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25. The Women's Institute
IRIS ELEY

Thurlow W.I. has twenty members and meets on the second Tuesday of each month. The committee consists of the President (Mrs. Sylvia Robinson), Vice President (Mrs. Dorothy Clark), Treasurer (Mrs. Jean Lansdell), Secretary (Mrs. Margaret Ince) and seven others.

The W.I. was formed in 1946 with many more members than today ­ there were, for example, forty-two in 1952. Five of the founder members remain: Dora Rowlinson, Cherry Rising, Rene Sargent, Belle Thomas and Joan Smith.

Speakers are invited to present various topics at each meeting, except in May when national issues are discussed and voted on, and in December which is when we hold the Annual General Meeting. Examples of some recent talks are: A treasure trove at Ashdon, The history of vegetables, Behind the scenes in dress making couture and A wildlife photographer's year. Outings are sometimes arranged but because of the small number of members short trips to local inns for a meal are favoured. In 1997, for example, we went to the Cherry Tree, Stradishall for Christmas, and the Hartest Rose and Crown on one summer evening to celebrate our 50th anniversary.

Each year members have the opportunity to join with the rest of Suffolk West at the A.G.M. in Bury St. Edmunds and the Autumn Council Meetings. The national meetings are held at the Albert Hall, the Birmingham Centre or various regional venues.

 

Taken from page 117

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