WI reports

Appleton-le-Moors

Mrs Humpreys presided at the March meeting where members welcomed Gary Brannan from the Borthwick Institute for Archives based at the University of York. He gave an insight into the history of Rowntrees chocolate factory before a story about the Aero Girls of the 1950s. They were a group of women who posed for paintings to be used in the Aero chocolate advertising campaigns. The Borthwick Institute are trying to piece together who the women were and there is still mystery surrounding the paintings that are held in the archives. This month a representative from the local charity Ryedale Dog Rescue will be visiting the branch.

Helmsley

The March meeting was opened by the president, Val Arnold, who welcomed 22 members and two guests. The speaker was Bryan, an expert on tai-chi. He explained the ancient history of tai chi with a series of slides before members had a chance to try the exercises for themselves. The ladies found it relaxing and were keen to learn more. A vote of thanks was given to Bryan by Val and refreshments were served. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, April 28.

Malton

The meeting was opened by secretary Louise Bulmer with 25 members and one guest present. The monthly raffle was held. Marion Elliott gave a talk on the history of circle dancing then there was an opportunity for members to take part in a few dances.

Tea, coffee and homemade cake was then served. The next meeting is about will writing, power of attorney and probate. It will offer sound advice to those who have a will to write or parents to look after. There was an Italian taster evening at Bella Talbot Yard yesterday (Tuesday) and a fashion show on Thursday, April 14 at M & Co. People are encouraged to support the event by popping in to buy a raffle ticket at the shop in Malton where prizes are on display. Visitors are welcome to attend branch meetings at £4 per person. For more information, email Sharon Cawte and Louise Bulmer at maltonwi@hotmail.co.uk

Sinnington

The president, Helen Browes, opened the Mach meeting which was well attended and she welcomed one new member. Matters under discussion included NFU resolutions, an appeal for Ryedale Show volunteers, a plea from WI House for members to knit for the Tour de Yorkshire – small children’s jumpers that can then be strung together to make bunting and then be sent to the refugee centre. An invitation was received to Middleton Village Hall’s open evening today (Wednesday) to hear Dawn Johnson of Sinnington WI, give a talk at 7.15pm called Sinnington to Chelsea and Back. The trip to Tennants has been confirmed for Thursday, April 28. The summer meeting will be at the Esk Valley Theatre and there were discussions about the Queen’s 90th birthday. A talk given by Andy Paton, and his support team Nicky and James, entitled Botton Village. It was the first Camphill centre and the largest of the nine urban and rural communities set up by the UK charity. It supports adults with learning disabilities, mental health problems, helping people in their home life, work, social and cultural activities. He mentioned 40th anniversary celebrations of the Croft community based in Malton with numerous events involving the community and visitors. The trust receives no funding from central or regional government or local authorities. For all events and news about the charity visit The Camphill Village Trust website. This month’s event is Dickens Society. New members are always welcome to join the branch which meets at 7pm on the second Thursday of the month in the village hall.