Tarvin WI June and July 2019 Reports

EVENTS DURING JUNE

June and July were very busy months and members enjoyed several events in addition to our usual monthly activities.

Christine told us about a rather interesting visit by several WI members to Stonyford Gardens near Delamere Forest. Despite the weather, the day started with really enjoyable tour of the gardens by the owner followed by refreshments in the coffee shop. She remarked on the rare trees and shrubs and the huge variety of plants making it a haven for wildlife. It's no wonder that these gardens have appeared in both The Telegraph and Gardeners' World. A very worthwhile visit!

Lorna was one of the Tarvin WI members who all enjoyed their sandwich making contribution, especially the tea and the delicious cake breaks. There was also time to see the many other attractions, especially the amazing Russian Cossack horse riding display. The working party returned home weary but still looking forward to next year. Our CFWI president's lovely thank you letter was shared with the members by Maureen.

June's Speaker was Gary Hunt, Senior Education and Engagement Officer at the UK Parliament. Maureen noted that Gary explained that his visit was part of his remit to extend public involvement in politics. Members were presented with a quiz testing their knowledge of parliamentary procedure. During his talk, Gary explained some of the Interesting archaic traditions including the length of time the counting of votes in two corridors took. Generally, the Speaker is re-elected without opposition. The traditional symbolic dragging of the new speaker to his seat still continues today. Interestingly, the role of the speaker was a perilous position to have as seven previous speakers were executed between the years 1394 and 1535. Ceremonies are still held at the end of parliament in July and the opening in September. After a very interesting and informative talk Gary congratulated the winning team: Alison, Irene, Penny and Gill.

EVENTS DURING JULY

Maureen related that several members took part in the Chester City Walk organised by Cheshire WI. Good weather heralded the day and Chester was buzzing with groups of WI members and city guides. Our group was treated to a very interesting talk pointing out landmarks and hearing how Chester had changed over the centuries. The walk finished in Upper Bridge Street where we were amazed at the number of historical buildings, ones we regularly passed without a second glance. Of course, we all enjoyed lunch at the Architect which followed.

Jenny was one of a large group who went by coach to see The Pantaloon Theatre Company perform Sense and Sensibility at Arley Hall Walled Garden Theatre. Members were struck by the beautiful surroundings, the convivial atmosphere and the rain which tried but failed to spoil the evening. Wine and a picnic complimented the evening. The actors worked extremely hard and appeared to be having fun themselves. A very successful trip and perhaps one to repeat next year.

Maureen noted that this year's members' night took the form of Call My Bluff with Alan Wilkinson as the quiz master. Teams were given ten unusual words from the Oxford Dictionary. With each obscure word Janice, Elaine and Christine each tried to persuade us that their meaning was the correct one. The game was great fun causing much amusement and involved great teamwork while, as usual with Irene's organisation, the activity and refreshments were second to none. Maureen gave the vote of thanks to Irene and Alan and their team of helpers who had ensured that the evening was a huge success.

Following the fun and games members enjoyed cheese and crackers with wine and orange juice and an opportunity to catch up with friends old and new.

Date of next meeting is on Wednesday, August 28th at 7.30 pm in the Edna Rose Room at Tarvin Community Centre.

Speaker is Neil Smith with topic 'Have Guitar Will Travel'

Why not come along and join us as a guest, you will be assured of a very warm welcome?