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Local WI celebrates tenth anniversary with huge party

By Pam Marsden

STOKES BAY WOMEN’S INSTITUTE (WI) marked an amazing milestone in their history recently as they celebrated exactly ten years since being founded back in 2014; the group choosing to enjoy this special occasion in the form of a “party to end all parties” on October 7 (Monday).

Their motto of “Inspiring Friendship & Fun” was certainly on full show throughout the party, which was attended by members aged from twenty-four to ninety five years old. Community spirit was further evident as each attendee brought something tasty to support the Basic Foodbank in Gosport; which acted as their “cost” for coming along.

Founder members count for a third of the group’s 100-strong membership and many continue to attend every meeting or event held by the group. They were all celebrated with a gift and certificate to acknowledge their ongoing commitment to the WI over the last decade; which includes key tasks that combine to create a well-organised community group.

Members were then able to enjoy a scrummy afternoon tea of sandwiches alongside delicious homemade scones and cakes from members; whilst a few bottles of bubbly were also sampled to toast ten happy years. Photographs were then taken of the impressive membership line-up, which included oldest member Pamela Hall (95) having fun with youngest member Freyja Press (24).

Angela MacCallum, President of Stokes Bay WI, said after the event: “What a party! We celebrated along with our founder members and thoroughly enjoyed recognising that our WI is flourishing thanks to the teamwork of so many.”

The group hosts multiple clubs and activities for its members; such as knitting, sewing and monthly trips to local garden centres. They meet on the third Tuesday of each month at St Mary’s Parish Centre from 10am to 12pm and are always looking to welcome new members. Full details can be explored by readers via their website (www.stokesbaywi.co.uk), or finding them on Facebook.

PICTURED BY PAM MARSDEN: A selection of scones and food on offer for members as they marked ten years since founding in 2014.