The start of January was wet and cold (even a few flurries of snow!) but by the end when we were celebrating our WI's 75^th Birthday party it felt a lot warmer and definitely first signs of Spring in the countryside.

The speaker this month was David Lassman, a local historian, who gave a presentation to us on “Foul Frome”!  A very interesting talk including some history of law and order, local murders and general affray in central Frome. He included many pictures which look barely unchanged today.

Members were reminded that we hold a bursary which they can apply to use for any "educational" purpose.  They may wish to do something locally during the day or perhaps put it towards a residential event.  It was also decided to continue with the monthly raffle and suggested that if members so wish to bring a 'gift' to the February or March meeting.

The Programme Planning Meeting was held on 18 January.  Thank you especially to the new ladies who came along and gave us a fresh look at what speakers to invite and events to organise.  The draft programme is looking promising and hopefully in the next month or so will be finalised, ready for the start of our new year in April.

Our 75th Birthday celebration was held at The Bell in the skittle alley.  A fun and enjoyable evening with lots of skittle playing (with a varying number of skittles being knocked down!!) and much laughter and chatter. We had cake with candles and sang "Happy Birthday" to ourselves.  Will the WI be meeting in 75 years time (2099!!)?  Our membership is in the high 30's so we are thriving and have been very pleased to welcome some younger ladies!

Our Speaker on Monday 12 February is Nancy Freeman giving us a demonstration on Japanese crafting.  In March we are having a talk on Iceland.

The annual Village Litter Pick will be on Saturday 16 March in the afternoon.  There will be more details later but all local people are very welcome to join in.  It is sad when walking on the lanes to see so much rubbish has been dumped.

We are a friendly group of ladies of all ages and welcome visitors and new members.  Please do come along and see if it is for you!  We meet the second Monday evening of the month in the Memorial Hall at 7.30pm.  Just turn up or contact Caroline on 01373 812889 for further information.  

 Wishing  our Members, their families and friends all the very best for 2024.

Looking forward to our first meeting on Monday 8 January at 7.30pm!