Eaton Bray W.I.

Posted on September 12, 2011

Deirdrea welcomed the members back after the Summer break and also wecomed Roz who joined us that evening.

Everyone agreed that the outing to Sulgrave Manor, the home of George Washington's ancestors, was a great success. From the moment that the coach arrived until its departure, we were looked after. Everything was done to make sure that we had the best possible time, with attention to every detail. The house tour visiting the Great Hall, kitchen and bedchambers among the furniture and artifacts of the period, plus the other rooms depicting the era of George Washington, were made so interesting by Simon a most informative guide (quite a charmer too). The two hour tour just fl ew by and when Simon referred to the "shapely legs" in each room, he looked at Dorothy not the furniture! Walking through the village which was friendly, picturesque and so peaceful. Entering the small church there, the feeling of calm and peacefulness was so welcoming.

The September meeting saw Paul Hancock as the speaker (who stepped in at the last minute), showing slides on the National Trust and specifi cally the Chiltern Gateway Centre at Dunstable Downs. The area around the centre offers so much, the views, wildlife, various types of orchids, red kites as well as the fresh air activities of kite fl ying and gliding. The centre itself offers many facilities, with a National Trust shop, selections of food to buy, an excellent cafe, gifts, jewellry etc. It also runs many events during the year.

It was with great regret that the members said goodbye to Gladys Ruffet, a most loyal and supportive member and the longest serving member of Eaton Bray WI, who is moving away at the end of the month. She was presented with a London carriage clock and cards which the members had signed, plus cards for her new home. She will be greatly missed, especially as a person who always said thank you for everything that was done.

Helen was thanked for hosting the coffee morning which raised £150, a great result and grateful thanks go to all those who supported it. Next months meeting is on Monday 3rd October at 7.30pm at the Eaton Bray Methodist Hall,when the speaker will be Tony Woodhouse on 'Ghosts'. New members are always welcome. Why not come and try.

Source: Focus, October 2011