Members of Retford Mayflower WI, joined at times by guests, have had a busy few months.
May was party time as the fifth birthday of the branch was celebrated by everyone enjoying a lovely afternoon tea – but in the evening! Members had been requested to purchase an outfit for the evening from a charity shop up to the value of £10.00, and the fun time was rounded off by a fashion parade which Jane Jefferson, the County Advisor, kindly judged.
In June there was a talk on Japan, with a competition being a fan. July saw members visit the Majestic Theatre where three volunteers conducted an informative tour. Everyone enjoyed hearing about the history of the building, the workings of the theatre and assessing which seats offered the best view. After the tour it was back to Stephen House for refreshments and chat.
A week later a few members took a ride over to Mansfield to Veolia Materials Recovery Facility where rubbish collected by Bassetlaw finally ends up. Prior to Covid, Lesley had given a talk to members, so it had been a long wait to actually visit the plant where they were given an update chat and quiz before donning hi-vis, radio-controlled earphones and hard hats for a tour of the operational site.
It was fascinating to watch materials being separated and then see the bales of tin, aluminium, cardboard and plastic ready to go to other destinations. The general waste does not go to landfill but to an incinerator to produce steam which is converted into green energy.
August was picnic time in the garden and in September there will be a talk about the ‘Framework Knitters Museum and Luddites’. Mayflower WI meets at Stephen House in Chapelgate on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. New members and visitors are always welcome.