After a gap of three years, the ladies of the Lower Bann Women’s Institutes were delighted to meet together recently in Aghadowey Presbyterian Church Hall for their Area Meeting.

Area

Chairman Jennifer Gardiner welcomed everyone including past Executive Member Mrs Helen Jamieson who was acting in place of current Executive Member, Mrs Susan Lyons, who was unable to

be present.

Anne Ramsay of Aghadowey WI being presented with the Jubilee Rose Bowl by Helen Jamieson

placeholder image — Anne Ramsay of Aghadowey WI being presented with the Jubilee Rose Bowl by Helen Jamieson

The guest speaker was Miss Emma Hutchinson, teacher, photographer and artist from Kilrea. Emma gave a most interesting presentation which included her stunning photography of the scenery and wildlife of her trip to South America in 2019.

Doreen Campbell, Garvagh Women’s Institute President, gave the vote of thanks to Emma.

Everyone then enjoyed a chat and a lovely supper provided by Aghadowey WI. After supper, Institute reports were given by the secretaries from Ballyrashane, Kilrea, Macosquin and Portstewart

Women’s Institutes. Sub-committee reports were given by Helen Jamieson, Mary Gibson and Betty Hazlett and the Executive report was given by Helen Jamieson.

Garvagh President, Doreen Campbell thanking the speaker Emma Hutchinson

Helen then presented the awards. Craft ribbons were presented to Lily Swinson (Macosquin), Sharon Moon (Kilrea), Liz Barry (Kilrea) and Betty Graham (Kilrea). The Jubilee Rose Bowl, awarded

for a pot of homemade marmalade, was won by Anne Ramsay from Aghadowey WI. Sheena Gilmore from Kilrea WI won the Meta McAuley Painting awarded for handwriting.

The Chairman of the Area congratulated all the prize winners.

Jenny Creelman, Macosquin President, gave a comprehensive vote of thanks and the singing of A Countrywoman’s Song brought a very enjoyable evening to a close.