History

Oakmere W. I. was formed fifty-five years ago, although the Hertfordshire Federation of Women’s Institutes was formed 92 years ago in 1919.

Our institute is lively and outward looking and the

members enjoy meeting new visitors and having new interests.

 

 

 

 

What did we do in 2011?

 

There have been several outings.  In June we visited the Middle Temple and afterwards had a riverboat trip on the Thames.  In July there was another visit to the Hitchin Lavender Farm, and August saw some members visit Butterfly World.

We were privileged to have a guided tour of Wrotham Park House in October - it is not normally open to the public.

 

Several members have been in groups to Wyllyotts to see shows and films, sometimes enjoying a pre-show meal.

 

In May The Hertfordshire Federation of Women’s Institutes held it’s first Literary Lunch at the All Saints Pastoral Centre in London Colney.  Some of our Reading Group attended and enjoyed a superb lunch in beautiful surroundings.  After lunch a well known local Author, Kate McMahon, gave a very entertaining talk on her life and work as an author.

 

We have had two very pleasant and enjoyable member’s walks, and on both occasions were blessed with lovely weather.

 

In March our 55th birthday Meeting commenced with entertainment by a local Irish dance school, and the young members performed a selection of Irish dances.  As usual we welcomed our guests from neighbouring WIs, and enjoyed another excellent meal catered for by the Committee.

 

We have had a varied and interesting selection of speakers throughout the year, including a paper making demonstration, wool spinning, talks on Royal Parks, and a very entertaining Pearly Queen.

 

Our various fundraising events during the year have raised over £500.00 for our funds, and given us all a lot of pleasure.  Some members have opened their homes for lunches, coffee mornings and coffee evenings.  In June we had another very successful Quiz Night.

 

Apart from raising funds for our WI, during the year we raised £284.00 for our charity, the Hertfordshire Air Ambulance, and one of our members opened her home for a coffee morning in aid of the Macmillan Cancer Nurses and raised £211.00.

 

Our monthly lunch club continues to be well supported, as is our reading group.  Several members have been knitting blanket squares and baby clothes for charity.

 

We are happy to report that our WI is still thriving and attracting very welcome new members.

 

If you are interested please call our President Ro Barry on 01707 645482 or our Secretary, Pam Bond on 01707 645366 or you can e-mail

Ro Barry at roandjohn@byngbarry.fsnet.co.uk or

Pam Bond at pam_bond@yahoo.com

 

………We will be very happy to hear from you.

 

ABOUT US

Oakmere WI