Ipsley WI

President, Carol Kinsey welcomed everyone to the September meeting. Special welcome to new member Wendy Reynolds and visitor Janet Williams.

Carol thanked members for the funds raised during the year towards the 50th celebration meal which was held at the Bromsgrove Golf Club in July. A thank you letter has been received from the Women's Hospital Birmingham for the many baby blankets that members had donated for the neonatal unit.

Carol Kinsey and Rita Massey had joined Jackie Gregory at the ACWW at Warwick University which had been a huge success. Members were reminded that the autumn group meeting will be at Cookhill Village Hall on October 4 2.30 pm and group carol service at St Peters Church, Inkberrow on December 8. There is to be a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum Alrewas on November 2 to finish our 50th year Celebrations.

Carol introduced the speaker for the evening, Deborah Critchley who is a Trustee of the Cavell Nurses Trust. We have all heard of British nurse Edith Cavell who during WW1 saved over 200 allied soldiers reach freedom from occupied Belgium. Edith was arrested for treason and imprisoned, later to be executed by firing squad. In 1917 a trust was set up in her memory which is strong today, their aim is to help nurses, midwives and assistants who at sometime in their lives or careers suffer financial hardship or health problems. Many of the people who have received help from the 'Cavell Nurses Trust' go on to raise funds. A wonderful legacy to Edith Cavell. After a very interesting talk, Joy Gammon gave the vote of thanks.

Birthday cake was served for refreshments as we celebrated Betty's 80th birthday.

Flower of the month was won by Jill Gallagher and we had joint winners of the competition for a nurses cap. Janet Cottrill and Carol Kinsey. Carol went on to read some of the letters from guests who had attended the Birthday Meal. Members were reminded of the London trip on October 15 and to note pick up points. Carol closed the Meeting at 10pm.

The WI meet at Winyates Green Community Centre on the second Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. Visitors are welcome to come along and join us.