Tribute paid to long-standing WI member

A minute’s silence was observed as a mark of respect at the January meeting when members were informed by president Lynda Brooks that Winifred had died unexpectedly in England.

Mrs Brooks recalled that Winifred had been a long-standing and valued institute member, before moving to England to be nearer to her two daughters and their families a few years ago.

An active member of Galgorm & Gracehill WI, she had served on committee many times and held the position of Honorary Treasurer on a number of occasions.

Guest speaker at the January meeting, Esther McDowell of “Branching Out” at Galgorm Business Park, demonstrated the crafts of chalk painting and decoupage and displayed a wide range of her own chalk creations as well as take questions from members. She was thanked on their behalf by Elizabeth Bell.

The competition for ‘A Decorated Jam Jar’ was won by Lynda Brooks with Annabel Woodcock placed second and Elizabeth Pritchard and Audrey Steede, third.

Quiz and Bowls teams were selected during the evening and feedback was given about the Afternoon Tea event held in Leighinmohr House Hotel as part of the December meeting.

Reports on the annual Carol Service, outings and trips in the coming months, as well as visits to other institutes were amongst the business matters dealt with and members were reminded that guest speaker at their February meeting will be Samuel Reid who will be talk about the work of the Dogs Trust.