The year is already racing ahead, and May proved to be a particularly busy month for Retford Mayflower WI.
Members welcomed Stephen Brown from Boston, Lincolnshire, who gave an informative and entertaining talk entitled ‘It’s ‘L’ on Wheels’. Stephen, who set up his own business in 1985, must retake his Driving Instructor Theory and Practical tests every four years. He shared various insights, including that the first driving test took place in March 1935, undertaken by Mr Ronald Beer. Stephen’s talk was interspersed with humorous anecdotes, which delighted the members.
Also in May, members participated in Charter Day by serving drinks, bacon rolls, and homemade cakes at their usual location in the Buttermarket. Three members completed the Welbeck 10K on a sunny day and proudly received their medals. Ten members also took part in the WI County Quiz at Carlton-in-Lindrick. Although Mayflower did not have any winning teams, everyone enjoyed the evening. Quizzes remained a firm favourite with the group – six members attended one at Retford Little Theatre in June, where they placed third, and others joined an event hosted by Blyth WI in July.
In June, member Anne organised a treasure hunt around Retford. On a warm evening, teams of four set off on foot, armed with clipboards and clues, to discover hidden aspects of the town’s history, often visible only when looking up at buildings. After the hour-long hunt, members gathered for refreshments and conversation as Anne marked the results. Three teams tied for first place, requiring a tiebreaker to determine the final rankings In July, ‘The Hat Lady’, Yvonne Henson, visited Stephen House. Members were encouraged to bring along a favourite hat or headpiece for the monthly competition.
The August meeting will be a members-only picnic, with fingers crossed for fine weather to enjoy the garden. Looking ahead to September, attention will turn to crafting decorations for the annual Christmas Tree Festival at St Swithun’s Church. Retford Mayflower WI meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm at Stephen House on Chapelgate. Visitors are welcome to attend any open meeting and discover what this active group of ladies gets up to.