PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS
ANNUAL MEETING HELD ON 15TH MARCH 2023
Thank you Joan, as always a great reflection over the past year with a full programme from our Committee.
Following the pandemic we were very unsure how we would progress into 2023 but thanks to the hard work of the Committee we have had some great meetings, wonderful theatre trips, picnics in the park, not to mention the ‘1950s theme Vintage Tea’ to celebrate our beloved late Queen Elizabeth’s life.
We have continued to enjoy monthly lunches and afternoon teas – always a favourite, and we look forward to many more this year.
Many of you will know and have noticed the wonderful garden outside the library which in part is the WI Memorial Garden and also part belonging to the Community. The latter was quite run done, but due to the expertise of our very active member Jenny Wilson, she has turned this into the most beautiful area, planting and re-planting over the months, and much admired by the local people passing by. Thank you Jenny you have certainly put a WI mark on the village with all your hard work.
Our choir continues to meet on Wednesday evenings (except for WI evenings) under the guidance of Joyce, Lyn, Rita and Penny. Singing for joy and performing during the year with a Concert for friends and family in aid of the Ukraine War and also performing at a joint Concert at the Village Hall. Even though I say it myself, we make a wonderful sound!
On a special note I would like to thank Gill who has served on the Committee for many years and who has been a great Vice President to me. She has continually welcomed members and visitors at the door with her warm personality and has always given that extra something which I know you will miss in the future. We wish you well Gill.
Thanks to all the Committee, Joan, Charlotte, Gill, Daphne, Lyn and Eunice – you have kept us going throughout thick and thin of the Pandemic and I know you will continue to make our WI one of the most (I think the most!) welcoming, friendly and caring Institute’s anyone could hope for. I will miss our monthly meetings and chats but I know we will continue always to be friends and keep in touch.
Finally, my resounding thanks to all you members, without whom there would be no WI. We share a fantastic friendship and I know it will continue well into the future.
My very best wishes to you all for the future and thanks for everything.
Patxxx
