members - this  has been prepared in secret by 4 members: (I know it's displayed sideways - I'll work on that) : Glenys, Moira, Iris and Anne (but being modest - Anne said she only made the tea).   Members were really surprised as this has been a complete secret.  The needlework was fantastic - many congrats to these very skilled needlewomen.  Explanation: it incorporates:  The Jubilee, the Olympics (a needlework interpretation) Somerset quilting, Somerset County Logo and Runner Beans.   Now I hear you say Beans why Beans?  - because in the Domesday Book, Binegar was referred to as Beanacre - Beans which grow on the hill.  Bet you didn't know that!!    After the presentation we had early refreshments, lists to fill, friends to chat with ....   Oh meant to say - room was decorated with some of the lovely bunting made by members at Angela's 'bunting' day more busy needlewomen!

For the second half of the evening, the Drama Group presented a 'skit' called appropriately 'Binegar Games' which discussed plans for holding this in our village.  This was followed by Ruth's poem about the Jubilee / Games whilst the Drama group enacted various activities on the stage!  Seemed well received - certainly there were lots of laughs about it. Plenty of racquets, sports equipment and a broom handle which was used so that Wendy B could 'pole vault' over the stage - also Ruth bought some large pink bloomers which were used (lost) during the relay race and passed over with the baton!! Angela rushed on as the nurse with an enormous syringe - it was all very slapstick but amusing from the comments received. Evening ended with raffle results - Anne and Iris won a prize - quite appropriate after the surprise they'd arranged for us. A good evening!


Team: Iris, Glenys, Moira and Anne

Friday 11th May

Drama Rehearsal in Village Hall - got a part afterall.  Ruth liked the play - her Jubilee poem was very good - with added actions by the rest of us (hopefully to amuse!!).   Fingers crossed all round - have to remember to take various extra's - bell, bunting, flags, broom handle - don't ask 'why' about the latter - all will be revealed on WI night!!

Believe lunch club visited restaurant this week.  Not heard any derogatory comments .................so guess it was OK!..

Rag Rug day at Taunton

Well - interesting day - everyone else found it relaxing - I found it stressful.  I'll clarify that comment - I really enjoyed the day at WL just got stressed trying to finish it!!   I know I was doing it randomly but that made it 'worse'.  Nicky from Westbury sup Mendip WI was very orderly and I can totally see why - I feel so much better now it's finished!!   Made a red, white and blue rosette as well - for Jubilee, of course, that was much more 'organised'.  Made my left 'holding' hand ache - kind of RSI - going to buy some copydex and 'seal' it stop the boys pulling bits out!!  Used UHU in  the end - it's set solid now!!  Chuckle!!

Rosette left,  lavender bag right - glad I tried it - remember my godfather made rag rugs - they kept for years - true re-cycling!!  Hubby hated it - liked the reverse better.   Ah well - I did 'have a go'.  Maybe bunting for my  next try!!   Update:  bought materials (some from Milly Moon night at Frome) now I need some ribbon - I know clever people recycle old material but if I'm in a hurry I need the quickest route!!  Will update if there is any progress on this plan!!

Another bunting day arranged at end of May - thanks Angela - members will enjoy that!

Somerset SE Holiday

Angela, her hubby, Alban, and Eileen joined this holiday to Kent/Sussex on 1st - 4th May.
1st May One the way up we stopped and Wakehurst Place (home of Millenium Seed Bank).  Very interesting - Eileen went around the garden with Margaret & Hilda BUT at the end Alban became plant carrier as MB decided she'd buy a plant at every garden we visited!! 
Q Hotel very comfy
2nd May - AM - Batemans  - lovely - everyone really enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere - on a visit to the mill E bought flour (!!).  PM - Knole - very grand 365 rooms but seemed very sombre - guidebook brought it into perspective but it wasn't a favourite with a lot of people.  Saw the deer right up near the house - 3 of us bought an icecream before we got on the coach - lost ring from Lanzarote.  Did query at Scotney - but not found - shame it had good memories.
3rd May -  AM  -  Scotney Castle - interesting house - lovely gardens - romantic ruined castle in a lake below the 19th century rebuilt house - loved it!  PM -  Gt Dixter House - fabulous lived up to and exceeded expectations.  After hour wandering the gardens - Tour of house at 3.00pm - started to rain during this tour.  some people went back to coach early - we continued our walk and went to fetch plants so weren't popular over this BUT we were originally told 4.30pm departure and those who 'loved' the garden were peeved about earlier 'concensus' idea -  say no more!!
4th May -  AM - Sarah Raven's garden at Perch Hill -  difficult reversing for coach.  Luckily Sarah was available to do garden talk and tour - wonderful all 'loved it' - more money to spend!!  PM - Sissinghurst - another lovely garden - a little early for some areas but plantings admired.  Some of us climbed the tower but MB and HIlda decided they'd rather have a bowl of soup to 'warm up'.

Overall - lovely gardens - weather dull - only one rainy session and only one sunny afternoon - cold for this time of year which affected plantings but gave wonderful displays of tulips!   All really enjoyed holiday.

Left Wakehurst Place with
Kew Millenium Seed Bank

Traffic problems on way home - stopped for meal - cafe totally understaffed so further delays but lovely fish&chip supper for £5 - v. good value.   5 Shepton Malleters got off at Podimore due to controversial threat of tour of Somerset before they got home!! 

romantic ruined Scotney Castle  - beautiful garden and lovely 'new' house
at the top of the garden

Then on the last day we had a tour with Sarah Raven at her garden at Perch Hill:

Sarah Raven at Perch Hill
Note Angela & Alban at the front!

view from the tower Sissinghurst - can see Margaret
and Hilda near the archway.



Bouchier Tower - Knole - went on Wed pm
but no gardens open  - rather sombre!
Fascinating history

Great Dixter House with  plantsman's garden
only afternoon it rained

Women Walk the World - 28th April 2012

2.15pm  Kath and I walked to the hall and met Annette.  Then we walked and met Anne - Lynne couldn't come due to problems with gutters!!   Several others couldn't make it - Wendy E had had a fall / Ann J had something else on!!  We then made for Angela's for a photoshoot - thanks Alban!!

Then it was around the rest of the block past Helens and then three walked up Tellis Lane to complete their 2mile  walk.

9.00pm this walk just starting at the southernmost  tip of S. Africa. Lorraine du Tout posted this picture. Good to see the variety of areas involved.

Romania planning to walk 29th April - ACWW Day - they have a good weather forecast.

The photo to the right shows members enjoying a cuppa and cakes at Draycott (The Strawberry Inn) after their choice of a 2 mile walk or a 5 mile walk.

This walk was arranged in Malaysia - starting at 7.00am.  Different times - different time zones - different days as well - but all for ACWW.  Women sharing a bond to help others.

N Mendip Group Meeting 25th April pm

8  members attended - Litton and Hinton Blewitt our hostess group gave us an excellent evening.  They had made lovely hats, decorated the hall, absolutely yummy food and the speaker, Yvonne Bell, was fascinating - her subject, 'Love and Marriage' Edwardian style - excellent.   Picture above of the 'royal hat' competition - some of the brave souls who entered.  The evening ended with a poem and a short play - well done to the ladies of Litton and Hinton Blewitt WI.  Thanked by the President of Cranmore- Strawberry Line - our next hostess is them!!   Hope they didn't go away horrified by the responsibility of entertaining us oldies!!

Roadshow at West Camel Village Hall

Good meeting - morning speakers plus tap dancing made the 'complete' difference - it spiced up the info. from the committees.  Was really good all round.  Angela, Moira and Eileen were there.   E sold 110 sun-visors.  Fascinating stories re: Queen's flight and experiences when flying with them from Group Capt. David Greenaway in the afternoon

This is a picture of one of the 500 sun-visors I've been selling everywhere I go!!          Not totally true was a a lovely craft show this am - seemed to spend lots and saw various different WI folk - you must know we can't resist a craft show!!

Drama afternoon at Ann's

Full cast unable to attend - Ruth and I were 'understudies' - it was still fun. The script was altered such a lot I've re-typed it - so hope I got all the alterations right - still there's time to amend!!

Present: Ann, (of course!!), Ruth, Angela, Wendy E and me (only 5 of us!!).

Lots of members have been referred to within the play which makes it more interesting for folk. I'm perfectly happy to be an understudy it makes life easier - dress rehearsal 11th May 2.00pm.

PS:  Ruth has been busy writing a poem about the play involving every member - she is very clever.

23- 25 April activities plus w'end Craft Show at B&W

23rd - 2pm Drama at Ann's
24th - Kilmersdon Walk with 'lunch' at the pub? 3.6miles - cancelled due to continual rain - would be very slippery!!
25th - West Camel Roadshow - Moira, Angela and Eileen going
pm - N Mendip Group Meeting at Litton & Hinton Blewitt WI
26/29 - Craft Show at Bath & West Showground - I expect some members will attend.

Binegar win a prize!!

Saturday was Henton Roadshow and when the 200 club was drawn - Binegar won a prize - not sure how much - was taking pictures of our speaker. Chris Sperring, and his owl 'Beau' with Emma from the WI office who was keen to hold the owl. She was the only volunteer. The owl box is the one being offered free (one per parish) or £55 if you want to buy one!!

This is to encourage the return of the barn owl to our fields.

There was a Jubilee theme with on the right  of lefthand picture above Carole (Somerset chair) cutting the cake, made by (left) Liz, Sheila made the one at Crowcombe and Margaret Bigg (right) made the 'decoration' for both meetings. (The cake and the plaque go on to West Camel next Wednesday I think) We sang Jerusalem, 2 verses of the National Anthem and Happy Birthday because it was the Queens birthday (announced on the radio that morning) and surprisingly enough despite on 45 (ish) people present it sounded very good!!

Another WI/Woodland Trust idea is 'Plant a tree for the Jubilee' - if we did (not that we've discussed it - where would the Parish let us plant it? Are the Parish planting trees? Also there is a survey about  where the oak tree saplings given out at Liverpool 4 years ago are?  I know where mine are - must check Margaret knows where hers are and if they're growing (heights etc!!). Meant to say County WI Bunting was on display looking pretty good on a green and white theme.

19th April an afternoon of 'bunting' at The Buntings

Thanks to those who had prepared in advance and brought ready done triangles - two strips were produced double quick and then two more done by our excellent machinists - Ann, Moira and Angela - then Wendy arrived and set up her machine too - so much whirring of machines. Helen and I were cutters and Angela and Moira ironed as well. (I have to say I was even a dreadful cutter - I'm a bodger really - BUT I was there!! Just as well as Angela produced a lovely chocolate/beetroot cake with our tea - mmm - I don't think I warranted it but it was yummy!!!). Congratulations to the REAL needlewomen - a great afternoon - and thanks to Angela for setting it up. Oh and thanks to all who contributed materials. Guess they'll be on display at our May meeting.

Meeting - 17th April

Our speaker was - Les Cloutman, Somerset Wildlife Trust talking about the 'Wonderful Mendips'.

Interesting talk about the seasons on Mendip - great views, flora and fauna. Another great poem from Ruth. Also sold 'Women Walk the World' sun-visors - 28 hurrah - have a box of 500 will take to Roadshows as well!! Even our non-walkers bought them 'for the garden' - thanks for your support members.

Radstock Museum - Quilt Exhibition

Midsomer Quilting of Chilcompton present this exhibition.

Members met at the Village Hall at 1.30pm on 13th December to go to the Quilt Exhibition. Weather Ok - slight worry about roadworks in Radstock.

Fascinating true and poignant story of the history of a hexagonal silk quilt displayed at the exhibition:

This is the story by the owner: She says this quilt was made by my great grandmother, who was born Anna Maria Cradock, near Hemington, on 6th February, 1836. In 1856 she married my great-grandfather, John Edgell, in Hemington, two and a half miles from the museum. In 1760 they moved to Foxcote Farm where they had three sons and two daughters, of whom my grandmother, also called Anna, was the only one to marry.
Grandmother was the youngest of the children and was only 11 when her mother
died. We believe this is why my great-grandmother’s quilt was unfinished
and was stored (together with her wedding dress) in the large wooden chest that
has housed it for the past 130 years.

Archive meeting - 5th April

Kath, Doreen, Chris, Anne and Ruth met at Eileens. We were fascinated by the file on the Silver Jubilee but then got 'down to it'. It's going to be a big job - however, at present we decided to concentrate on the Diamond Jubilee with lots of ideas from our previous efforts. We also put different years in envelopes to aid our next 'attempts' and managed to name some of the members on photos - all in all a successful meeting BUT poor Doreen staggered off with even more than she brought.

Kath has managed to find another photo in her files - so this is certainly a good idea - another photo to identify - Kath knows most of the names - BUT there's always one people can't remember - we should ask Molly she may know as she's been a member since she was 14!!

Anne has borrowed the BBC Domesday information to read it more carefully - there wasn't time at the meeting.

Committee meeting

Members met at Chris's - apologies from 3 members. Busy meeting - lots of news from County and National so plenty to discuss. Speaker has been contacted - everything seems organised. Have heard from our twin WI re a visit to them in the summer.

Lunch Club - 3rd April

16 members visited the Downside Inn today. Meal enjoyed - special offer two courses £7.95 either main/sweet or main/coffee. Most of them enjoyed themselves - as they say - there's always one who doesn't - you can't please all the people all the time!!

Congrats to WI members involved with Binegar Soup Lent Lunches

Hubby and I went to the last Lent Soup lunch in the village hall. Congrats to all Binegar members involved who made the soup, (choice of 4) and cakes (lots). Kath cooked all the bread, I believe, which was lovely. So congrats to Sue, Anne, Annette, Kath on duty in the kitchen and Iris on the door - there may have been more who were involved with soup making or cake making so congrats to them as well.

Very pleasant lunchtime - lovely to chat to people - well done to everyone.

Different events planned for April

3rd April - lunch club at The Downside this month
3rd April - 7.30pm Chris's - committee meeting
5th April - 2pm - Eileen's - 1st Archive meeting - we need to get some names on our photos and a plan to present them nicely! It is the 'WI Year of Archives'
13th April - 1.30pm - Village Hall - visit to Radstock Quilting Exhibition
17th April - WI Meeting
19th April - 2,30pm - Angela's - bunting making at 'the Buntings'
23rd April - 2pm - Drama at Ann's
24th April - Kilmersdon Walk to be led by Ann.
29th April - 10.00am - Women Walk the World meet at 'The Village Hall' - might be joined by some members from Chewton Mendip WI.

Inbetween we have EASTER and WI Roadshows at Crocombe, Henton and W. Camel which some members might be involved with !!

Filled in whole page of signatures for the Purple Teardrop Campaign - thank you members.

20th March - Soap Making

Well I arrived in time for the end of the news slot. Our speaker was Libby Syddall hello@somerset.soap.com - subject soap-making. This is the ad bit - 100% natural vegetarian/palm and dairy-free soaps, bath salts and lip balm.

The soap-making was fun to watch and involved 'measuring' various ingredients' - heating lots of oil, beeswax, coconut etc up then adding a mixture of water & soda crystals (the alkaline) - stirring in essential oils and colourings - in this case powdered spinach which produced an 'odd' colour BUT evidently this will improve after 7-8 weeks storage!! Lots of facts en route - palm-free is very good as it stops our forests being knocked down - do you search out palm oil free items when shopping - read the ingredients you will be surprised how many items include palm oil - we should avoid it if we can. Somerset Bees Wax - most items are Somerset sourced (not the Coconut surprisingly!!). Oh and it had set before she went home!!

Next step all members had a go at making our own 'scrub' - ideal for using after gardening for that 'proper cleanse' of your hands - you do wash off after use but only DAB dry to retain goodness. So then we split into two groups (first lot ate all the biscuits!!) and we each made our 'scrub' to take home.

Ingredients in mine: 8oz sugar, enough oil (mixture of sweet almond oil/sunflower oil) to mix, one tspn avocado oil, one tspn evening primrose oil, calendula dried pieces for 'herby interest' and 2-3 ml of essential oil - I chose 'litsea cubeba' (from China but gives a sherbert lemon smell). Needs a lot of stirring and has a slight oily topping - pot up and stir before use - keep on your window sill to remind you to use it!!

Ruth finished the evening with a list of all the things that went wrong for 'our other Ruth' in February - goodness it seemed she had 'so many problems' and even wished there wasn't an extra day this year. It did make us laugh (in horror of so many bad events) and then it turns out her immersion heater has broken down now as well!! As they say - it never rains but it pours!!

Activities this week

Committee meeting at Doreens Tuesday afternoon - very comprehensive meeting. Very foggy - hasn't really cleared all day. Kath will have a lot of lists for next week. It was Kath's birthday - Moira had made a lovely coffee and walnut iced cake we all sang Happy Birthday. Kath is certainly a marvellous very active and supportive member of our WI.

International Women's Day - 8th March

7 members attended this day at Long Sutton Village Hall. Interesting speakers - the Shelter proved very thought provoking - 1in4 women are victims of violence or abuse at home (1in6 men). There are 12,000 children/men/women who have been trafficked living in Britain (info from Purple Raindrop Campaign). A basket of kitchen items was given as a gift just to show what members could produce at relatively small expense to help women who are being re-housed often because an abusive partner has 'discovered' where they're sheltering and they have to be moved on.

Speakers covered Ceylon (elephant sanctuary and beaches) and S India - visiting Chennai and the train to Ooty (not for the faint-hearted evidently) due to the precarious bridges and N. Ghana (women's rights and how they are gradually being introduced) and Tanzania (land-grab problems caused by multi-national firms) in the morning. In the afternoon Sparks Beattie from Leigh on Mendip spoke about her classes for 'Let's Cook Local' and Alison Burnett ACWW World Treasurer talked of finances and Women Walk the World. During the lunch hour some members were able to walk to the village green and visit the church which was reported as well worth a visit. Many thanks to the ladies of Long Sutton WI for all their work in the kitchen and hall preparation.

Some events this week

6th March - Another outing for the lunch club this Tuesday - Venue - The George at Nettlebridge. .Evidently it was OK - not exciting but OK!!

8th March - 7 members due to attend International Women's Day event at Long Sutton Village Hall. Day went well - lucky with weather.

'Occasion' models at Walton

Walton Fashion Show on 29th February 2012

Interesting event. Two raffles - one for SCFWI and one for Dorothy House Foundation. Casual wear modelled before tea ..... then scones/cakes ..... people trying on clothes. 'Occasion' wear after tea - good afternoon. I won a large bottle of Martini - husband pleased!!

Our January Speaker

Our January Speaker , Martin Horler, - doesn't he look cool and he could play some great tunes on that horn. His talk was, 'The role of a Royal Mail Guard' - authentic uniform and many items to view.

Ruth did a lovely poem in conclusion - we all enjoyed the evening it was good to see everyone. Evidently they had a lovely Christmas party - but the hall heating is proving insufficient this weather. Of course, we must remember to turn on 'all the heaters'!!!

Well, many of us need to learn a bit more about 'how the hall works' - the minute someone is away none of us have a clue about 'working things' - this will be remedied by the committee.

Committee Meeting today

Very cosy afternoon at Angela's. Lots of decisions and future plans made. Helen unable to attend - Kath in the chair. Angela had made tasty little scones for us with our cuppa's!! Moira enquired about calendar - hurrah no. 36 sold!!

We have a craft evening planned for the next meeting. Glenis will demonstrate 'boxes' - Ruth to put 'bring craft or paper scissors' on our poster in the Post Office. Poor Kath - lots of lists for members to choose events. Suggestions box always available to members 'ideas'.

Jobs allocated at this meeting - all happily agreed.

Lunch Club

This is still flourishing - not sure where they went this month - will enquire.

Holiday in New Zealand

Eileen's recent holiday over Christmas and New Year!!

1. Hong Kong - preparation for the Year of the Dragon.
2. Familly time on the beach with Rangitoto - extinct volcano in the background.
3. Pohutukawa tree on the sea front - the New Zealand sign of Christmas - wonderful.
4. Dredger in the river between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

Had a great time - but got shut out of my account!! Hence no news until I got home the situation didn't improve and I've had to spend time fiddling with passwords etc!! All seems OK now.