East Markham WI continued to offer a variety of activities in August. Three members and two spouses took to the air at Darlton Gliding Club, participating in an event organised by the Nottinghamshire Federation of WIs. Following safety briefings and being appropriately equipped, they soared into the clear blue sky, enjoying views of local villages and countryside from a unique perspective. Member Jann used the occasion to raise funds for Nottinghamshire Women’s Aid, securing sponsorship from members and friends, with contributions currently nearing £300.
At the monthly meeting, members welcomed Clare O’Donnell from Melton Mowbray, who delivered an informative talk on the history of the town and its famous pork pie. Clare, a pie ‘riser’, demonstrated the traditional method of forming the pie over a ‘dolly’ and explained the stringent criteria required for a pie to earn the title of ‘Melton Mowbray Pork Pie’.
WI business was kept brief, with members signing up and paying deposits for a cruise on the River Trent scheduled for 25th September.
The speaker at the September meeting was from Co-op Legal Services, offering a talk titled ‘Tax, Care and Toy Boys’. The presentation covered the advantages and risks of planning, or failing to plan, for one’s future finances, accommodation, health, care, and relationships.
On Tuesday 15th October, Paula Bell will return, this time portraying ‘Lady Denman’, a WI pioneer and namesake of the former Denman College. Paula’s costumed talks are both educational and entertaining, providing a fascinating insight into the life of this influential woman during the early years of the WI and beyond.
Visitors are always welcome to attend the monthly meetings for a fee of £5.00, or consider becoming a member, with an annual fee of £48.00 and pro-rata rates for those joining later in the year. Meetings are held at East Markham Village Hall on the third Tuesday of each month at 7.15pm. For more information, contact the Secretary on 07971 291883 or Membership on 01777 871567.