Winthorpe Women's Institute Minutes 1954 - 2005

1954

 2nd Feb     First monthly meeting of Winthorpe WI held in the Village Hall. There were 37 ladies present. The sponsor of the branch, Mrs. Sheldon, opened the proceedings welcoming Mrs. Ernest Knight VCO of Fardon. Mrs. Knight outlined activities of other WI’s from her vast experience. The Committee was formed by ballot and 12 members appointed. (Sheldon, Gent, Gardiner, Baxter, Bradley, Cranmer, Mills, Miss Batty, Camomile, Scott, Morgan, Houghton. Mrs. Sheldon was elected President by ballot.)

 8th Feb      First committee meeting held at Mrs. Sheldon’s house. Things discussed:

                   Refreshments – After a short discussion it was decided to charge 3d for a cup of tea and a sandwich.

                   Sunshine Box – This is still in existence today, nowadays we visit any sick member with a card and a gift card. There is no explanation of how it was used in 1954. 

 6th Apl       The second meeting it was proposed that two members should be asked to attend Denman College and an allowance of  £6 would be allocated, the remainder being provided by the chosen members. Also at that meeting an inclusive charge of 1/6d would be made for a visit to East Stoke, this would allow a 5/- tip for the driver.

 8th Apl       Outings – A decision was made to visit Windermere for a summer outing.

13th May    Newark Group – Winthorpe was informed that it was attached to Newark, Coddington, North & South Clifton, Girton and Thorny.

31st May    At the third meeting it was noted that the fee for hiring the village hall was raised to 15/-.

 1st July     Mrs. Mills the rep to the AGM at the Albert Hall, Nottingham gave an account of her visit and the Queen Mother's address and expressed her appreciation at being chosen to attend.

                   Letter received asking for pen friends from America. Mesdames Scott, Couplands and Mills decided to write.

10th Nov    Pen friends to send gifts to America.

15th Nov    The Sunshine Box was discussed and it was decided to give small gifts to anyone in the village that was ill.

 8th Dec     Birthday Party – Members were to be asked to pay 1/- each towards the birthday party in February and to have games for entertainment.

 

1955

July           The Drama Group must have been formed immediately the WI came into being for on 9th May 1955 we read that the sum of £4-15-9 was made from the recent plays by the Drama Group.

                   Also on the 11th July 1955 it was decided to pay the bill for the electric lights, which were damaged at the hall during the plays. At this time the WI were busy holding parties for anyone over the age of 65.

                   It is also interesting to note that Mrs. Morgan, Mrs. Frew, Mrs. Scott and Mrs. Pack were members at this time.

 

1956

Nov            The Sunshine Box was under discussion again when it was agreed that sick people had to be over 15 years of age to receive a visit and a gift.

13th Dec    Suggested programme for 1957 was read out with a proviso for alterations due to petrol rationing.

 

1957

14th Mar     The Group meeting is to be in October and the competition is to be a dressed doll 16" high.

Apl             It was reported that 44 members had paid subscriptions and some were still outstanding.

July            A children’s party was held in the village hall for tea and then the party adjourned to the cricket field for games etc.

10th Oct     Group Meeting – Mrs. Sheldon (President) said the meeting was successful and Winthorpe WI had won the competition for dressed doll and would hold the plaque for one year.

14th Nov    Mrs. Sheldon re-elected as President.

 

1958

Sept           Mrs. Sheldon, the President purchased a canning machine for £3. This meant that each member would get three free cans. It had been tried out at Mrs. Gent and found to be most satisfactory.

 

1959

 9th Apl       Drama – Winthorpe won the silver cup at the Drama Festival.

 June          Cricket Match – Husbands v wives. If wet a whist drive in the Village Hall.

 Nov           The committee requested the secretary to write to the Trustees of the Village Hall to ask for a reduction in the charge of 15/- to bring the WI into line with the charge made to other organisations.

 

1960

Jan             Mrs. Gent announced the Notice Board was ordered for The Spinney.

                   Reply to the request for reduction in charge rejected. But the letter from the Trustees suggests that all organisations have a grand prize draw for hall improvements.

Feb            It was suggested that a piano be bought for the WI and an advertisement to be put into the paper.

Mar            Mrs. Pulfrey had found a good piano for £15 and it was decided to buy it and Mrs. Pulfrey to arrange to get it tuned.

Apl             Piano voted very satisfactory. Mrs. Sheldon said cost would be about £3 and Mrs. Walker and Mrs. Thacker had given gifts of money towards the cost and a charge of 5/- would be made for anyone wishing to use it.

14 July      Bell – A call to order the bell was given by Mrs. Briggs.

 8th Dec     Birthday Party – Food – 12 doz rolls, butter, ½ lb cheese, hotel biscuits, cooked ham, cooked tongue, salt, mustard and salad cream. Lettuce, tomatoes, beetroot, eggs, cress etc. Each committee member made a trifle for which she was paid, Birthday cake made, iced by Miss Gerrard. Crockery was hired from Swindlers, North Gate. Medium plates 6 doz. glass dishes for trifle, 6 doz cups and sauces. Admission to party 2/6.

                   Throughout 1960 the question of buying a piano is high on the agenda. Mrs. Suter, Puffey and Frew raised £10-10-0 at a social to pay for the piano.

 

1961

Jan             WI Crockery – Samples of cups, sauces and plates showing a WI crest were approved and sent for. Costs being approximately £11 including purchase tax and posting.

Nov            New committee elected and Mrs. May Newton was elected president.

Dec            Letter to the Rural District Council and County Council to have the village pond cleaned out to get rid of rats as people was dumping rubbish in it.

                   Piano tuned at a cost 2 Guineas.

 

1962

July            Cricket Match – Ladies won by 7 runs. 30lbs of sausage were used and the profit was £1-7-2.

Dec            Mrs. Morgan presented Mrs. Newton with a box of cigarettes as a token of  appreciation for her years work.

 

1963

Mar             Birthday Party – Village Hall completely frozen up in February and suggestion made to move it to April next year to avoid bad weather.

13th June   Newark WI market stall final details to be opened each Wednesday from 10 to 12 noon. Special labels and wrapping must be used.

Oct             Main road into the village was cut by the Newark by-pass. Bus service reduced considerably causing hardship. A resolution was proposed by Mrs. Morgan and seconded by Mrs. Briggs to give the village either a bridge or underpass for vehicles to cross the by-pass. Copies were sent to Mansfield NCC and Newark RDC.

Dec            Gift of cigarettes for Mrs. Newton.

 

1964

Mar             Letter from NFWI that each institute is to send an extra 6d to the Federation. It was decided that this should be sent from WI funds and not individual members.

Apl             A letter was sent to the Director of Education urging the village school to be kept open.

Oct             A WI choir to be formed and the meeting held on October 14th. The choir hope to give their first performance at the December meeting.

10th Dec     Mrs. Bennett elected president.

 

I965

11th Feb     Winthorpe WI invited to send a member to the Royal Garden Party and Mrs. Pulfrey was chosen as a result of a ballot.

 8th Apl      Mrs. Morgan requested that the Parish Council have a notice board at the Woodlands end of the village. This is proving difficult as it is an expensive item, around £12 and secondly not easy to find a site.

May            This was the Golden Jubilee Year for the NFWI. Two of our current members are named in the minutes, Mrs. Hopewell and Mrs. Morgan. The latter being named as the elected captain for a forthcoming cricket match. The ladies beat the men and in September a return match was played and once again the ladies were triumphant.

                   The committee was looking into the cost of folding tables for the hall.

                   The local over 60’s and widows were given an outing by the WI and then treated to supper in the Village Hall.

                  Concern was expressed at the low entries for the competitions.

                   A choir was formed at the end of 1964 and was making great headway, in 1955 being asked to perform in local churches and a choir festival at Farndon. In May 1956 they came first in Southwell Music Festival.

                   A campaign to improve the Village Hall was suggested and approved unanimously. A letter was sent to the Parish Council.

                   Some of our members were nominated for the Executive Committee.

 

1966

                   Another current member was named in 1966, Mrs. Barbara Nelson, when she was congratulated on the birth of her daughter.

                   Funds were raised for the choir and piano. This piano was a gift through the kind office of Mr. Leach and Mrs. Knighton.

                   The annual cricket match was played between husbands and wives. The wives were beaten for the first time in four years.

 

1967

                   40 members attended the meeting.

                   The Institute was still collecting for other causes, for example 3d pieces in smartie tubes, a national appeal.

                   For the birthday party everyone paid 9/- and the raffle cost 6d.

                   Outings were discussed because members were putting forward names and not turning up on the day. It was noted that in future anyone who did this must be held responsible for the expenses.

                   In July there was a Grannies evening. Whist drives were a regular feature.

 

I968

Jan             Before the committee meeting the President Mrs. Pulfrey read out a letter from the County Chairman with regard to the foot and mouth disease, which stated that we should think seriously of cancelling our meetings in view of the epidemic. However after discussion it was decided that as we are not a truly rural institute there would be no point in cancelling our local meetings.

                   The cost of engraving the cup ‘Choir Festival’ was 9s 6d and this was approved.

Mar            Outing to Nottingham to see the Black & Minstrel Show.

                  Newark Show Competition – A subcommittee was set up. This included Mrs. Morgan, Mrs. Suter and the Secretary.

                   It was proposed by Mrs. Wetherill that we gave a bursary to Denman College.

Apl             A bursary is approved, £5 5s. This was as a result of Mrs. Randall attending a Conductor of Choirs course. It was approved by all.

                   The date for the OAP’s outing was fixed for the 27th June.

June           Monthly Competition So few people entered the competition that it was wondered if a 1d fine for not entering would be a good idea.

July            The OAP’s thoroughly enjoyed their trip and the supper that followed.

                   The President reported that the Choir had been successful at the recent music festival in West Bridgford and would be going to Leeds on the 5th November.

Sept           Everyone enjoyed the Car Rally.

                   Mrs. Randall to check the forthcoming County Choir Service to see if the choir could take part.

                   The President has received details regarding an outing abroad for 1969. The trip to Austria in June 1969 would each cost £30.

Oct             The Choir hopes to take part in the Choir Concert in Nottingham. Mrs. Morgan-Jones will sing a solo.

                   The Secretary has arranged for an evening meal at The Lord Nelson. The cost will be £1 including wine.

Dec            Sunshine Box – It was proposed that as funds were very low it should be stopped completely and cut out visiting husbands or the elderly as this was becoming a mammoth task.

                   Mrs. Bennett congratulated Mrs. Randall and the Choir on their wonderful achievement on getting through to the Albert Hall performance of  ‘The Brilliant, The Dark’. Mrs. Wetherill proposed that the institute to pay for the transport to London and this was seconded by Mrs. Bennett.

 

1969

Feb            The singing of Jerusalem has been dropped and some members had complained. A vote was taken and the ‘for’s’ won and Jerusalem was to be sung at every meeting.

Mar             It appears that the canning machine had become a liability and Mrs. Morgan was involved in finding a buyer.

Dec            WI members were asked to help the Parish Council in the compiling of a Village Scrapbook. Also at this meeting Mrs. Morgan felt we should send a resolution to the County Office for the Spring Council Meeting “This WI deplores that as housekeepers of the nation we do not wish to enter Common Market.” The resolution was put to the meeting 12 in favour and 1 abstained.

 

1970

Jan             The resolution was unable to be put forward to County because of unforeseen circumstances, but a resolution from Bingham WI practically covered our own resolution, had been put forward and Winthorpe agreed to second it. Another current member Mrs. Bark was to attend Coddington birthday party.

Apl             Mrs. Morgan spoke on the possibility of preserving the Alms Houses in the centre of the village. It was decided that we as an Institute should try and preserve these cottages.

                   Mrs. Bennett kindly offered to present a cloth for the President’s table that Mrs. Wetherill and Mrs. Randall offered to embroider. The same cloth is still in use today.

                   During I970 the WI was very concerned that the choir should be helped financially, the cost of coaches was quite a worry. Coffee mornings, Tea Parties and Jumble Sales were held to support them in their endeavours.

Nov            Throughout the 1970’s there were numerous letters passed back and forth to the Village Hall committee. One meeting was cancelled because it was felt that the Village Hall was in great need of decorating and the WI was ashamed to invite a speaker to such a place. A further letter felt there should be more chairs and pointed out that the hall was being ‘hired’ not ‘loaned’ and there should be enough chairs to go round.

 

1971

Mar             Decimalisation – Tea 1p (½p for a second cup) Rolls 1p. Scones ½p and Mince Pies 1½p.

                   Two resolutions were sent to County for the Council Meeting.

                   1.       “This meeting deplores the use of indelible markers on tinned and other goods in shops and proposes the practice be discontinued.”

                   2.       “This meeting deplores the introduction of metrification in many small ways even before the Bill has been passed through Parliament and that it not be used for domestic measures i.e. kitchen and in yardage for material.”

                   Once again these “went astray” in the post and despite a second letter to County it was doubtful if they could be accepted at this late stage.

 

1972

Mar            Mrs. Weatherill was given a vote of thanks for the beautifully embroidered cloth she had worked for the President’s table. The cloth was kindly given by Mrs. Bennett. At this meeting Mrs. Randall proposed that we complain about the use of Winthorpe Park as a name for a building site on Winthorpe Road. A letter was sent off immediately after a unanimous vote. At the AGM, membership stayed around 46 although only an average of 22 attended.

 

1973

Jan             The Committee dinner was held at the Lord Nelson and now costs £1.38 per head.

Apl             Mrs. Morgan and Mrs. Suter organised working parties for the tidy village competition.

May            Tennis – Mrs. Morgan and Mrs. Kingdom through to the final of the County Tennis tournament.

                   Four members took part in a caravan weekend.

                   Newark Show Competition – Mesdames Large and Hambling were awarded 87 points for their entry.

July            Cricket Match – WI v Husbands and also that month an OAP’s party.

Dec            The President reminded members to show their respect for speakers at the monthly meetings and to keep their chatter to a minimum.

 

1974

Jan             The Choir was still in operation and would be entering for the Music Festival on March 16th.

May            Birthday Party – Held in the school hall. Seats too low, sweets not up to standard, coffee too strong, an objection to queuing for food.

July            Choir Festival – Awarded third place and asked to sing for the Christmas meeting.

Sept           The Committee discussed whether to continue with the over 60’s parties, it was felt some people found it quite embarrassing.

 

1975

Apl             21st Birthday Party – It was proposed to hold a dinner at The Old England, Sutton-on-Trent and to invite husbands,

Sept            It was agreed to offer the WI stage to the Youth Club so presumably the Drama Group had drawn to a close.

                    A letter was sent to the Sports Secretary submitting an application to join the darts team. The first darts team Mesdames Morgan, Gilbert, Spencer, D. Hallam, P. Hallam, Birchley, Clarke, T. Treherne and Hambling.

 

I976

Sept            This saw the start of the Pretty Parcel Competition for Christmas and to be donated to Charity. The Institute had a regular Christmas Fair with various stalls which was held in the school. They were also active in several community projects e.g. quizzes, skittles and cricket matches.

                    A letter was sent to Newark District Council on increases in car parking. A reply said it had been considered but increases were to go ahead.

 

1977

Apl             A theatre visit to see Fiddler on the Roof.

June           The WI provided a Jubilee Tea for the Old Age Pensioners and the Children.

Oct              Subscriptions to rise to £1.75.

 

1978

Jan             Mrs. Clarke presented a Petition regarding the transporting of live animals to the continent which is to be sent to Mr. Ted Bishop, MP for Newark.

 

1979

Apl             The 25th Birthday was celebrated at the Lord Nelson.

June           A Cricket match was held WI v The Cricket Club to raise funds for two seats in memory of two former members.

 

1980

Jan             Mrs. Francis Kelly won through to the finals of the Public Speaking competition.

June           The start of Focal Point – Mrs. Shapley gave a report as to the layout etc.

  

1981

Mar             The Choir seems to have ceased performing when Mrs. Randall became ill. A donation was given to Focal Point. Five charities were recipients of donations from the Institute. A protest letter was sent to a Mr. Tuckman with regards to the  stoppage of the ‘daily doorstep pinta.’ An acknowledgement was sent by his secretary but no decision was noted. The following month it had been recorded that there had been replies from Mr. Tuckman and also Mr. Peter Walker the Minister of Agriculture, but it gave no clue as to the result.

 

1983

Jan             Beautiful Britain Competition – The telephone kiosk was chosen and Mrs. Shapley offered to undertake the task of looking after it.

May            Mrs. Morgan proudly displayed the plaque she had received for supervising the WI market stall for 20 years.

 

1984

May            At the Group Meeting held at the Youth Club it was pointed out at the Committee Meeting that we would have insufficient chairs to seat all of the guests from other institutes. 

                   Mrs. Cynthia Morgan kindly offered the loan of the Village Hall chairs at 5p per chair, Mrs. Leach said she would ask her husband if he would be good enough to transport them from the Village Hall to the Youth Club.

 

1985

Mar             Blankets were made for Ethiopia by the WI.

 

May            Money was donated to the Maldives fund and they collected labels for training Guide Dogs.

July            A visit was made to Newark Parish Church, the Church Treasury and also the Town Hall.

 

1986

Mar             Tidy Village – Mrs. Kelly attended a very poorly attended meeting in the village. Members were asked to keep the fronts and gardens of their own properties tidy and the village in general.

                    Mrs. Finn kindly offered to maintain the telephone box.

Apl             Mrs. Kelly kindly offered the use of her garden barn for a summer BBQ, proceeds to go towards the Denman College repairs.

July            A visit to the Newark Parish Church and the Church Treasury.

Sept            Mrs. Gold and Hambling will form a small committee to organise a Christmas Pantomime.

                    The WI embroidered a panel for a wall hanging.

 

1987

July            The WI helped to raise money for the Church roof and they also knitted squares for blankets for the ACWW.

Sept            The WI visited the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.

Dec             The Pantomime Cinderella was produced.

 

I988

Mar             A donation was made to the Village Hall. Mrs. Francis Kelly resigned as President and thanked the Committee for all their help.

Apl             Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield, our newly elected President, welcomed members to her first meeting.

May            Members were told about the speculation of the closure of the Newark Hospital Maternity Wing. It was agreed as an institute to sign a petition. Members were also urged to do so personally.

June           Forms were now available for the completion of signatures regarding the Newark Hospital Maternity Wing.

July            Members visited the garden of Mrs. Dolenz. We had a White Elephant Stall at the Church Centenary There was a petition passed around about the closure of the Newark Hospital Maternity Wing.

Sept            Mrs. Chipperfield read a letter sent by Jackie Topliss to Dr. Gillian Todd regarding the Newark Hospital Maternity Wing, raising objections from Nottinghamshire WI, nevertheless, to no avail.

Oct              Members were informed that Mrs. Peggy Hambling had died.  Peggy was a dearly respected member, committee member and past President Two minutes silence followed by the singing of Jerusalem played on Peggy’s piano by Mrs. Sylvia Lloyd.

  

1989

July            There was an outing to Doddington Hall. Also in July the Darts Trophy was won by Winthorpe.

A plaque was purchased for Peggy’s tree and be put in place in due course. The planting ceremony to take place on Sunday at 10 am,

Oct             Presidents were called together regarding a proposed resolution for the next AGM to make the WI a limited company. Literature regarding this was obtained from County House. Mrs. Frances Kelly agreed to peruse this and report to us. Mrs. Kelly pointed out that this would have certain benefits and was basically a sensible idea since, at present, any committee or trustee could be held personality liable if the charity went bust.

 

1990

July            A Leukaemia Research Box in memory of Claire Milroy was placed on the table so that members could contribute.

Sept           A White Elephant stall at the Church Garden Party raised £30.46. Members enjoyed a Strawberry Cream and Wine Supper,

Dec            Mrs. Cynthia Morgan mentioned that our picture required cleaning and that the frame was in need of repair. It was agreed that it must be restore and also the curtains were deemed to be beyond repair and should be discarded.

 

1991

Apl             Mrs. Ann Page is to look into the possibility of evening rambles.

May            The first evening walk arranged by Mrs. Ann Page.

June           Visit to Museum – 16 members of 5 husbands. Miss J. Cassidy proved to be a mind of information in the agricultural section, identifying the various gadgets and machinery. Members born in Newark recalled how it used to be swimming in the Trent and the buildings firms used to occupy.

Sept           Mrs. Cynthia Morgan asked where the new hospital was to be sited.  A lively discussion followed.

                   Members were asked to knit ‘jhuggies’ for babies in India. 40 garments were knitted.

Oct             The Village Hall Committee has decided that the Village Hall is now not suitable for Jumble Sales.

Nov             A sponsored ‘Knit In’ was held at the home of Mrs. Sylvia Lloyd for the NSPCC. £80 was raised.

                    It was suggested at the committee meeting that a letter be forwarded to the Village Hall committee to request a WI key for the Village Hall.

 

1992                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Jan             A minute’s silence was observed for Mrs. Gwen Rawlinson, one of our members.

Mar             Mrs. Daphne Marshall agreed to be our President.

 

1993

Jan             A special resolution for WI’s to retain 50% of the subscription paid was voted against.

Oct             Members were advised that the purchase of new cups and saucers was underway.

 

1994                                                                                                                                      

Apl             40th Anniversary of Winthorpe WI, a happy occasion, photographs were taken.

June          Cups and saucers have now been purchased. 5 dozen for £193.

July            It was agreed that the piano could be repaired.

 

1995                                                                                                                                  

Feb            Members were asked to knit ‘jhuggies’ for Nottingham Police to take them to Bosnia on the 31st March.

Apl              A VE Party was our birthday then to mark 50 years after WW11.

July           Church Garden Party – Red White & Blue theme to mark this special year.

Sept           Members were asked to fill shoeboxes with toiletries and packed food for the police to take to Bosnia.                       

 

1996                                                                                                                                                                

Apl             Members had a ‘Royal Party’ to celebrate the Queen’s birthday. Crowns, jewels and jewellery were on display. The hall was decorated in red, white and blue. Members and guests thoroughly enjoyed this.

June          Bell Ringing – Mr. Geoff Wells conducted a tour of All Saints' Church Bells for the fit and able.

July           Mrs. Jo Crutchley organised a promotional fortnight to promote new members for the Winthorpe WI. Members were also asked if they would like to purchase a share in the 50/50 club for £10. The majority welcomed this.

                   A Treasure Hunt through Newark was organised by Mrs. Barbara Nelson. A most enjoyable evening was spent with members dashing up and down Newark Town Centre with sets of clues (one member was found in a fish and chip shop - we think she had a different set of clues to the rest of us!).

Nov            The problem of obtaining a key for the hall was discussed.

Dec            Members were entertained by the Committee and five co-opted members to perform the 12 Days of Christmas.

 

1997                                                                                                                           

May            A letter was sent to Mr. Morgan suggesting that the President holds a key for the Village Hall.

June          Mr. Morgan replied that it was not necessary for the WI to hold a key.

                   21st Launch of the Millennium Fund with the WI running the raffle and the teas. £127 was raised.

Oct             A Jumble Sale raised £75 for the Millennium Fund.

Nov            Donations were collected in envelopes for the Diana Princess of Wales fund.

 

1998                                                                                                                         

Jan             It is hoped that the WI will at last be allowed to hold a key for the Village Hall in their 44th year.

                   Mrs. Margaret Hewitt kindly agreed to write the monthly reports for the Focal Point and the Newark Advertiser.

 

1999                                                                                                                      

Feb             It was suggested a box be prepared for the Millennium and fitted with photographs, Focal Point, WI cup and saucer etc to be put away and saved. Also a tablecloth is to be made for this occasion.

June           An inventory of the WI pottery by Mesdames Chipperfield and Crutchley that hardly any of the original cups remained.

Nov            First 'Banner Meeting' – the banner will depict the Fleet Group each WI designing and embroidering for their own village. Mesdames Chipperfield and Lloyd attended.

                  Members approved of the clock purchased for the Community Centre by the WI.

 

2000                                                                                                                          

Jan             A social evening was held for the event. Candle of friendship was lit and Mrs. Dys Gold delivered some well chosen words on friendship.

                   Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield baked the millennium cake ably decorated by Mrs. Jo Crutchley.

Feb            Mrs. Karen Marsh VCO attended the meeting because we felt we were in danger of closing due to the lack of interest in forming a committee.

Apl              Items were sent to Kosova.

                   A by-law suggesting Officers serve no longer than three years was drawn up.

May            The WI has been asked to man the raffle stall, a cake stall and help with the teas for the opening of the Community Centre.

                   It was agreed at this meeting that ALL record books will be kept by the Secretary.

                   Also at this meeting stewards were provided for the Newark Show.

                   £25 was sent to Mrs. Mary Bullimore for the Bernardo’s Children sent to Australia.

July            It was agreed that free copies of the Hornblower and members who really wanted the would pay for them.

                   Mrs. Chipperfield suggested we save our coppers for charity and this was agreed.

Oct             A Harvest Supper followed by an Auction raised £86 for the Air Ambulance.

 

2001                                                                                                                        

Apl             Cancellation of Newark Show due to foot and mouth disease. The WI transferred to Newark Town Hall for these dates.

 

2002                                                                                                                                 

Feb             Mrs. Page and Hopewell to resume the WI walks.

Apl             Theatre visit to see Half a Sixpence.

June           Members helped at the Jubilee Party held at The Grove.

July            WI catered for 50 suppers for the Executive Road Show.

Dec             Trip to Chatsworth organised by Mrs. Barbara Finn.

 

2003                                                                                                                           

Apl             Theatre visit to see My Fair Lady.

                   A coffee morning in aid of the Church Bell Fund. £ 200 was raised.

June           Sylvia Lloyd proposed we buy a piano together with the Choir to replace the old one.

July            It was agreed that the WI pay Mr. Brumpton £30 towards the purchase of a piano.

Sept            The old piano is to reside in the Lord Nelson for sing-a-longs.

                    Past members will be invited to the 50th birthday party to be held in the Community Centre.

Oct              There were two letters of resignation, one from Mrs. Jo Crutchley who still wished to help in any way she could and then Mrs. Marvin read her own letter of resignation from the Presidency.

                   Mrs. Sylvia Lloyd is willing to act as President until the elections in March.

Nov             Visit to Calendar Girls greatly enjoyed by everyone.

Dec             Christmas Party – Entertainment was by Sylvia Lloyd and friends. Christmas music and readings were from members.

                   Mr. Peter Milroy is to be asked to take a professional photograph of the WI for the 50th party in April.

  

2004                                                                                                                                  

Jan             Mrs. Jo Crutchley has offered to cater for the 50th party at £3 per head. The committee will provide the puddings.

                   Mr. Milroy has agreed to take photographs and will invite the Newark Advertiser to visit. Also the speaker will be Mrs. Jennie Storr.

May            The party was judged to have been a happy and enjoyable occasion.

                   Mrs. Margaret Wiseman invited members to her garden for the July meeting.

June           A very enjoyable and interesting visit was made to the museum of Mr. Steve Jackson. Mrs. Nan Jackson kindly provided refreshments.

Sept            Mrs. Barbara Finn to organise a trip to Chatsworth in November.

Nov             Bell Ringers Convention tea organised by WI members.

 

2005                                                                                                                                      

Feb             A Songs of Praise is to complete our 50th year with favourite hymns chosen by members. The service will be taken by the Reverend Sylvia Stevens, a Coddington WI member.

                    The WI will hold a coffee morning to help with the renovation of the piano given to the Church by Mr. David Lloyd.

 

    PRESIDENTS

 1954 - 1960          Mrs. Sheldon

1960 - 1961          Mrs. Croskell

1961 - 1964          Mrs. Newton         May

1964 - 1966          Mrs. Bennett

1966 - 1969          Mrs. Pulfrey

1969 - 1973          Mrs. Morgan        Cynthia

1973 - 1976          Mrs. Wetherill

1976 - 1979          Mrs. Hambling      Peggy

1979 - 1982          Mrs. Gold              Dys

1982 - 1984          Mrs. Clarke           Joyce

1984 - 1986          Mrs. Longmate      Lily

1986 - 1988          Mrs. Kelly             Francis

1988 - 1991          Mrs. Chipperfield  Isobel

1991 - 1992          Mrs. Shackleton    Mary

1992 - 1997          Mrs.Marshall        Daphne      

1997 - 2000          Mrs. Chipperfield  Isobel

2000 - 2001          Mrs. Crutchley      Jo

2001 - 2003          Mrs. Marvin          Sue

2003 - 2009          Mrs. Lloyd             Sylvia

2009 - 2013          Mrs. Nelson           Pat

2013 -                   Mrs. Seagar           Virginia   

 

Pat Finn. May 2013.

Footnote.

My thanks to Mrs. Sylvia Lloyd and Mrs. Sharon Spencer who supplied me with copies from the original WI minutes;

The hymn Jerusalem is sung at the opening of all The National Federation of the Women’s Institute Annual General Meetings and also at many local meetings, including Winthorpe. Although it has never been adopted as the WI’s official anthem, in practice it holds that position.

The hymn was originally written as a poem by William Blake in 1804, the lyrics were added to music written by Sir Hubert Parry, the well known composer of church music, in 1916.

Sir Hubert Parry is the half brother of Sidney Gambier-Parry, architect of All Saints’ Church, Winthorpe.

 

Jerusalem

And did those feet in ancient time
Walk upon England’s mountain green?
And was the holy Lamb of God
On England’s pleasant pastures seen?
And did the countenance divine
Shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here
Among those dark satanic mills?

Bring me my bow of burning gold!
Bring me my arrows of desire!
Bring me my spear! O clouds, unfold!
Bring me my chariot of fire!
I will not cease from mental fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand,
Till we have built Jerusalem
In Englands green and pleasant land.

 

Winthorpe WI's Nursery Rhyme Pantomime - Christmas 1982. 

The cast of Winthorpe WI's Christmas Nursery Pantomime held in the Village Hall - December 1982.

Back - Mrs. Peggy Hambling (Pianist)  Mrs. Jan Newton (Revue Writer & Producer)  Mrs. Joyce Clarke (Ugly Sister)  Mrs. June Taylor (Policeman)  Mrs. Jenny Lindley (Dick Wittington)  Mr. Dennis Bowler (Father Christmas) Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield (Ugly Sister)  Mrs. Vera Trafford (Mother Goose)  Mrs. Lily Longmate (Weary Fairy)

Front - Mrs. Eve Murray  Mrs. Jean Smith (Owl)  Mrs. Tina Bryan (Pussy Cat)  Mrs. Carol Mabbott (Goose)  Mrs. Lynne Shapley (Cinderella) 

 

Winthorpe WI's Old Time Music Hall Pantomime - Christmas 1983.

 The cast of Winthorpe WI's Christmas Old Time Music Hall Concert held in the Village Hall - December 1983.

Back - Mrs. Tina Bryan.  Mrs. Eve Murray.  Mis Nancy Harley.  Mr. Dennis Bowler.  Mrs. Lily Longmate.  Mrs. June Taylor.  Mrs. Joyce Clarke.

Front - Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield.  Mrs. Carol Mabbott.

 

Winthorpe WI's Roaring Twenties - December 1984. 

 The cast of Winthorpe WI's Roaring Twenties Concert held in the Village Hall - December 1984.

Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield.  Mr. Harold Mabbott.  Mrs. Joyce Clarke.  Mrs. Lily Longmate.  Mr. Dennis Bowler.  Mrs. Carol Mabbott.  Mrs. June Taylor.

The revue was written and produced by Mrs. Dys Gold.

The pianist was Mrs. Peggy Hambling.

 

 Winthorpe WI's Cinderella Pantomime - Christmas 1987.

The cast of Winthorpe WI's Christmas Cinderella Pantomime held in the Village Hall - December 1987. 

Back - Mrs. Joyce Clarke.  Mrs. Betty Smith.  Mrs. Glenys Breedon.  Mrs. Jean Everson.  Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield. 

Centre - Mrs. Daphne Marshall.  Mrs. Barbara Finn.

Front - Mrs. Carol Mabbott.  Mrs. June Taylor.

 

Winthorpe WI's Christmas Cinderella Pantomime - December 1987.

The cast of Winthorpe WI's Christmas Cinderella Pantomime held in the Village Hall - December 1987. 

L to R - Mrs. Joyce Clarke. Mrs. Carol Mabbott. Mrs. Daphne Marshall. Mrs. Betty Smith. Mrs. June Taylor. Mrs. Glenys Breedon. Mrs. Barbara Finn. Mrs. Jean Everson. Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield.  

 

 The planting of Peggy Hambling Copper Bech Tree at the entrance to the village on Gainsborough Road, Winthorpe - July 1989.

The planting of a Copper Beech Tree (Facus sylvatica atropunicea) in memory of Mrs. Peggy Hambling. This is at the entrance to the village on Gainsborough Road, Winthorpe - July 1989.

 

 Back - Mrs. Doreen Halam.  Mrs. Judith Halam.  Mrs. Cynthia Morgan.  Mrs. Carol Mabbott.  Mrs. June Taylor. Mrs. Margaret Bark.  Mrs. Barbara Finn.  Mrs. Joyce Clarke.  Mrs. Ann Page.  Mrs. Rose Dickinson.  Mrs. Jean Everson.

Planting - Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield.  Mrs. Mary Shackelton.

 

WI Fleet Group Banner - 15th April 2000. 

WI Fleet Group Banner

The WI Fleet Group consists of:

Besthorpe. Coddington. Collingham. North & South Clifton and Winthorpe.

The Winthorpe selection on the Banner was worked by:

Mrs. Glenys Breedon.  Mrs. Isobel Chipperfield.  Mrs. Rose Dickinson.  Mrs. Sylvia Lloyd.

 

 Winthorpe WI Birhday in the Community Centre - 15th April 2000.

                        Winthorpe WI 50th Birthday - 15th April 2000.

 Winthorpe WI President Mrs. Sylvia Lloyd at the Community Centre with the WI Fleet Group Banner.