Following the successful return to the Village Hall in July, East Markham WI members were looking forward to taking part in the programme of future events.
At the beginning of August, a group of members met for coffee, cake, and chat at Hall Farm in Weston, followed by a little retail therapy in the well-stocked gift shop.
The August meeting had a change from the advertised speaker and Richard Godley came along to talk about the Women’s Land Army, which started in about 1919 and was not disbanded until 1950. He gave a most interesting and illustrated talk covering the origins of the Land Army, the work of Lady Denman, the little-known Timber Corp, the wide range of work Land Girls and Timber Jills carried out, the skills they learned, their uniforms and badges. He had brought along his ‘model’ wearing an authentic uniform, as well as examples of armbands and badges. There were some amusing stories from his interviews and contacts with former Land Girls and Timber Jills, from around his local area. Many questions and comments followed with a visitor bringing along a photograph of her mother, who had been in the Land Army in Tuxford, together with her armband.
On Tuesday 7th September there was a Cookery Demonstration by Alena Usher, who showed members and visitors ideas for starters, mains, and dessert, including a nod to the festive season. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed tasting some of the demonstrated food. The September monthly meeting welcomed Sue Bradley to talk about her Russian Great Grandma.
October will see the group’s Harvest Supper, with entertainment from vocalists and a flautist and member donations for the local Food Bank. In November Steve Ash, who had to cancel in August, will be talking about Wentworth Woodhouse, the former home of the Earls Fitzwilliam and the Lady Mabel College for Physical Education. The house is now owned by a Trust and is undergoing extensive renovation to restore it to its former glory.
New members and visitors are always welcome to join the group at any of their meetings for a visitor fee of £4.00. Contact 01777 871567 or email eastmarkhamsec@nottswi.org.uk for more information.
