2017 - The Archive
Christmas Party
11th December 2017
Presidents Babs/Susan started our Christmas Party by welcoming our guests, LFWI Chairman Shirley Thornton, President Val and Secretary Margaret from St Annes WI. We were asked to remain standing after Jerusalem, and a short game of “Sit down if...” followed – Julie reading statements like “Sit down if you are an only child” and “Sit down if you've been to the U.S.A.”. Soon, only two members were standing, and after one final question, Jay was declared the winner.
The Committee members performed a short Charleston routine, choreographed by Kat (who had taught members to belly-dance at one of our meetings earlier this year). Members were then invited to join them on the dance floor and take part in four different dance routines. Much fun was had by all.
All too soon, it was time to brave the cold and scrape the ice off our cars for the drive home.
Merry Christmas everyone – and a very Happy New Year!
LFWI Outing - Leeds City Centre & the Marks and Spencer Archive
30th November 2017
I was more than a little apprehensive about this trip since I am not a good traveller on a coach and have spent my life avoiding them, but of course they have come a long way since the bone-shakers of school trips, and the rackety vehicles I've experienced in India, China and even Italy. This was surprisingly comfortable and smooth, so I need not have worried.
We left Leyland at 08.45 and were soon on the M62, the driver making a short detour which had the advantage of avoiding the worst of the inevitable jams on that permanently busy stretch of road. We were dropped off behind Leeds Town Hall just before noon, and then had a couple of hours free to have lunch and explore the city.
We left Leyland at 08.45 and were soon on the M62, the driver making a short detour which had the advantage of avoiding the worst of the inevitable jams on that permanently busy stretch of road. We were dropped off behind Leeds Town Hall just before noon, and then had a couple of hours free to have lunch and explore the city.
If you've never been, Leeds is well worth a visit. Naturally it has all the usual shopping opportunities of any cosmopolitan city, and the Kirkgate market, which first opened its doors in Georgian times, is justly famous: you might easily pass your whole visit there. Indeed many members dashed off to do a spot of shopping, but if that's not your priority, there are plenty of other things to do and see in a city with such a rich and interesting history, with many galleries, museums and parks (though November is perhaps a little too chilly for the latter). I didn't want to shop at all, so saw the new Henry Moore exhibition, which had just opened that day, visited the art gallery, and explored the Leeds Tapestry, a fascinating textile project made by many people to celebrate the 2000 millennium.
At 2pm we all piled back on the bus for the short journey to Leeds University's Michael Marks Building, which houses the company archive. Here our large party was split into smaller groups, and each alternated the different parts of the tour. Both our guides were knowledgable, professional and happy to take questions. |
First we walked round a series of tableau depicting the company's development from its humble beginnings as a Penny Bazaar, run from a barrow. The display cases housed examples of genuine products over the 130+ years the company has been in operation, from everyday sewing items such as buttons and thread, through to their current range of clothing, food and home interiors.
It was fascinating and there were many cries such as "I've got that dinner service and we're still using it!" and "I like that dress, shame they don't still make it, it's not dated at all". |
The groups then swapped places, and over a cup of tea we sat to view a short film of the development of the stores themselves, showing changing logos, premises, marketing development and so on. Points lost here for me since we (a) had paper cups and (b) not a biscuit in sight (Yes, M & S and not even a custard cream!). There was an opportunity to buy from a small range of memorabilia, but no hard sell, then it was back on board for a surprisingly speedy journey back to Leyland.
I hope this little précis might encourage anyone who didn't go to sign up if the trip is ever offered again, and I'd also reassure anyone who "didn't have anyone to go with" that it really makes no difference whether you go alone or with a friend or group of friends: in fact the journey offers a chance to get to know members from other branches, which I really enjoyed. Finally, if you're not familiar with the city I'd recommend you download or print off a map of the centre, to save yourself time.
[Thanks go to Tracey for this report]
Greetings to Buckingham Palace
20th November 2017
Annual Meeting
13th November 2017
After a hearty rendition of Jerusalem, and the usual notices and general information about upcoming events, President Babs welcomed Val and Margaret from St Anne's on Sea WI, who had agreed to act as tellers for the AFWI Annual Meeting this year.
We all enjoyed Secretary Anne's Committee Report, which reminded us of all the things we had done this year, including our success at the County Show and the LFWI Treasure Hunt. It's been another wonderful year!
Babs then thanked her Committee and all the individual members who have helped with the various groups, meetings and events. It really has been a great team effort with so many people contributing to our vibrant and thriving Institute.
Babs then told us that she will not be able to attend all our meetings in the coming year, and proposed that the position of President could be shared. After members votes were taken and counted by our independent tellers, Babs and Susan were elected as our joint Presidents for 2017/18. A great result and lots of exciting times ahead!
We all enjoyed Secretary Anne's Committee Report, which reminded us of all the things we had done this year, including our success at the County Show and the LFWI Treasure Hunt. It's been another wonderful year!
Babs then thanked her Committee and all the individual members who have helped with the various groups, meetings and events. It really has been a great team effort with so many people contributing to our vibrant and thriving Institute.
Babs then told us that she will not be able to attend all our meetings in the coming year, and proposed that the position of President could be shared. After members votes were taken and counted by our independent tellers, Babs and Susan were elected as our joint Presidents for 2017/18. A great result and lots of exciting times ahead!
Our talented Craft Group leader, Linda, then took the floor and showed us lots of Christmassy items that she has made in recent years. Her house must be like Santa's Grotto in December.
Linda then demonstrated a couple of easy decorative Christmas items to us. It seems that she has shares in Poundland and Home Bargains, as almost every item she used had come from one of those stores! I'm sure lots of us went home determined to try to replicate her items - but I doubt we'll be quite so successful as Linda. |
Portofinos Autumn Special
30th October 2017
45 members enjoyed a meal at Portofino's, Lytham. Thanks, once again, to Pat for organising.
'Ladies Who Tour' - Our Visit to BBC Media City
19th October 2017
Our WI is a skilled group. We have ladies who knit, sew, craft, bake, treasure hunt and have many other skills. But now we can add budding actors, presenters and weather forecasters to our list!
Well, maybe not.....as we found on our trip to Media City, it is a skill much harder than it looks.
On a wet October day 22 of our ladies took a coach to Manchester to visit the BBC Media City Tour. Once there we split into two groups, and either before or after our respective tours we availed ourselves of the opportunity to explore the area, shop, visit the Lowry Art Gallery, have lunch and just enjoy ourselves.
On a wet October day 22 of our ladies took a coach to Manchester to visit the BBC Media City Tour. Once there we split into two groups, and either before or after our respective tours we availed ourselves of the opportunity to explore the area, shop, visit the Lowry Art Gallery, have lunch and just enjoy ourselves.
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Then in our respective groups, and with our obligatory photo ID, we were admitted to the tour. It proved excellent and the guides were knowledgeable, entertaining and great fun – especially when encouraging us to have a go.
It began of course, with the not-to-be-missed opportunity to sit in the famous (or is that infamous) Mastermind chair. |
I’ve started, so I’ll finish.... During the tour we saw where certain radio programmes are produced and or guide demonstrated how sound effects are created. Who would have thought that simply shaking rubber would sound like a flight of birds.
Then on to see the sets of Breakfast TV, Match of the Day, Question of Sport NW News and others. This time we tried our hand at using the auto cue to present the news, but by far the hardest task was to present the weather –no script and you have to know your way around the map of the British Isles!
Well ladies, we tried our best ... but will not be looking for jobs at the BBC in the near future. We’ll keep to the skills we know best.
LFWI Walking Treasure Hunt
17th October 2017
On a sunny but blustery afternoon, in the aftermath of Storm Ophelia, ten of us headed to Stanley Park, Blackpool, to take part in the Lancashire Federation's annual walking treasure hunt. We were split into three teams, and set off around the park following the cryptic clues, whilst trying to make sure other teams didn't notice that we'd discovered something!
After we'd answered the 40 questions, we returned to the park's Art Deco Cafe where tea and cake was served whilst the judges totted up the scores.
Amazingly, we were delighted to learn that one of our teams (Maureen, Caroline and Janet) were runners up... But even better, another Ansdell team WON the Treasure Hunt! Well done Babs, Geraldine, Anne and Julie! |
Thanks must go to the hard-working LFWI Leisure and Activities Sub-Committee for a well organised and fun event.
LFWI Board of Trustees 'Food & Flowers'
Lunch with Jonathan Moseley at Chipping
10th October 2017
The idea of having lunch with a group of W.I. ladies from all over the Federation, which included a presentation by the well known floral designer, Jonathan Moseley, is one of delight and joy. Well, it was, but the journey to the event in Chipping can only be described as somewhat perilous! Our drivers for the trip were amazing and on arrival at the Community Centre (somewhat larger than expected and definitely warmer, so very flushed in the woolly pully), were able to recover by sharing their experience with the 85 other diners!
The speaker lives in Derbyshire and he travels throughout the country and abroad demonstrating his skills of floral artistry as a International Demonstrator. He was honoured to be one of the youngest demonstrators to perform at a UK National Floristry Show and has filled theatres across the country ever since with his spectacular large scale designs. We were entranced as the huge displays were created with speed, efficiency and entertainment. Watching these masterpieces manifest before your eyes brings floral theatre to a whole new level. |
The world of flowers is a passion for Jonathan and he employs his love of nature and his garden as a focus for many of his designs. He is a UK ambassador for British flowers and actively promotes British flower farming and growing at all the major UK shows and events when he is demonstrating or lecturing to the floral/horticultural industry.
From the six ladies who attended from our W.I., three of us were lucky enough to win a floral display. After the delight of winning, therein lay the questions of a) how to transport it home and b) at home – where would it fit!!
12th Birthday Meeting - with Senior Moments
9th October 2017
The performance started with Richard Stilgoe and Peter Skellern's song about the Calendar Girls, “Hi, We're the WI” (We're the Institute in its birthday suit...it may need ironing but it still looks cute...).
Their programme is aimed at a more 'mature' audience and whilst we often recognised the melodies, the adaptation of the words had us laughing our socks off. Most people in the room recognised themselves the adapted words of Elaine Paige's “Memory”, “Midnight – I wake up and remember...That I left the door open with the groceries outside...”
We had a great evening, finished off with birthday cake and a last chance to view all the County Show items which had been on display.
We had a great evening, finished off with birthday cake and a last chance to view all the County Show items which had been on display.
Lancashire Federation Craft & Produce Show 2017
27th & 28th September 2017
And it's all over for another year!
Our members scored very highly with their individual items - we took eight first places, seven seconds and ten thirds, and were placed third on the list of the WIs with the highest total number of points overall. Congratulations to everyone who entered something - your points helped our score! Our 'Passage to India' Cooperative display achieved high marks, but we were allocated a really bad position within the room (as you can see, we were squashed in the corner behind the onion table!) A very creditable first attempt and thanks go to all who helped with this project. Our score card is in the Gallery. |
The winners of the Cooperative this year were Quernmore WI, whose display represented 'Murder on the Orient Express'. That, and the two runners-up are shown below:-
Some of our photos... (click the arrows to move through them)
And, at the Closing Ceremony on Thursday afternoon, Shirley Thornton, Chairman of LFWI, presented Janet with the Best Craft in Show trophy, for the second year running. A list of the overall winners can be seen in our photo Gallery. |
Shirley also announced the theme for the 2018 show...
It will be "Out of Africa", so get your thinking caps on - elephants, giraffes, Tutankhamun, Masai warriors - or maybe a few Meerkats! The possibilities are endless!
It will be "Out of Africa", so get your thinking caps on - elephants, giraffes, Tutankhamun, Masai warriors - or maybe a few Meerkats! The possibilities are endless!
County Show Preview Dinner
26th September 2017
The Preview dinner was, as usual, a great opportunity to have a look at all the entries prior to the official opening of the show. Lots of our members found award tickets on their items... a fantastic effort from all concerned. Well done!
Off to the Show...
26th September 2017
Barbara, Caroline, Linda, Maureen and Janet have delivered Ansdell and Fairhaven's entries to Garstang, ready for judging at this year's LFWI Craft and Produce Show.
Photographs of all of our individual entries are available in the Gallery... click HERE. |
Funny Girls, Blackpool
19th September 2017
One of the WI's main aims is to encourage women to experience new things and thus broaden their knowledge on many different subjects. On Tuesday evening, twenty four of our members spent the evening at Funny Girls in Blackpool - certainly a new experience for most of us! How much we learnt, I wouldn't like to guess, but we had a really fun evening and certainly saw lots of things we'd rarely seen before.
Someone let DJ Zoe know that Babs' birthday was imminent, so she was called out to the front for a photo. On hearing that we were all from the WI, Zoe's response was “Oh, is that still going? Where's me jam?”
By the end of the evening, after most of us had made an exhibition of ourselves on the dancefloor, I think he/she realised that the WI is indeed alive and well!
Thanks to Susan for organising the event.
Very Blackpool! And a VERY good night out!
Very Blackpool! And a VERY good night out!
Adventures on Wheels USA - Part 2
11th September 2017
So, our intrepid duo, Yvonne and Matt, came back this year to give us a talk on the second part of their adventure across and along and around parts of the USA. It was fascinating; from towns packed with shops, tourists, townsfolk, hustle and bustle, to the vast plains of parks and mountains, stunning scenery and peace and quiet, with literally no-one around (apart from bumping into a couple from Essex on four separate occasions!). Matt set our ladies a quiz on the logos of well known American companies and products, and he was surprised that so many members knew the answers.
The finale came with Matt appearing as an Elvis look alike and as you can see from the photo, he looked very good. An excellent talk and hopefully we'll see them again to catch up on the final leg of their fantastic journey.
[Thanks once again to Susan for the report]
Motown Canal Cruise
1st September 2017
Our members enjoyed a cruise down the Lancaster Canal, with musical entertainment and fish and chips supper.
The weather was kind to us, and a good time was had by all. Thanks once again to Pat for organising.
Denman Bursaries
A final batch of first timer bursaries is available for the 2017/18 programme year, to be used on open residential courses taking place before 30 September 2018.
Several bursaries of £250 and £300 towards the cost of a residential course are available.
Closing date for applications is 24th November 2017 - full details, and the college brochure, are on the Denman website:-
http://www.denman.org.uk/
Several bursaries of £250 and £300 towards the cost of a residential course are available.
Closing date for applications is 24th November 2017 - full details, and the college brochure, are on the Denman website:-
http://www.denman.org.uk/
Southport Flower Show
17th August 2017
What a fabulous time we spent on the first day of the Southport Flower Show. With an array of wonderful plants, flowers and all things horticultural together with everything garden related and food and household items - we just didn't have enough time to see everything!
The weather was glorious, if a little too hot at times. The show gardens which are led by the show theme each year, and constructed by garden designers and landscapers in just under two weeks, were fantastic. They certainly gave us ideas of what we might aspire to if we ever change our garden design!.
In the Arena, we enjoyed the Eagle and Vulture Experience and whilst enjoying a cup of tea and our lunch, we listened to the music from the Bandstand and from the Piazza Stage.
As you will see from the photos, around the showground entertainment was supplied by some gorgeous young ladies on stilts and various other tall entertainers. In the Celebrity Tent we were fascinated to hear from John Craven and David Domoney and certainly overwhelmed with Charlie Dimmock! |
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Sadly, we were all pooped by the time we had discovered the arena of food and drink at the back of the show, but certainly we have made a date in our diaries for next year, starting earlier and planning a later return! Please join, you will not be disappointed.
Pat, Dorothy, Caroline, Susan, Iris and Maureen
Pat, Dorothy, Caroline, Susan, Iris and Maureen
August Meeting - North West Blood Bikes
14th August 2017
A great turn-out for our August meeting, where Lee Townsend, a volunteer rider for North West Blood Bikes, told us about the charity, which provides an out of hours delivery service for the NHS, taking urgently required blood and other products between hospitals in Lancashire and South Lakes.
We were also joined by Val Andrews, president of St Anne's WI, who gave an interesting report of the proceedings at the WI Annual Meeting in Liverpool in June. |
Afternoon Tea
19th July 2017
Uncle Joe's Mint Balls
10th July 2017
What a great meeting! And not just because the speaker passed round a jar of sweets before he starting talking to us,
John Winnard MBE told us about the Wigan based family firm, which was founded by his ancestor, William Santus, in 1898. John and his brother Antony are the great nephews of the founder and the fourth generation to run the business.
Uncle Joe's are made to a secret recipe, and though their three ingredients are listed on the packaging, only John and his brother know the exact recipe. |
We watched an interesting video presentation showing the factory production of the mints, and John then answered lots of questions from the audience.
It was lovely to hear that a small Lancashire firm - and it IS a small firm, with less than thirty employees - is known all over the world and continues to thrive in a competitive market.
It was lovely to hear that a small Lancashire firm - and it IS a small firm, with less than thirty employees - is known all over the world and continues to thrive in a competitive market.
Jam Jars and Tent Pegs
23rd - 25th June 2017
About 100 WI members from all over the country, came to camp last weekend at the Scouting Centre on Heyhouses Lane.
Eight Ansdell & Fairhaven members had been drafted in to help with traffic management on Friday morning and also to act as judges for the on-site competitions. Of course, it being Club Day weekend, the weather kept us guessing and we were glad we'd worn our waterproofs as we stood in the wind and rain, showing the campers where to park their cars.
We returned in the evening to judge the competitions. Wow! Tables were loaded with entries in categories which included photography, cookery, crafts and FLAVOURED GIN and VODKA! Tracey and Susan had come well prepared to judge the alcohol – neither was driving – and started sipping the 38 assorted bottles on the table. What a task! But someone had to do it. |
We stayed for the evening 'Beach Party' and enjoyed a lovely Jacob's Join supper (or 'fuddle' as they called it). Garlands, grass skirts and huge grins were worn, it was truly a warm and friendly atmosphere.
During the weekend, campers had the opportunity to join in all sorts of activities. A group went to the Rock Factory, others did decoupage, willow weaving, crochet and yoga. The Scouting Centre provided a rifle range and archery - groups went off-site to do Clay Pigeon shooting and Wake Boarding. They had bingo, a talent show and lots of singing and dancing. On Sunday morning some did a guided walk through the sand dunes. And throughout the weekend a patchwork quilt was under construction, with many campers making a section. The quilt was raffled at the end of the camp with the funds raised going to the Denman appeal.
This was the Women's Institute at its very best. Fun – yes... Friendly -yes... Educational – yes... Supportive – yes... Inspiring – ABSOLUTELY
Jam Jars and Tent Pegs intend to return to the Fylde in 2019.
I think some of us might be joining them for the whole weekend next time!
[thanks to members of the Unofficial WI Facebook page for the use of their photos]
Jam Jars and Tent Pegs intend to return to the Fylde in 2019.
I think some of us might be joining them for the whole weekend next time!
[thanks to members of the Unofficial WI Facebook page for the use of their photos]
The Secrets of Handwriting
12th June 2017
Vice President Susan did a splendid job of running our meeting tonight.
Our speaker, Sylvia Wheatley, gave a thought-provoking presentation on the subject of handwriting. In childhood we are all taught to write in the same way, but individual differences develop over the years, apparently without us realising why. Sylvia has studied graphology, and showed us how the slant, shapes and connectedness of writing can give indications of a person's character. It was surprising to learn that some large companies analyse the handwriting of job applicants before deciding whether to employ them.
The talk was illustrated with the examples of the handwriting of celebrities. We weren't at all surprised to see that Donald Trump's signature was very jagged, indicating that he was very aggressive.
Lots of discussion followed the meeting, and several of us decided that to avoid any further analysis of our script, we will be typing everything in future!
Our speaker, Sylvia Wheatley, gave a thought-provoking presentation on the subject of handwriting. In childhood we are all taught to write in the same way, but individual differences develop over the years, apparently without us realising why. Sylvia has studied graphology, and showed us how the slant, shapes and connectedness of writing can give indications of a person's character. It was surprising to learn that some large companies analyse the handwriting of job applicants before deciding whether to employ them.
The talk was illustrated with the examples of the handwriting of celebrities. We weren't at all surprised to see that Donald Trump's signature was very jagged, indicating that he was very aggressive.
Lots of discussion followed the meeting, and several of us decided that to avoid any further analysis of our script, we will be typing everything in future!
Vintage style notebook cover workshop
3rd June 2017
Dianne attended the book cover workshop at the Lancashire Federation offices in Leyland. She reports...
We all had a pleasant day and each managed to produce one backed book and two handmade notebooks out of recycled materials such as wallpaper, brown wrapping paper and lining paper.
We all had a pleasant day and each managed to produce one backed book and two handmade notebooks out of recycled materials such as wallpaper, brown wrapping paper and lining paper.
Shona, the tutor, had asked people to bring vintage cloths, tray cloths, ribbon, lace etc. Most of us imagined that we were going to use these to decorate the book in some way. In fact, we covered the notebooks in much the same way as we used to back our school books in the old days and the results very much depended on what sort of decoration was on the cloth that you brought. One woman brought an embroidered pinny ( yellow and blue) and that worked really well because it had delicate embroidery on.
Simply the Best - The Tina Turner Experience
26th May 2017
A fabulous show at The Lowther Pavilion set in a concert style with a twist as part of the show previews the life story and career of one of the worlds most iconic performers. The show, with state of the art lighting, great sound and video visuals, was just amazing and fully did justice to Tina Turner and her songs.
Julie Nevada, one of the worlds leading Tina Turner impersonators was fantastic, with all the dance moves and facial expressions AND the voice of the great Tina Turner. The wonderful (if slightly ageing) nine piece live band and the gorgeous young dance troupe made the show a wonderful evenings entertainment.
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All nine of us who attended the show, were on our feet and dancing most of the time!
[Report by Susan]
'Walk and Feel Good' - Summer programme
Sheila has planned an interesting programme for our summer walks, with a selection of coastal and rural routes. Details are on the Walking Group page.
Card Making Workshop
13th May 2017
Caroline and Janet attended a workshop at the LFWI offices in Leyland, where they made a selection of pretty greetings cards. The tutor, Lynda, is a member of Lytham Belles WI, so we had lots to chat about while cutting, sticking and sewing. New techniques learned included Iris Folding and fabric applique cards. All looked very professional and we were very happy with our efforts. We both enjoyed the workshop very much and would like to encourage other members to attend these sessions which are a great way to learn new skills and have a bit of "me" time. [report by Janet] |
Details of future courses and workshops are available at our meetings and here.
Warton Hall garden visit
11th May 2017
Warton Hall, a privately owned Georgian manor house on the outskirts of Lytham, opens its gardens to the public in May each year, as part of the National Garden Scheme.
We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and will be returning next year to see how the newly planted areas of the garden have developed. Let's hope we will be as lucky with the weather!
Resolution meeting
8th May 2017
Tonight's meeting started with the vote on the two NFWI resolutions “Alleviating Loneliness” and “Keep Plastic Soup out of the Oceans”, both of which were passed with a large majority. Our votes will be forwarded to our link delegate for voting at the Annual Meeting in June.
Our speaker tonight was Elizabeth Gomm who updated us on the 'Happy House'. This charity, offically named 'The Children of Watamu', was founded by Sue Hayward, a former Blackpool hotelier, and provides a vibrant home and high quality education for destitute children in Watamu Kenya. Many of these children had very sad pasts. One beautiful little boy, Harry, had been discovered as a new-born baby, dumped on a rubbish tip in a plastic bag, Others had been orphaned at a young age and left homeless, as grandparents were unable to cope.
The presentation ended with a video in which several of the children told us how their lives had changed for the better and how much they loved living in the Happy House.
The presentation ended with a video in which several of the children told us how their lives had changed for the better and how much they loved living in the Happy House.
The vote of thanks was given by Julie, and our evening concluded with wine and nibbles.
Lunch at Tiggis
25th April 2017
Once again, Tiggis proved to be a popular venue, and over 30 of our ladies enjoyed a delicious 2 course lunch.
Thanks to Pat and Susan, whose organisational skills meant that everyone got the meal they'd ordered! No mean feat and much appreciated by us all!
New Venue for Book Club
24th April 2017
All members of Ansdell & Fairhaven are welcome to attend the Book Club - full details of our planned programme are on the Book Club page. |
Pinny's Pots
10th April 2017
We were delighted to welcome back Yvonne Pinder this evening speaking about her passion for pots this month instead of her passion for travelling!
Yvonne has been decorating plant pots for over 20 years and it was clear to everyone how much she enjoys it. She demonstrated how she transforms a very plain garden terracotta pot into a stunning piece of art with paper napkins. She had an amazing selection of beautiful napkins and coupled with her artistic talent, Yvonne presented a beautiful and diverse array of decorative pots which were snapped up very quickly by our members.
[Thanks to Susan H. for this report]
Extreme Knitting
8th April 2017
Together with Caroline and Janet I spent a very enjoyable day Extreme Knitting at Lancashire Federation offices on Saturday 8th April (Grand National day). Only one of us had done anything like it before so we weren't entirely sure what we'd signed up for, but we simply armed ourselves with a range of materials and tools, packed lunches and open minds.
The principle, in a nutshell, is to recycle, recycle, recycle, using anything that can be cut into strips to knit or crochet mats, rugs, throws, bags etc., with extra large needles or hooks. It's also a brilliant way to use up all those yarns remnants, of any quantity or thickness, by simply using up to ten strands at a time: this is the simplest as of course it requires no preparation at all.
The principle, in a nutshell, is to recycle, recycle, recycle, using anything that can be cut into strips to knit or crochet mats, rugs, throws, bags etc., with extra large needles or hooks. It's also a brilliant way to use up all those yarns remnants, of any quantity or thickness, by simply using up to ten strands at a time: this is the simplest as of course it requires no preparation at all.
First we were shown how to prepare fabrics such as old t-shirts, fleece, bedding, plastic bags, even video tape for those who still have such things. Our excellent tutor emphasised that absolutely every scrap of material can be incorporated, (you can even use button bands and zips), and that the condition of the items really doesn't matter, as any marks or imperfections in the original fabric are invisible once it's been knitted up. As she put it "all you spend is your time", which is particularly appealing to anyone on a budget or environmentally minded - a great way to repurpose something that you wouldn't give to a charity shop. The only rule about matching weight of material to size of needles is to go up or down a size until you get the look you're after in the finished item.
Once we had our materials ready we just got stuck in and had a bit of a play to get used to using larger tools. Some fabrics are easier to work than others: in my first piece, I combined acrylic fabric with fleece and suede. Suede was the trickiest to manipulate, and was quite hard on my hands, but fleece was just lovely to work with.
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I then went onto using multiple yarns. Caroline used the soft cotton of a cut up nightie, incorporating lace and other trimming materials such as braid to add texture. Janet used a variety of textured and fancy yarns, making a feature of the size label, and even adding some stretchy plastic net i.e. an unrolled shower scrunchy which Tracey had brought (this was brand new I hasten to add).
A technique that might appeal to anyone who finds the giant needles or hooks too heavy or difficult to use would be to make a piece on more familiar sized needles using the birds' nest technique. This is a way to incorporate really quite short lengths of different materials randomly as you knit, creating a highly textured and multicoloured rustic woven look, hence the name. This would be ideal for a twiddle muff or twiddle blanket and if the texture is really interesting and varied you need not sew on so many extra bits and pieces.
The hardest part of the day was letting go of the idea you need a pattern to make something, but once we did it was very liberating not to have to worry about following instructions and maintaining perfect tension. You can be as random or precise as you wish in matching or contrasting colours, and this is a very quick and easy way to make mats, rugs, blankets or throws, pet beds: whatever you like for yourself, others or charity
We all really enjoyed ourselves: it was a lovely, relaxed and creative atmosphere with just the right balance from the tutor between explanation and demonstration, a jolly, generous and friendly group of fellow members, no criticism (because of course you can't make a mistake!), and a welcoming, friendly and attentive LFWI committee member who kept us all well supplied with mugs of tea. We came home full of ideas and so of course simply had to have a pit-stop at a craft emporium..... The icing on the cake was that Caroline had picked the winner of the National: One for Arthur. Sadly though she neglected to put on a bet!
We hope our pictures may inspire others to have a go at Extreme Knitting (or Crochet), and I can thoroughly recommend it to knitters and crocheters of all ability levels.
Do please ask any of us if you'd like to know more.
Tracey Garvey
We hope our pictures may inspire others to have a go at Extreme Knitting (or Crochet), and I can thoroughly recommend it to knitters and crocheters of all ability levels.
Do please ask any of us if you'd like to know more.
Tracey Garvey
Lancashire Federation Weekend at Denman College
23rd-26th March 2017
Linda and Janet had a wonderful few days at Denman, the W.I.'s college, in Oxfordshire.
The course we had chosen was Scandinavian Style Crafting. This meant that we could sit and play with fabrics, threads and other craft materials from 9am until 6pm each day, without having to think about anything else! Total luxury. Classes were interrupted every 90 minutes so that we could recharge our batteries by eating something... The food, as you would expect, was absolutely delicious.
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The weekend was well organised and our hosts for the weekend, LFWI Chairman Shirley Thornton and Denman Ambassador Kay Hopkinson did a marvellous job of making every single person feel welcome and included.
It was a great experience and one which we both hope to repeat at some time in the future.
A copy of the Denman brochure is available at our meetings, or you can see it on the Denman College website.
A copy of the Denman brochure is available at our meetings, or you can see it on the Denman College website.
"Life on the Inside"
13th March 2017
Our speaker tonight was Judith Scott, who until recently was Treasurer for the Lancashire Federation and is currently president for Withnell Fold WI. She has been with the Citizens Advice Bureau for 14 years and also stood as a magistrate.
Judith's talk was entitled "Life on the Inside". She told us about the many times she had to visit Preston Prison and brought to life the layout and the life that the prisoners have to endure.
We were also told how the prisoners love gardening and that the flowers in and around the prison would equal Kew Gardens. Prisoners are also allowed to help out at Southport Flower Show. Judith told a very amusing tale of when she was at the prison and there was an alarm raised. For her own safety the guards locked her in a cell, however there was already a male prisoner occupying the cell. The story was full of humour and it all worked out well in the end.
Judith is a very eloquent and humorous speaker and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Thanks to the speaker was given by Anne B.
Judith's talk was entitled "Life on the Inside". She told us about the many times she had to visit Preston Prison and brought to life the layout and the life that the prisoners have to endure.
We were also told how the prisoners love gardening and that the flowers in and around the prison would equal Kew Gardens. Prisoners are also allowed to help out at Southport Flower Show. Judith told a very amusing tale of when she was at the prison and there was an alarm raised. For her own safety the guards locked her in a cell, however there was already a male prisoner occupying the cell. The story was full of humour and it all worked out well in the end.
Judith is a very eloquent and humorous speaker and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Thanks to the speaker was given by Anne B.
Before the meeting and during the social tea break, members were invited to look at the Sales Table, where small bunnies and chicks made by our Knit & Natter group were on sale. By the end of the evening there were only a few chicks left – these have been donated to the Foodbank for inclusion in their Easter parcels.
[Thanks again to Julie for your report on the meeting]
Who Killed JonBenet Ramsey
13th February 2017
Our speaker tonight was Neil Hendrie, with a fascinating analysis of the murder of Jon Benet Ramsey in December 1996. Neil was aided by his three friends from the Wyre U3A, Susan Schofield, Ann Kelly & Carla Clark.
They presented a convincing case that 6 year old JonBenet was in fact murdered by one or more family members and that the evidence was manufactured to replicate a kidnapping and a ransom. The three ladies recounted various pieces of evidence from the actual witnesses. Later, Neil presented the case that JonBenet was in fact murdered by an intruder. It was suggested that the whole incident was pre-planned and that the perpetrator was never found. The murder remains unsolved.
The topic as always generated many questions and much discussion ensued.
They presented a convincing case that 6 year old JonBenet was in fact murdered by one or more family members and that the evidence was manufactured to replicate a kidnapping and a ransom. The three ladies recounted various pieces of evidence from the actual witnesses. Later, Neil presented the case that JonBenet was in fact murdered by an intruder. It was suggested that the whole incident was pre-planned and that the perpetrator was never found. The murder remains unsolved.
The topic as always generated many questions and much discussion ensued.
[Thanks to Julie for this report and the photos]
Lancashire Federation Fun Quiz
30th January 2017
At the Staining Church of England Primary School, 19 teams took part in the President's Fun Quiz and around the county at 18 other venues, approximately 2000 W.I. members were also taking part in the same quiz.
Twelve “willing” volunteers from our W.I. took part and we are delighted to let you know that one of those teams came second this year. There were some interesting sights at the event; one young lady believing that she was at a knit and knatter group (maybe that helps with the concentration), and some teams sitting on very small chairs which are clearly made for the children at the school.
Twelve “willing” volunteers from our W.I. took part and we are delighted to let you know that one of those teams came second this year. There were some interesting sights at the event; one young lady believing that she was at a knit and knatter group (maybe that helps with the concentration), and some teams sitting on very small chairs which are clearly made for the children at the school.
The evening was fun, professional and civilised and that in part may be due to the consumption of tea and biscuits, rather than wine! The questions were varied and thought provoking – who knew that Dr John Pemberton invented Coca Cola! We do now!
[Thanks to Susan for this report and the photos]
It's All About Food
9th January 2017
Our first meeting of the year was extremely enjoyable, as Stephanie Hodgkinson, a food technology teacher at our local HIgh School, tested our knowledge of portion sizes. Each table was given a set of scales and bowls of various food items - our first task was to decide what constituted a portion of each and then weigh it. Amid much hilarity and gentle argument ("I'd eat twice as much as that!") each table made their decision and then the recommended portion sizes were announced. Some members were awarded gold stars, but others were definitely in the dunce's corner - especially when it came to chocolate.
Everyone agreed this had been a wonderful start to the new year - interesting and educational, combined with a lot of fun. How I wish I'd had teachers like Stephanie!
What a small world
6th January 2017
Happy New Year!
January 2017
President Babs and her Committee wish all our members a very Happy New Year.
Our next meeting will be on Monday, 9th January. Please remember to bring your subscription envelopes to the meeting.
All members will be asked to vote on their preferred Resolution at the meeting. The six resolutions were detailed in the last issue of WI Life, but can also be found here.
As usual we will be collecting donations for the Fylde Foodbank. Their recent letter of appreciation is shown below.
Our next meeting will be on Monday, 9th January. Please remember to bring your subscription envelopes to the meeting.
All members will be asked to vote on their preferred Resolution at the meeting. The six resolutions were detailed in the last issue of WI Life, but can also be found here.
As usual we will be collecting donations for the Fylde Foodbank. Their recent letter of appreciation is shown below.