Fairfield WI

This was the first meeting in 2017 and it was lovely to see so many members, plus two new ladies.

Our condolences go to Barbara on the death of her husband Ken. Our thoughts are with her and the family.

Jerusalem was sung and apologies given.

Carol thanked the committee for all their hard work in organising the Christmas party and thanks to everyone who contributed a dessert.

Instead of handing out Christmas cards we donated money to Guide Dogs for the Blind and £80.00 was raised for this charity.

Carol reminded us of the six Resolutions this year and asked that members mark their chosen one. The total would then be sent to NFWI.

The WFWI County quiz is on 3rd April in Alvechurch. We will be putting a team forward.

We have organised an afternoon tea on a River Cruise in Stratford on 25th April. Details later.

Our annual meal is at The Gate Bournheath on 15th February at 7pm.

The first Committee meeting for the Produce show is on 25th February 7.30 pm at Anne's house. The schedule will be decided at this meeting.

The Spring Federation meeting is on 24th April at the Artrix. The speaker will be Dave Fletcher, Polar Explorer and Historian.

Speakers this evening were Vince Williams and Jon Goodson on W.I at war.

The first WI in Britain started in Anglesey in 1915 and was initially a rural organisation. During the second world war it was suggested by the Chairman Lady Denman that help could be provided with caring for evacuees and with rural food production.

The organisation was active in receiving and helping evacuees to settle in rural communities.

The WI had run rural markets for many years and when food was scarce in wartime they were a more valuable addition to rural towns and villages. They sold surplus produce mainly fruit and vegetables. A major thing they took part in was fruit preserves. Tons of jam was made and mainly canned not bottled and taken to central wholesale depots.

It was a very interesting talk and enjoyed by all . Some members could remember the jam in cans but I'm afraid most of us couldn't. Kath gave the vote of thanks.

The competition of Wartime Memorabilia was won by Meriel Scurrell 2nd Maggie Mason and

3rd Sheila Morris

The Cup was presented to Sheila for most points in the competitions for 2016. Well done Sheila.

The next meeting is on February 8 at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. The speaker is Louise Gardner on Silver Jewellery Making and the competition is 'Silver Jewellery'. Do come along you will be very welcome.