LATEST NEWS
HAPPY NEW YEAR - WE HOPE!Yes, 2020 was a tough one, and like all WI groups up and down the country, East Stoke WI members have very much missed our monthly meetings. We welcome the news that a vaccine is on the way and, thankfully, we have all managed to keep safe. It comes as no surprise that our ladies have kept up their spirits and pursued various activities, pastimes and charitable works.
Vivienne says she has finished a cross stitch project started 3 years ago, along with patchwork cushions, and endless cakes! I guess we have all been cooking more than ever. I began making tote bags and have even completed 4 Lunar Lapins (heritage toy rabbits). Meanwhile, Denman College have put together FREE ZOOM courses, details of which can be found on the Nottinghamshire Federation website. Lesley, has already partaken of a felting course and made some impressive looking gloves, see above, and she has reported on her impressions of the course, below. Well worth having a go ladies! Let us pray that 2021 will be a much healthier and happier New Year, and that we can meet up with our friends and fellow members again soon. Best wishes. Jan Mount, President. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ I had some money for Christmas which I thought would be good to spend on a WI online course having been tempted by regular emails from Denman College. Fiona and I had enjoyed a residential course a few years ago so decided to give it a go. I easily registered online for a 'fingerless felted glove course', lasting 2 hours. I received a list of requirements and guidance to access the Zoom meeting which were all very clear. The tutor was a very experienced felter and well practiced in training. She was supported by a facilitator from Denman College who immediately created a friendly WI atmosphere. Of the 60 participants some choose to actually do the felting along with the tutor. I decided that I would watch and take additional notes. The tutor gave clear instructions and answered our questions whilst inspiring us with ideas on how to differentiate styles, upcycle tools and consider different colourways etc. The two hours sped by and as I was using my laptop I could take it into the kitchen for coffee top-ups. There was a temporary IT glitch towards the end when we lost contact with the tutor. However, in true WI style we filled the time with our own show and tell admiring the work of those who had diligently followed the guidance and completed a pair of stunning gloves. I consider this was excellent value at £5. If you haven't checked the Denman at Home website there is a good selection of courses - not just the crafty sort so why not give it a go. The more of us that use it the more variety we will have to choose from! Lesley Bensley THANKS TO OUR LONG SERVING SECRETARYAt a committee meeting held on Thursday 17th September, Janice Mount, President, presented Christine Lee with a WI silver badge, to commemorate over 40 years' service as secretary to East Stoke WI. Christine stepped down earlier in the year, but agreed to stay on as a valued committee member. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Covid problems, we were unable to present the gift at a normal members' meeting, which have been postponed until further notice. .
ANNUAL WALK ON EAST STOKE BATTLE TRAILAfter months of lockdown, it was agreed that our annual walk in August should take place. As always, Sally came up with a great idea for our trek, which was the Battlefield Trail in East Stoke. On Thursday 20th, nine members (and Hector, Karen's dog), each took a picnic, parked our cars in Hazel's driveway, then set off up the hill and across the fields, heading towards the river. It was a beautiful, sunny day and we enjoyed two hours of walking, wonderful views, and the pleasure of seeing each other again, albeit at a safe distance. Back at Hazel's, slightly footweary and hungry, we enjoyed our picnics, subsidised with lovely cakes provided by Hazel and Sally. What a lovely day! We now are looking to the possibility of reconvening our monthly meetings in our hall.
CORONA VIRUS UPDATESadly, as a result of the present crisis and the Government's directive, we are forced to cancel our monthly meetings until further notice. This is very disappointing for our members, naturally, but we are mindful of the dangers of ignoring medical advice and our main concern is the safety and well being of our members.
We hope normal service will be resumed as soon as possible! Eyes down and look in!
Bingo Evening Saturday 19 October 2019 East Stoke WI Hall, School Lane, NG23QL 7 pm for 7.30 pm £5 inc soup supper, bingo tickets and prizes!! Bring your own drink and glass Everyone Welcome - Proceeds to East Stoke WI Further details contact 07502 589 626 ETON AVENUE GROWERS ASSOCIATIONOur September meeting saw us meeting up at a little known allotment in Hawtonville, Newark. A group of multi-award winning volunteers run a 2.5 acre plot of land for people with special needs, mental health issues and the long term unemployed. We were met by Gillie, who has been involved for over 10 years, who gave us a guided walk, followed by tea and cakes in a poly-tunnel. Different! An enjoyable and interesting evening. Details can be obtained from [email protected].
The plot includes an orchard, fruit, veg and flower gardens, wild life area with pond, poly-tunnels, etc. even chickens.
|
TEDDY BEARS PICNIC AT ELSTON WI
|
On Saturday, 20th August, four of our members enjoyed an afternoon with a sumptuous tea, as guests of Elston WI's Teddy Bears Picnic. Lots of bears were also in attendance, some dressed for the occasion! The food and company were up to Elston ladies' usual high standard. All in all, a most enjoyable event.
To cap it all, Jan won the raffle - another bear, called Vincent. |
OVERALL WINNER OF WI SHOW 2016
|
At the Federation's Annual Meeting, held on 7th April 2016 in The Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham, East Stoke member, Lesley Bentley, was presented with with a cup and certificates by celebrity guest Paul Hayes.
Lesley had most points in the Craft Section and was also Overall Winner of the WI Show 2016. We are all very proud of Lesley. Well done! Here she is shown displaying the cup and certificates. |
EAST STOKE BAG LADIES
WE HAVE AN AUTHOR IN OUR MIDST
Our 'calendar girl' Jan (no she doesn't pose in the nude, she takes the photos for our Calendar Competition each year) has written her first novel, to be released on 27th October.
Details of 'FAME AND MISFORTUNE ' a romantic thriller can be found on www.penskillspublishing.co.uk. It will be on sale at WH Smith and other bookshops as well as on-line. It is also available on KINDLE for just £2.80.
We wish Jan good luck with her book.
FOSSE GROUP CENTENARY CELEBRATION
EAST STOKE WI hosted the above meeting on 13th October in some style! After being entertained by World of Colour representative, Susanne Suthers, over 40 members of the Fosse Group WI's enjoyed a supper of jacket potatoes and a choice of hot and cold fillings, followed by a selection of delicious desserts.
The bunting was made under the direction of our supersonic needlewoman, Lesley. It took us two evenings, working flat out, but it was well worth the effort.
The bunting was made under the direction of our supersonic needlewoman, Lesley. It took us two evenings, working flat out, but it was well worth the effort.
VISIT TO DODDINGTON HALL
Our policy at East Stoke is not to have an August meeting, due to holidays. Instead,some members have a walk and luncheon at a different venue each year. This year we visited Doddington Hall and had a really enjoyable day. The Hall's new facilities, including an excellent restaurant and café, are to be recommended. We took one of the suggested routes, circling the hall, gardens and some of the woodlands, which gave us a perfect appetite for our lunch. Thanks to Sally for organising the walk, as usual, and to Nikki for the lovely photos.
NEWSTEAD ABBEY FLOWER AND CRAFT FESTIVAL, 26, 27 & 28 JUNE
WI'S "INSPIRING WOMEN"
We chose COCO CHANEL as the subject of our stand. We think Coco was an exceptional & inspiring woman. She was raised as an orphan, but became a world renowned fashion icon. We are still wearing her designs & perfume over a hundred years later.
Our floral wizard is Jeanette - even the handbag is made from flowers and leaves!
Take a look at the photos of our stand in the gallery.
Our floral wizard is Jeanette - even the handbag is made from flowers and leaves!
Take a look at the photos of our stand in the gallery.
NFWI 2015 CENTENARY ANNUAL MEETING
4TH JUNE 2015
As a delegate, I represented East Stoke, Elston and Hoverinham WIs, at the Centenary AGM, held in the Royal Albert Hall. Details of the event can be found of the NFWI web site.
This very special AGM was graced by the presence of H M The Queen, The Princess Royal and The Countess of Wessex. The Queen was presented with the Centenary Baton, which was on a velvet cushion, decorated with the badge of every WI Federation. Her Majesty graciously gave it back for our safe keeping! She gave a short speech and presented prizes before leaving us.
It was a truly memorable day, laced with guest speakers, the Singing for Joy choir, and of course her Royal presence. In the 6th row from the front, I had a good view of all three royal guests! To be part of the Albert Hall, filled with thousands of women, singing 'Jerusalem' is quite emotional. Janice Mount.
This very special AGM was graced by the presence of H M The Queen, The Princess Royal and The Countess of Wessex. The Queen was presented with the Centenary Baton, which was on a velvet cushion, decorated with the badge of every WI Federation. Her Majesty graciously gave it back for our safe keeping! She gave a short speech and presented prizes before leaving us.
It was a truly memorable day, laced with guest speakers, the Singing for Joy choir, and of course her Royal presence. In the 6th row from the front, I had a good view of all three royal guests! To be part of the Albert Hall, filled with thousands of women, singing 'Jerusalem' is quite emotional. Janice Mount.
OUR MEMBERS AT THE WI PALACE GARDEN PARTY ON 2ND JUNE 2015
Val's Day at the Palace
I could not believe my name came our of the hat. What a surprise! Thankfully, all the other ladies were very pleased for me. Next question, 'What to wear?' After careful thought, and knowing it would be grass underfoot, I decided not to opt for the gorgeous outfit I wore for my Grandson's wedding, as it included high heels. Instead I chose an outfit I wore for my 70th birthday and bought some new low, thick heeled shoes and borrowed a fascinator - which was brand new, bought in America - from my dear friend and fellow WI member, Sylvia. Everyone loved it.
It was a miserable start to the day. Rain! We had an excellent driver and made good time to be dropped on the perimeter of the Palace. Time for a quick coffee then into the queue. A long but interesting experience watching all the wonderful outfits.Into the Palace grounds and onto the lawn. Two bandstands with military bands at either end of the gardens played almost continually during the afternoon.
I was lucky enough to have Helen, a dual member of our WI, who was representing Bottesford WI, to share the day with. We managed to get seats and spent a very enjoyable time taking in the amazing variety of fashions. Some raised eyebrows! We were next to the catering marquee, so getting the wonderful food was not a problem.
We saw the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Wessex from a distance. The lines were so long and getting up close up was impossible. Luckily, the weather stayed dry and we didn't need our umbrellas.
5 o'clock soon came round and we exited the Palace remarkably swiftly to walk down The Mall for our coach. It was great seeing the faces of the tourists wondering what we were all about.
Our driver, Glyn, was excellent and took us on the back roads to avoid the traffic and we were back in Newark by 9.30pm and home before 10pm. Tired but very happy after such a memorable day. Thank you WI. Val Pope, President, East Stoke WI.
I could not believe my name came our of the hat. What a surprise! Thankfully, all the other ladies were very pleased for me. Next question, 'What to wear?' After careful thought, and knowing it would be grass underfoot, I decided not to opt for the gorgeous outfit I wore for my Grandson's wedding, as it included high heels. Instead I chose an outfit I wore for my 70th birthday and bought some new low, thick heeled shoes and borrowed a fascinator - which was brand new, bought in America - from my dear friend and fellow WI member, Sylvia. Everyone loved it.
It was a miserable start to the day. Rain! We had an excellent driver and made good time to be dropped on the perimeter of the Palace. Time for a quick coffee then into the queue. A long but interesting experience watching all the wonderful outfits.Into the Palace grounds and onto the lawn. Two bandstands with military bands at either end of the gardens played almost continually during the afternoon.
I was lucky enough to have Helen, a dual member of our WI, who was representing Bottesford WI, to share the day with. We managed to get seats and spent a very enjoyable time taking in the amazing variety of fashions. Some raised eyebrows! We were next to the catering marquee, so getting the wonderful food was not a problem.
We saw the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Wessex from a distance. The lines were so long and getting up close up was impossible. Luckily, the weather stayed dry and we didn't need our umbrellas.
5 o'clock soon came round and we exited the Palace remarkably swiftly to walk down The Mall for our coach. It was great seeing the faces of the tourists wondering what we were all about.
Our driver, Glyn, was excellent and took us on the back roads to avoid the traffic and we were back in Newark by 9.30pm and home before 10pm. Tired but very happy after such a memorable day. Thank you WI. Val Pope, President, East Stoke WI.
EAST STOKE ENTRY IN THE WI COMPETITION AT NEWARK COUNTY SHOW IN MAY
Nottingham Federation WI's were invited to create a small table top presentation, depicting the activities of our own WI over the years.
Ours shows various crafts and a selection of photographs from our winning calendars. We were very proud to display it.
There was no formal judging but the winner was chosen by a public vote over the 2 days of the show. Congratulations to Newark Palace who took first prize.
For photos of all the entries click here.
WI CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE
One of the year's most memorable events will surely be marked by a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on 2nd June 2015. One member from every WI in the country has been invited to attend this wonderful occasion. East Stoke members held a ballot and the winner was ........... (pause for effect) VALERIE POPE, our President. Wow! It couldn't have gone to a more deserving person. Valerie works so hard for our group and it is fitting that she represents us - even without the ballot!
We hope she has a fabulous day and look forward to some photos.
We hope she has a fabulous day and look forward to some photos.
MEMBERS ENJOY AN EVENING AT NEWARK INDOOR BOWLING CENTRE
The monthly meeting on 19th March took the shape of some fun packed instruction in indoor bowls. Two of our members, Mary and Isabel have been members of Farndon Bowls Club for many years, and gave us the benefit of their expertise. It has to be said they were very patient, as most of us had never held a 'wood' before and there were a few cases of our members' woods going in weird directions! But it was great fun and enjoyed by all.
EAST STOKE WIN FOSSE GROUP COMPETITION
CarColston & Scriveton's WI held a Social Evening on 18th March, as part of the WI's 2015 Centenary celebrations.
Our President, Valerie, & committee member, Nikki, attended. Each of the Fosse Group's five WIs (East Stoke, Elston, CarColston, Scarrington, Bingham and Bingham Belles) entered the 'Archives Competition' illustrating their own WI's activities over the many years.
We're pleased to say that EAST STOKE won the cup with its entry, shown here. There was a combination of photos, events, numerous crafts etc etc that our members have been involved in.
Well done everyone! (Especially Nikki, who put it all together.)
Our President, Valerie, & committee member, Nikki, attended. Each of the Fosse Group's five WIs (East Stoke, Elston, CarColston, Scarrington, Bingham and Bingham Belles) entered the 'Archives Competition' illustrating their own WI's activities over the many years.
We're pleased to say that EAST STOKE won the cup with its entry, shown here. There was a combination of photos, events, numerous crafts etc etc that our members have been involved in.
Well done everyone! (Especially Nikki, who put it all together.)
THREE MEMBERS MEET NEWARK MP AT HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT
On Friday 27th February, Val, Jan and Helen joined a coach party from Newark to Westminster, to visit the Houses of Parliament. Robert Jenrick, MP for Newark, entertained our group of some 50 people with an interesting and informative Q & A session, then gave us a personally conducted tour. Robert, who lives in Southwell, helped to make our trip really enjoyable and entertaining. And the sun shone all day!
Not a bad pic taken by another member of the group using Val's phone, considering it was 6.20 pm and dark! L-R Jan, Robert,Val.
Below: Pics of Statue of Oliver Cromwell, just before entrance, where we were subjected to rigorous security checks. Next pic shows London Eye at night.
2016 CALENDAR COMPETITION
Once again, East Stoke WI has been successful in entering the Notts Fed WI annual calendar competition. The theme for 2016 was Nottingham in Bloom, and our keen photographer member, Jan Mount, has had two images accepted, one of which will grace the front cover.
Calendars are on sale, priced £3, in the autumn each year, available from your WI secretary. If you would like to purchase a calendar and are not a WI member, ask someone who is. Better still, join the WI yourself!
Calendars are on sale, priced £3, in the autumn each year, available from your WI secretary. If you would like to purchase a calendar and are not a WI member, ask someone who is. Better still, join the WI yourself!
ANNUAL BIRTHDAY DINNER
We celebrate the inauguration of East Stoke WI every year by having dinner at a local hostelry. This year we were welcomed to The Bromley at Fiskerton on 20 November. The Bromley is a traditional country pub, located next to the River Trent and was beautifully decorated for Christmas. After drinks sitting by a fabulous double sided log fire, we all enjoyed a lovely meal and friendly atmosphere.
SECRET GARDENS OF LONDON TOUR
Three members of our WI joined the above tour from 1st to 3rd September 2014.
Staying at the fabulous Millenium Gloucester Hotel, they enjoyed 3 action packed days in London. The Secret Gardens of London Tour included Covent Garden, Lincolns Inn Fields, a 17th century knot garden near Lambeth Palace, and Chelsea Physic Garden. Finally, mid afternoon tea was followed by the final tour - the sunken garden at Kensington Palace. Our tour guide, Graham, of "Greenwich Tours", was excellent. Very knowledgeable and entertaining!
Our 3 ladies took the opportunity to take in the V&A Museum, the theatre production of "Mamma Mia" and the wonderful poppies at The Tower of London.
Many thanks to the Notts Federation ladies for organising a most enjoyable event.
Below: The sunken garden at Kensington Palace
Staying at the fabulous Millenium Gloucester Hotel, they enjoyed 3 action packed days in London. The Secret Gardens of London Tour included Covent Garden, Lincolns Inn Fields, a 17th century knot garden near Lambeth Palace, and Chelsea Physic Garden. Finally, mid afternoon tea was followed by the final tour - the sunken garden at Kensington Palace. Our tour guide, Graham, of "Greenwich Tours", was excellent. Very knowledgeable and entertaining!
Our 3 ladies took the opportunity to take in the V&A Museum, the theatre production of "Mamma Mia" and the wonderful poppies at The Tower of London.
Many thanks to the Notts Federation ladies for organising a most enjoyable event.
Below: The sunken garden at Kensington Palace
WI CENTENARY BATON
Posted on 13 June 2014
On 12 June 2014 the WI Centenary baton was passed by the President of Farnham WI, who arrived in some style, by pony and cart, to East Stoke WI's President, Valerie Pope.
Several East Stoke WI members, dressed in red and white, to commemorate East Stoke's part in the Civil War, walked to Elston WI to pass on the baton.
Members of both WI's then enjoyed an evening of delicious refreshments provided by the Elston ladies.
Full information on the Centenary Banner can be found on the Nottinghamshire Federation of WI's website.
Several East Stoke WI members, dressed in red and white, to commemorate East Stoke's part in the Civil War, walked to Elston WI to pass on the baton.
Members of both WI's then enjoyed an evening of delicious refreshments provided by the Elston ladies.
Full information on the Centenary Banner can be found on the Nottinghamshire Federation of WI's website.
Valerie, receiving the banner from Sue Lowe, with (L to R) Helen, Vivian, Janice and Pam.
Novice Prize-winners!
Posted 12 May 2014
Take a look at our entry for the "Music that Inspires" craft competition at the Notts County Show in early May. Four members of our WI got together to produce our entry. We chose to depict "There'll Always Be An England" with a photographic CD cover and interior, and two craft items - the cottage was needlework and embroidery, and the pond modelling clay. The base was achieved with a felting process. Our hours of work paid off and we thought it was great for our first effort! The judges thought so too, as we won the novice prize for the best entry by a WI who hadn't entered a competition for more than 5 years. We look forward to doing even better next year!!
Below is the County Craft Cup we won.
Below is the County Craft Cup we won.
New Website Launched
Posted 17 March 2014
Welcome to the brand new website of East Stoke WI.
On Monday, 17th March 2014, Janice, one of our members, attended a 'Build a Website' course at The Nottingham Federation of Women's Institutes Head Office,Trent Bridge House, in Newark.
Kay Brown - the new Group's Coordinator - impressed eight ladies on the one day course with her great expertise and patience in instructing us on the wonders of building a website.
To most of us, IT is not a strong subject, but Kay had done all the hard work and guided us through the process. True to form, the WI had shown great resourcefulness in sourcing Weebly as the web builder, which is free!
We are now equipped to bring you all the latest news about East Stoke WI, as well as what's going on nationally.
On Monday, 17th March 2014, Janice, one of our members, attended a 'Build a Website' course at The Nottingham Federation of Women's Institutes Head Office,Trent Bridge House, in Newark.
Kay Brown - the new Group's Coordinator - impressed eight ladies on the one day course with her great expertise and patience in instructing us on the wonders of building a website.
To most of us, IT is not a strong subject, but Kay had done all the hard work and guided us through the process. True to form, the WI had shown great resourcefulness in sourcing Weebly as the web builder, which is free!
We are now equipped to bring you all the latest news about East Stoke WI, as well as what's going on nationally.
USEFUL INFORMATION
OUR MEETING VENUE
WI Hall, School Lane,
East Stoke, Nottinghamshire - map
MEETING TIME
Third Thursday each month starting at 7.30pm
COUNTY HOUSE
The opening times of the federation office at Trent Bridge House, Beastmarket Hill, Newark, Nottinghamshire. NG24 1BN
are as follows:
Mon–Wed only 9am – 3pm
Closed for painting & cleaning in August
Contact Rosemary, Heather & Fiona by
Email : [email protected]
Tel: 01636 67 3550
The Nottinghamshire Federation web pages are here:-
Nottinghamshire Federation
You can download documents & booking forms.
WI ADVISERS
These ladies are on hand to give help and advise to you about all aspects of the WI.
They can attend your annual meeting or your committee meetings or just offer help on the end of a phone or email.
To get in touch on any WI matters :-
[email protected]
or check out their phone numbers in the Year Book.
GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR
Michelle Jafaar is the new Groups co-ordinator. If you have any questions about any matters concerning your WI group you should direct them to Michelle using the [email protected]
email address.
WI Hall, School Lane,
East Stoke, Nottinghamshire - map
MEETING TIME
Third Thursday each month starting at 7.30pm
COUNTY HOUSE
The opening times of the federation office at Trent Bridge House, Beastmarket Hill, Newark, Nottinghamshire. NG24 1BN
are as follows:
Mon–Wed only 9am – 3pm
Closed for painting & cleaning in August
Contact Rosemary, Heather & Fiona by
Email : [email protected]
Tel: 01636 67 3550
The Nottinghamshire Federation web pages are here:-
Nottinghamshire Federation
You can download documents & booking forms.
WI ADVISERS
These ladies are on hand to give help and advise to you about all aspects of the WI.
They can attend your annual meeting or your committee meetings or just offer help on the end of a phone or email.
To get in touch on any WI matters :-
[email protected]
or check out their phone numbers in the Year Book.
GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR
Michelle Jafaar is the new Groups co-ordinator. If you have any questions about any matters concerning your WI group you should direct them to Michelle using the [email protected]
email address.
OTHER NOTTS FED WI WEBSITES
Abbey Gates WI
Arnold WI
Averham Kelham & Staythorpe WI
Bestwood Village WI
Bleasby WI
Brookside (Mansfield) WI
Burton Joyce & Bulcote WI
(Nottingham) City WI
Clarborough WI
Coddington WI
Dorewood WI (Balderton)
East Bridgford WI
Gedling WI
Granby & Sutton WI
Gringley on the Hill WI
Lapwings WI (Linby & Papplewick)
Lindhurst WI
Newstead WI
Newark Palace WI
Ollerton WI
Plumtree WI
Radcliffe on Trent WI
Ravenshead WI
Ruddington WI
Scarrington WI
Southwell WI
Shelford WI
Watnall WI
West Bridgford WI
Woodborough WI
Arnold WI
Averham Kelham & Staythorpe WI
Bestwood Village WI
Bleasby WI
Brookside (Mansfield) WI
Burton Joyce & Bulcote WI
(Nottingham) City WI
Clarborough WI
Coddington WI
Dorewood WI (Balderton)
East Bridgford WI
Gedling WI
Granby & Sutton WI
Gringley on the Hill WI
Lapwings WI (Linby & Papplewick)
Lindhurst WI
Newstead WI
Newark Palace WI
Ollerton WI
Plumtree WI
Radcliffe on Trent WI
Ravenshead WI
Ruddington WI
Scarrington WI
Southwell WI
Shelford WI
Watnall WI
West Bridgford WI
Woodborough WI