Earlier start for WI (From Dorset Echo)

Earlier start for WI

11:49am Wednesday 19th January 2011 in Community

• THE earlier start to the Martinstown WI monthly meetings has been greatly appreciated by members and speakers alike. No one really enjoys a homeward journey too late on a dark, wet, winter evening.

However, even this would have been preferable to being confined to a hospital bed. “Get well soon,” were the good wishes sent to Sheila and Joan, who hopefully will be at the next meeting.

Members will have to wait for another time before they can enjoy the delights of the costumes from “Victoria’s Closet” as it was cancelled due to ill health.

Thankfully the DFWI county offices has a list of speakers available for just such an emergency.

Many thanks to Abigail Langstone-Wring BSc who stepped in to an inspiring talk entitled “Eat Yourself Well”, which had members determined to build up their own ”Pyramid of Diet”. Foods that had an effect on the immune system, arthritis and the quality of sleep rang many bells amongst their audience.

Congratulations to Margaret H who seemed to be the only member drinking the recommended two litres of water per day. Sadly tea and coffee do not qualify. So many facts to be considered.

Why did a make a note to rub my feet with Vick every night and wear bedsocks? I musts have completely forgotten the remedy for a good memory. I am sure all will be revealed once my herb bed starts to sprout in the Spring.

The next WI meeting will be taking place on Wednesday, February 9 at 2.15pm. The speaker will tell the story of “Dads Army”. Visitors welcome.

Thanks to Eileen who already has plans afoot for the annual outing in June.

Kilver Court is the proposed destination. As usual the visit will be open to the Valley villagers and, of course, our regular supporters from elsewhere.

• THE Valley Club meet on Monday, January 17 in the village hall. James Foster-Pegg, from the Poundbury Garden Centre, will give a talk on “Gardening for Wildlife,” and most importantly on how to fit wildlife into a conventional garden.

• THE Week of Prayer for Christian Unity got off to a good start in St Martin’s Church when representatives of all faiths within the community took part in the service on the theme “All Things in Common,” so much more constructive than dwelling on the differences.

A welcome soup, roll and cheese lunch was thoughtfully provided by Vicar John Good and his wife, which brought a perfect end to a wonderful morning.

A service will also take place in St Martin’s on Sunday, January 23 at 6pm with a further Churches Together on Tuesday, January 25 at 12 noon.

• ON a final note I suggest a visit to Compton Valence around February 1 to 14 to see the display of snowdrops. A sight not to be missed!