Welcome
Welcome to Sutton WI
2024 The year started with the AGM. Ann was re-elected as president and Hilary as treasurer. Jane retired as secretary, being replaced by me, Naomi. The committee has helped to ensure that activities are varied, affordable and well organised. Here is a brief summary of all the things we have been involved in over the last 12 months.
In October, Sutton had a successful Autumn Fayre, raising money for our WI and supporting good causes. Later in the month some members represented Sutton at the Federation meeting in Driffield.
In November, during our monthly meeting, we made some Christmas decorations. Sunday 12th, a wreath, crosses and a cascade were laid at the Sutton War Memorial for the Remembrance Day Service.
In December a group went to visit Burton Agnes Hall, an enjoyable warm up to the Christmas meal the following week at the Kingston Theatre Bar. Michele once again organised some brilliant party games and a gift from Secret Santa! Baubles made by some ladies were hung on and around the Christmas tree at Beverley’s Festival of Christmas, hoping of course to be awarded a mention. Jane’s husband Tony hosted a virtual and challenging quiz in which friends and family were invited to take part. That weekend some members enjoyed a trip to Harrogate’s Christmas shops and markets hoping to find some last minute bargains.
January proved to be a quiet month, until Saturday 27th when a large number of ladies descended on the local Duke of York for afternoon tea.
In February Val organised a “Murder Mystery evening” - starring everyone! It was a chance for all members to be involved in the drama and all had to guess ‘who dunnit?’ Costume, dialogue, food and drink were obligatory and thoroughly enjoyed by all. Thank you Val. Sutton WI donated 181 knitted and crocheted poppies to the Standing with Giants memorial installation, at Stowe Gardens. The 1,475 giants reflected the number of servicemen who died on D-Day itself. This year our members have been knitting and crocheting poppies to decorate the local War Memorial in Sutton, to display a cross, cascade and a postbox cover.
In March Hilary had the ladies crafting letters for the notice board. Sticky-back-plastic glue and wood proved a challenge for the arty and non-arty among us. Sutton WI have been given two notice boards in the church hall. This year and to support the National “Feel the Love” campaign, a display was put on the boards. Members of the craft club donated knitted, crocheted, paper or pictorial green hearts. It was decided that the second board would be a public notice board. Members also voted for the NFWI Resolutions, short listed to four, Sutton ladies voted for Dental Health Matters. During March, Sutton had their annual Spring Fayre. The variety of stalls and refreshments attracted a good number of the public despite the awful weather.
In April, the ladies learnt how to make a terrarium. With help from Sher from Botany Boutique in Hornsea, who brought glass wear, sand, stones and small succulents, members were able to make, take home and care for their new plants. A trip to Myers Beck later in the month proved educational as ladies listened to the aims of the charity that provide agricultural work experience for disadvantaged adults. Many took home cuttings and plants to support their valuable work. Towards the end of this month, visited the Harrogate Flower Show, which allowed us the opportunity to buy plants and garden ornaments which now proudly adorn our gardens!
In May Heather Wheldon showed the members how to make their own bracelets from a wide assortment of beads.
In June, Paul Robinson, better known as the “The Laughing Gardener”, shared his knowledge about his work as a gardener. A question and answer session was enjoyed as members could share their worries and concerns about their own gardens. Naomi (as the link delegate) and Michele attended the NFWI annual meeting at the Royal Albert Hall, London, invited there to represent Sutton WI and deliver the votes of the members. 11th June, The South Holderness Rally, hosted by Hedon WI, was held this year at Eastside Community Sports Club. There were a total of 163 entries from four WI’s. Sutton coming third overall, helped by Michele winning a first for her marmalade. The donated 26 legacy bags were given to St Andrew’s Hospice in Grimsby.
At the July meeting, Ann tested the members on their knowledge of the world, questions relating to flags, films and fables provoked the competitive side of the teams with the promise of prizes; unfortunately for Ann, there were nine ladies who were joint winners and more prizes were needed!
Although no meeting in August, some members managed a couple of get-togethers. Some enjoying a guided tour (with refreshments) round St. Augustine’s medieval Church in Skirlaugh and later in the month a trip to the Yorkshire Lavender Farm near York.
Returning from the summer break, in September, all members were given new name badges. Members had a visit from Stuart Garfoot and his wife as they delivered an interesting and informative presentation on the History of Canal Art. The couple had brought some painted items to buy. As part of the heritage week, some members enjoyed a guided tour of Sutton village keen to learn about its history and architecture. During September, Sheila organised a trip to Goathland and Whitby, a lovely day out not at all spoilt by the rain!
For further information about Sutton WI or any of the groups please email your request to suttonwi@eastyorkshirewi.org.uk. Emails will be responded to as soon as possible but please be patient when waiting for a reply.