W.I. Newsletter May 2026

It is amazing that the promise of alcohol had our members queueing to enter the Village Hall for our Annual Meeting this month!  Yes, non-alcoholic beverages were also available.  There was also the lure of a fish and chip supper followed by a tub of delicious ice cream.  Whilst this is in effect a formal meeting, the atmosphere was relaxed and jolly.

Once we had our fill of fish and chips the meeting got underway.  We had two resolutions presented relating to Accessible public toilet facilities to promote dignity, health and social inclusion & Action on women’s homelessness.   Our members voted to support both and this result has been conveyed to our delegate for the NFWI AGM on June 4^th where these will be debated in detail and voted on.  Once again this will be a virtual meeting.

Once the usual monthly business had been dealt with it was on to the Annual Meeting.  First our Treasurer gave a review of our Finances, including income and how this had been divided between National, Federation and our Institute.  Thanks to a generous grant from the Village Fete in recognition of our hard work in providing refreshments at this annual event we are solvent.  However, a reduced membership will result in a drop in our income.  Unfortunately, two of our long standing, very involved, members have moved away to be nearer their families and others are no longer able to attend meetings or events.  We will miss them.

Our ever-efficient Secretary, Aileen, then gave a report of all we had done in the last year, summarising our speakers and outings.  It is amazing what we fit into the year.   Our President, Lynne, then said she would serve one more year and thanked all the committee and members who had supported all our efforts.  It really does come down to teamwork.  Unfortunately, we couldn’t persuade any other members to join the committee, so it is status quo for another year.

During the evening it was pointed out that there have been many improvements to our venue in recent years thanks to the hardworking Village Hall Committee and thanks were given to our representative, Helen Clark, who has been very involved in seeking grants for these works.  The latest improvement to be revealed this month were the new fire exit doors.  So easy to open and with built-in blinds – in fact it was such a warm evening we were able to open them and hopefully let out the fish and chip smell!  Brilliant, so thank you Helen and all the Committee – we do notice your efforts.  We also appreciate the electronic window blinds

We would love to welcome some new members, please don’t think we are all Jam & Jerusalem as the media portray us.  We are a group of women who want to remain relevant; the core pillars of the WI are to connect, empower and educate women.  It cannot be stressed enough that there is much laughter and fun to be had as a WI Member.  In addition to belonging to an Institute members have access to Federation and National events if they wish.  Basically, a member has a voice.  

Ladies please do think about coming to meet us – perhaps the first step could be to come along to one of our monthly coffee mornings.   See diary dates below.

Further information can also be found on the Village Website abbottsann.com – look for the W.I. pages under the Clubs and Societies tab!  

Our next meeting is on Friday 26^th June when we will be visiting Houghton Lodge for a tour of the garden followed by an indulgent cream team.  This event is largely funded by our Pamela King bursary with members attending being asked for a contribution.    Please make sure that you are on the list and have paid our Treasurer.  A car sharing list will be circulated.

DIARY DATES: