It was a chance to greet, meet and chat over a cup of coffee this morning.  It's something new to us;  as our monthly meetings are very busy there's not much opportunity to mix or talk.  Hence, today's coffee morning.  It gave all of us time to meet with members, new and not so new!  Let us know if you think it might be worthwhile doing again.
It was also a chance to see the new rooms in the Church Hall - very smart and impressive.

Lynn Mitchell

I saw this on Thursday at the plot we planted.  Hope the butterflies and bees can read, the fence has also been erected so it will stop people and dogs walking on it.  The shrubs seem to be doing alright.

Pam Reece

We finally managed to get out for our walk yesterday.  The weather was a lot kinder to us - well, at least there was no snow or ice and it was dry!  Five ladies stepped it out along to Marske where we were met by Eileen who led us along the footpaths on the cliffs to the Coast Road.  The Stray Cafe beckoned us, as usual, and we soon made short work of the bacon buns, a panini and Ann's salad.  Although there was only three of us on the walk back the wind was behind us and we made good time. 
A nice walk to blow away the cobwebs for the first time this year.

Lynn Mitchell

With snow on the ground and a heavy frost forecast there was quite a good turnout for our Annual Meeting.  Ann thanked everyone for all their hard work over this past year and presented Cath with a Royal Doulton lady figurine as she retires from her position as Treasurer which she's held for 16 years. 

There's only one change to the committee - we welcome Nancy but say farewell and thank you to Eleanor.  We're all pleased to see that Ann was voted back into her role as President - she does it so well.

It was then time for a wonderful pooled supper ... you do yourselves proud, ladies.

Lynn Mitchell

We had lots of fun yesterday making bows - bows for floral bouquets and bows for presents or cards.  Some of us were a lot better than others, but we carried on determined to get it right.  We left laden with bows.  Must keep practising or else we'll forget how to make them.

A new class in the Craft and Produce Show for 2012 is "pincushions, bookmarks or needlecases", so next month bring something along and make a start on one for the show.

Lynn Mitchell

Our Annual group lunch was this year held at King's Grill Saltburn.  We again had an excellent meal in a very friendly atmosphere. It certainly cheered up a chilly January day.

Stella

On Sunday the 15th of January 2012 a Service of Dedication for the Emmanuel Church Hall Outreach [ECHO} Project was held. The Preacher was His Grace, Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York.  It was a lovely service which included Songs of Praise & Thanksgiving.  A collection was taken for the Archbishops special project which is to build a School for the deaf in Eygpt.  The Archbishop being a very likeable and amusing gentleman asked if it could be a {QUIET] collection.  It was, we raised £900.  After the unveiling of the dedication stone we all went into the hall for a wonderful array of appetising food which was very much enjoyed by all.

Pam Reece

Welcome to all our members and visitors at this month's meeting.  It was nearly a full house!  Following our business, we were entertained by Betty Brown - and wasn't she entertaining?  The evening was entitled "Raising a Smile" and she certainly did that.  Doesn't she do well for 39 and a bit?  Her poems and tales kept us laughing all night.  It's just a shame we can't remember everything she said!

Lynn Mitchell

It was a "bring your unfinished items" for Crafts today.  A quiet morning to chat over a cup of coffee and do your own thing.  Lunch, as ever, was very varied and extremely tasty.

Next month, we'll be making bows.  Come and make a few for yourself, everyone is very welcome.

Lynn Mitchell

We held  the first committee meeting of 2012 this morning, planning the programme for 2012.  There's some great things being organised and outings being arranged.  If you haven't had enough retail therapy come shopping  with us to Bounday Mill on 20th January.

There will be a sweet museum trip, Harrogate Flower Show, and Last Night of the Proms to look forward to early on in the year, as well as our Flower Festival.  It's also our turn to host the Group Rally.

Don't worry, our crafts, flowers, walks and supper club are still firmly part of the calendar.

You'll need to check your diaries and keep the dates free!

Lynn Mitchell

A very happy new year to all our ladies and we hope you all had a wonderful time over Christmas.

We'll soon be back into the swing of activities again, starting with our Craft Day on Monday, 9th January at the Fire Station from 11.00am.  Hope you can come along and join us; nothing has been planned so bring any unfinished crafts and enjoy a friendly chat at the same time.

If you've read your WI Life magazine, you'll have seen the Resolutions for 2012.  Don 't forget to vote for one of them before 20th January.

We will be voting for a new President and Committee at our Annual Meeting in February.  We'll be asking members if they wish to stand - think about joining, it's not all hard work!

Lynn Mitchell

It was a full coach that left Saltburn at 11.30am and headed straight to Durham for the start of our day out.   Free time to hit the shops and have lunch - so much choice so little time!  The weather was a lot kinder (no wind)   so walking round the shops was easier than it was on Thursday.  Most of us did manage to spend a little   while we were shopping before heading back to the coach for the short trip to Crook Hall.

We were met at the gate and taken into the Hall where we were served with mulled wine and mince pies by an elf. This little elf was kept busy during our visit with lots of different duties to carry out while we were there.   Maggie Bell, the owner, told us a little bit of the Hall's history and about the few ghosts that live there too.   We were invited to look around all the different rooms decorated for Christmas, which were magical, and our elf took us to visit Father Christmas - and if we'd been good we would get a present.   We sung a few carols in front of a roaring fire, (Maggie said it was a really cold place in the winter so there were a few fan heaters too) to round off our visit.

It was a lovely day, a big thank you to Pauline for all her hard work.   Christmas is well and truly on the way now!

Lynn Mitchell

Did you all enjoy our Christmas Party?     The weather was throwing everything it could at us outside but the evening was excellent inside the hall.   We welcomed the ladies from Moorsholm WI and Monday at 8 who joined us for the party and then   sat back to enjoy the evening.

The Links Chior entertained us with lots of beautiful Christmas songs and carols,   and there was a few for us to sing along with.   Father Christmas popped in too.   Otherwise known as George Robinson, he told us about his Santa's beginnings, and a few of his favourite stories meeting children.   He has met 19,000 children since he started in 1998 and any money he collects is donated to charity.

The buffet table groaned under the weight of our supper.  Thank you all for putting on a wonderful spread.

We ended the night with our vversion of   "The 12 Days of Christmas" which is fast becoming a tradition.   We'll party   again same time next year.

Lynn Mitchell

Hutton Lowcross hosted this year's Group Carol Service at St Nicholas Church in Guisborough.  Considering the cold, windy weather there was a very good turnout.  The service of six carols and six readings really gets us into the spirit of Christmas, the singing was loud and the readings were modern instead of the normal traditional.  Thanks to Eileen who was our "reader", and was first on!  Mince pies with tea or coffee and time for a quick chat rounded off the evening.

A big thank you to Hutton Lowcross for a lovely evening.

Lynn Mitchell

As Christmas is fast approaching let's make something for Christmas.  OK, we'll make a coaster.  Using some Christmas fabric we all cut out two shapes and ended up with a beautiful coaster with a star design.  From the pattern it was very difficult to work out how we could end up with the star but, magically, we all managed to produce our own masterpiece.

That's our last craft class this year.  See you all on Monday, 9th January 2012.

Lynn Mitchell

It's a very busy week for Saltburn WI, so here's a reminder of what's going on.

Monday, Crafts at 110.00am in the Fire Station.  Bring 2 pieces of fabric, 8" square to make a coaster.  You'll also need a cup and something for our pooled lunch.

Wednesday is the Group Carol Service at St Nicholas Church, Guisborough at 7.00pm, followed by mince pies.

Thursday is our Christmas Party at 7.00pm in the Emmanuel Church Hall.  Come along and join in the fun with Father Christmas and The Links Choir, and food for the pooled buffet supper please.

Friday we're off to Durham to do some shopping before our visit to Crook Hall where we'll have more carols, mince pies and mulled wine (sounds good, doesn't it?)

What a week, it's going to take some stamina to survive, but we can do it!!

Lynn Mitchell

Saltburn was switching on it's Christmas lights last Saturday.  Did anyone go along to see them and sing a few carols around the tree?  The WI tree is standing proud in the Bandstand.  Pop along and see it when you're out and about.

Thank you to all our ladies who manned the stall in a very windy station portico.  Thank you also to those who baked all the lovely cakes that filled the stall, and to Ann for all the Christmas puddings, jams and chutneys.  We were virtually sold out by lunchtime and called it a day before the weather worsened.

Lynn Mitchell

Today was a chance to buy our gifts at the Christmas Fayre at Wynyard Hall.   80 stalls were selling everything from scarves to bags, smellies to chocolates, licquers to flowers, even furniture and mirrors.   There was plenty of time to browse - and buy - and rest your weary feet with a cuppa in the Chapel.   I think most of the ladies got back on the bus with some shopping!

Then we were off to No 4 in Sedgefield for our tea.   The food was lovely, clean plates all round.   There was even time for a bit more shopping in the cafe and Ticketyboo, their gift shop along the street.

Another excellent day for the 29 Christmas shoppers.   Thanks Pauline.

Lynn Mitchell

Our small group made a Christmas wreath this afternoon ready for the festive season.   Once you know the basics, you can make as many as you want.   Our houses will look fabulous for Christmas.

That's it for flowering arranging this year, but do come along and join us in January.

Lynn Mitchell

Unfortunately, there were only four of us walking today between Redcar and Saltburn.  We stepped it out along the seafront, enjoyed our bacon buns and made our way back to Saltburn with the wind blowing in our faces.  It's a nice easy walk, gives us lots of fresh air and plenty of time to chat.  Not a bad way to spend a Monday morning!

Lynn Mitchell

As you all enjoyed the Christmas meal this year we're returning to The King's Grill on Milton Street again.

The menu is £15 per person, plus tip, payable at the January meeting.

Starters
Homemade plum tomato and basil soup
Duck liver pate with warm toast and plum chutney
Garlic mushrooms on toast with watercress salad

Main course
Roast leg of pork with stuffing and crackling
Chicken breast with tarragon and muchroom sauce
Grilled hake fillet with creamed potato and mornay sauce

Desserts
Sticky toffee pudding with ice cream
Bread and butter pudding with vanilla custard
Eton mess

A difficult choice!

It was lovely to see five visitors at last night's meeting.  We hope you enjoyed the evening and will visit us again.

All our shoeboxes, 30 of them, have been posted.  Let's hope they arrive safely and in time for Christmas and cheer our brave troops.

Don't forget it's our party next month and it's in the Emmanuel Church Hall at 7pm.  There will be a pooled supper to share with all our guests.

Mr Tate gave an excellent talk on Glenhow, Saltburn's school on Albion Terrace, which only closed in 1992.  He started by telling us about the beginnings of education before moving on to Glenhow and rounded off with anecdotes from his time at the school. 

Lynn Mitchell

What an excellent turnout for Supper Club this month!  It was lovely to see 23 WI ladies on a cold, wet, miserable October evening and we kept the staff busy at Signals in Saltburn.  I know you all enjoyed the food, there was plenty of choice and good sized portions.  Signals has recently opened it's doors on a few evenings as a bistro and we wish them luck with their new venture.  We certainly had a lovely evening.

Lynn Mitchell

Welcome back.  Here's a quick summary of last night's meeting.

Firstly, thank you to all those who brought shoeboxes for the troops.  We've received over 30.  It's not too late if you haven't got yours ready; take it round to Ann's as soon as you can.

A hand knitted blanket has been donated and passed onto the Neo-natal unit at James Cook where it will join the Christmas raffle as part of their fundraising.

Mrs Barron was our guest speaker from Zoe's Place.  She gave us a very good insight into the workings at the children's hospice in Normanby, stressing that it was a happy place to work.  The hospice only takes six children at any one time and they all have one to one care so there is lots of time to play and stimulate them.  She talked about the voluntary help and the huge amount of fundraising required to keep this desparately needed facility open.

The competition was something starting with the letter "O".  There weren't many entries.  Let's try harder next month, ladies,  it's the letter "N".

Lynn Mitchell

I missed Supper Club last week - I was busy enjoying my holidays.  The venue was Markse's Zetland Hotel, commonly known as the Top House.  From what I've been told it was a good night.  You all enjoyed the food, and the price wasn't bad either, was it?  Another success!!

Does anyone have any suggestions for supper clubs in the future?  I'd love to hear from you.

Lynn Mitchell

We would like to run another "Let's Cook" course at the end of January 2012, hopefully at the De Brus Centre in Skelton.  This session will be run for families on low incomes.  Do you know anyone who might like to come along?  There is no charge and we'll also provide a creche.
If you'd like to help out with the cooking, we'd love to have you.

Lynn Mitchell

The first WI meeting took place on 16th September 96 years ago.  WI have linked this date with our Library campaign and asked every member to check out a book today.  Did you take out a book or two?

Skelton Library offered us space for a recruitment display to coincide with the anniversary.  Six volunteers covered the day drumming up support for Saltburn WI.  We did get quite a lot of interest - let's hope some of these ladies give us a try.  We've left our display for all to see for another few weeks, but we'll be back next week to try again.  A new Mother and Toddler group starts on Friday afternoons - we may even recruit some young mums!!

Thank you to all the volunteers.

Lynn Mitchell

On August 24th Saltbburn W.I. went on a outing to Boundary Mill, for a bit of retail therapy and of course a day out. We arrived at 11.30am in time for coffee before the big hunt for bargains !!, it was sale time. We met up again at the Coffee Shop for Afternoon Tea, Sandwiches, sweet pastries, cream scones and a glass of Pimms, which we all enjoyed. At 4.30pm we boarded the coach to travel to Crook Hall & Gardens and an early evening Champagne Reception. We were welcomed at the Hall by Maggie and Keith Bell who have lived there since 1995. Maggie gave us a personal insight into living in a haunted Medieval Manor House. Then after a tour of the rest of the house we went outside for a walk around the beautiful well kept gardens, and with permission, if we wanted, helped ourselves to plums from a branch that had fallen off the tree due to the weight of the plums. Plastic bags provided. We all had a wonderful time, and boarded the coach for home just after eight.

Sorry, ladies.  The walk is cancelled this month.  Don't worry though, we will pencil this one into the diary as soon as the Moorsbus starts running next year.

Lynn Mitchell

In the Craft and Produce Show there's a class for cot blankets that are donated to James Cook Neo-natal Unit.  Following this year's show we've received a lovely thank you card from one family who were delighted to be given a blanket for their tiny baby, Pippa, born at 24 weeks weighing just over 1lb.  They enclosed £5 for us to buy wool to knit some more blankets.  Knitters in the Craft Class will take up the challenge!  
Hopefully, Pippa gets home really soon.

Lynn Mitchell

Did you visit our Flower Festival in June?  Well, as you may know, it was a great success.  There were donation plates around the church, a craft stall as well as the usual WI cake stall.  We handed over nearly £1000 to Emmanuel Church for their Echo project.
Should we do it again next year???

Lynn Mitchell

Well, that's our summer break over and we're back to normal.   Hope you all enjoyed your free time.

We sang Jerusalem - did it get you in the mood for Last Night of the Proms this Saturday?   Not a lot of business to discuss but there are a few things and outings to look forward to :
a Christmas Fayre at Wynyard Hall followed by tea at No 4, Sedgefield
Christmas at Crook Hall or Chatsworth - pleease choose
a Royal Jubilee lunch in June
a Wedding Dress/Flower Festival event in June
Looks like we'll not be at home much.

Linda Ford from the Red Cross Befriending Service popped in to tell us about this new service in East Cleveland.   If you know of anyone who could use this service or if you would like to become a volunteer she'd love to hear from you.

We then finished the evening with a pooled supper and you did us proud again.   Thank you.

Lynn Mitchell

Just a few photos to give a taste of the day.  Our WI Scarecrow came third, thanks to Wendy's hard work.

Lots of lovely lemon drizzle cakes .... mmmm.......

Beautiful flowers

and vegetables galore.

We had our 5th Craft and Produce Show on Saturday, 20th August.   It was well supported with entries, although we could do with more in the Quilting Section!   There were lots of lovely entries from the chldren.   The Produce section was set up in marquees outside and the weather was good to us.   We were very well organised with the entries booking in onto the computer, thanks to Cath and Annette.   As usual, Maureen put on a lovely lunch much appreciated by the helpers and the public.   Many thanks to everyone who helped.   It was a lovely day.

Nancy Eastwood

Well, we've done it again.   Another excellent Craft and Produce Show is behind us and everything went well.   We had nearly 400 entries, although it would have been nice to have lots more.   The marquees for the Produce and Flowers were stood on the grass in front of the Church, it looked like a real country show.   The vegetables did look good, if a bit sparse on the tables.   Can we have a few more next year please?

The exhibits in the Church Hall nearly filled the tables - still room for lots more next year - and gave the judges a hard task picking the winner.   It was lovely to see quite a few entries from Huntcliff's Year 8  with their   pictures of Historical Saltburn, thanks to Miss Mahon.

A very big thank you to the Judges, Stewards and Committee for all their hard work, for Maureen and her team in the kitchen keeping us fed and watered throughout the day, and to Stuart Smith for presenting the trophies.   We should also thank Dawn from Barclays.  She came along as a helper as part of Barclays "Match Funding in the Community" and stayed with us all day.  Hope you enjoyed yourself Dawn.

If anyone has any comments, good or bad, about the Show please get in touch.

I will add some photos very soon.  

Lynn Mitchell

There's only four days left before the show.   Have you got your crafts ready?   Are your vegetables looking good?   How about your baking and preserves?

If you are a steward at the show, you'll know that there is to be a training session on Thursday morning, 10.00am at Ann's house.   That's the easy bit -   you'll have to   remember it till Saturday!!

We are using a new computer booking-in system this year, fingers crossed it all works fine on the day.

So, we're ready......   watch this space!

Lynn Mitchell

The ladies WI was held on Thursday, 14th July in the Methodist Chapel.   The meeting was well attended.   Our speaker was Mr Les Howe.   He is a silversmith and he brought many of his beautiful pieces to show us.   Mr Howe is a very clever and talented man and his talk was very interesting and also very amusing.   He is an excellent speaker and kept us well entertained.   One of our ladies, Mrs Doris Broadberry, was presented with a cake as she is 90 years old, and for those who can remember, she was the sister of Maurice Downs who had the token shop for many years.   Our Saltburn in Bloom lunch went very well, a big thank you to all the helpers.   The lunch went very well as usual and was enjoyed by all.   A thank you letter was read out.   There is no WI in August, but our Craft and Produce Show will be held on August 20th.

Eileen Leonard

Well, five ladies were out walking again, making  most of the summer weather.  This month we took it easy and had a gentle stroll from the cattle arch in Saltburn along the coast to our favourite spot - The Stray Cafe at Redcar.  We were ready for our bacon buns long before we reached the cafe, and we savoured every mouthful.  At least by walking back we used up the calories!

Lynn Mitchell

This month we went to Tocketts Mill at Guisborough for Supper Club.   With our choice of menu already ordered we eagerly awaited our food, but we were also tempted with the carvery that was right in front of our table.   The food was lovely (clean plates all round) and the service was good even though the restaurant was very busy.   We found out that between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday evenings the carvery is offering two meals for £10 - it must be popular, there was quite a queue.  I think we could be paying Tocketts Mill another visit for the carvery!

Lynn Mitchell

A very big thank you to Pauline for another excellent day.   She really has worked hard to organise such a full programme.   For those of you who missed out here goes:-
Leaving Saltburn at 8.20am we headed over to Leeming Bar to the Wensleydale Railway for an hours train ride with tea/coffee and homemade biscuits (delicious!).   The coach collected us and drove to Leyburn where we had an hour looking around the town.   We stopped in Bainbridge for a lovely lunch provided by the WI and then back onto the coach for a drive across the Yorkshire Dales.   Our next stop was Grassington, another lovely old-fashioned country town (I fancy a weekend away there now).   After an hour it was time for our return journey to Saltburn, arriving at 7pm - a full day.  

This will take some beating but I'm sure Pauline's up to the challenge.

Lynn Mitchell  

Ann and Pauline handing over some money collected for Denman College during lunch (A Million Cups of Tea for Denman), photo by Pam Reece.

Here's a photo of Pen Hill from the train taken by Pam Reece.

On Monday evening Saltburn W.I. was invited along with Redcar,Brotton,Loftus, Hutton Low Cross,Fryup,and Eskmoor W.I.to an evening entertainment by a Funeral Director Mr George Martin of Hartlepool.He was very amusing and everyone had a good laugh at his tales of his job.He also was a monk at Newark when he was a young man and got up to some pranks maybe that is why he is not one now. We all enjoyed tea and scones and thanked Moorsholm for an enjoyable evening.

Pam Reece

Ladies of Saltburn WI met on Thursday the 9th June at Saltburn Methodist Church.  The speaker was Mr. B. Robertson from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People,  We were told about the extensive training the dogs undertake and how they are matched in temperament with their owners, having to live together 24/7.  Hearing Dogs are trained to alert their owners to the sounds of fire alarms, smoke alarms, telephones ringing, doorbells, baby alarms etc.  Assistance Dogs as they are now known always belong to the Society who provide all their veterinary care for life; the average cost of this being about £40,000.  Dogs are generally spaniels, poodles, labradors and retrievers or crosses of these types.  2 out of 3 people are disappointed who apply for a dog and the failure rate of dogs not making the grade is quite high.  Once a dog is matched to an individual they receive 5 days training together,  Hearing Dogs allow owners to have confidence to live independently and securely in the knowledge they have a reliable friend who will look after their individual needs.  Ladies of the WI held a flower festival in Emmanuel Parish Church as part of the towns 150 year celebrations.  Over 30 displays were exhibited from many different societies and organisations connected with the town.  A delegate from Saltburn WI represented the group at Liverpool AGM to vote against the closure of libraries.  The resolution about proposed mega farms was stood-down by the delegates as it was considered badly worded and WI members needed further clarification and information before voting could be considered.  Next months speaker is Mr. L. Howe, Silversmith.  Ladies of the WI meet for a variety of activities throughout the month and new members are always welcome.

Barbara Spanner

Well, we've enjoyed a long leisurely lunch at Turners Mill today.   One of the good things about this pub is - no children, a pleasant change for those of us who regularly babysit.  It was very busy and we were told there would be a 30 minute wait but that didn't bother us - more time to chat!   The food was really tasty and everyone cleaned their plates - was that because we'd had to wait??  

Lynn Mitchell

It won't be long now till the Craft and Produce Show.  Posters and schedules are being dropped off at garden centres, allotments, shops and libraries.  (There's a pdf version on our front page if you want to download your own).  Start preparing now and have lots of entries ready for Saturday, 20th August.

Lynn Mitchell

On 7^th June I left home for my first WI AGM to be held in Liverpool as the delegate from Saltburn.  Twenty seven women from various parts of Teesside travelled by coach to attend the meeting. Having not met any of the other delegates prior to the day or indeed never having attended an AGM before I was somewhat anxious – but quite unnecessarily – as I was warmly welcomed by all and reassured about what my role would be.  We arrived in Liverpool around lunch-time and checked into our hotel called Hard Days Night which was themed on the Beatles era.  Iconic photographs adorned the hotel of singers and bands of the sixties along with theatre posters.  One poster advertising Acker Bilk and his jazz men with the Beatles as one of the supporting acts; tickets costing 7s.6d.

After booking in we walked the short distance into the City centre for a spot of lunch and a retail browse.  The weather suddenly changed, the heavens opened and the thunder cracked.  We decided to get on an open top bus and travel on the lower deck to get a geographical perspective of Liverpool – visiting Albert Dock, Liver Buildings, two cathedrals, City museum etc.   After dinner in the hotel we retired for an early start next day – the AGM in the Echo Arena in the Albert Dock area of the city.

The Echo Arena is a modern forum and Ruth Bond Chair NFWI opened the meeting with the singing of Jerusalem.  In her address Ruth said she was extremely pleased with the increase in WI membership, particularly with numbers of young women under 30 joining -  about 100 a week.  She said that 2015 would be the centenary year with 2012 being the archive year.  WI’s were superb note takers and minutes of WI’s were exact records of events as some years beyond living memory.  Ruth told us how she had represented the WI in The Hague on Climate change, visited Wandsworth Prison, the House of Lords, Clarence House and No. 10.  She spoke about how pleased she was with the new logo and badge.  She also mentioned Moodle (encouraging members to visit website) the Lets Cook local courses (more lottery money) and Denman College courses.

Treasurers Report by Aleathia Mann

Subscription level not yet decided for 2012.  A target set of 250,000 members to support growth in membership and the work done.  102 New WI institutes formed last year.  WI Enterprise finances satisfactory and makes a profit. 

Updates on Campaigns

The 2010 Resolution for improved labelling including country of origin is gathering speed. Consumers confused by information.  The WI is going to Strasbourg in July to lobby European Government for mandatory approach.  The resolution of 2009 that Prison is not the best place for those with mental health problems has resulted in Diversion Schemes directing mentally ill people from Magistrates Courts into hospital or social care facilities. Mention was made of the proposed abolition of cheques in 2018.  WI invited to sit on Payments Council.  Abolition of cheques driven by Banks.  Cheques cover 15 out of 16 parameters of payment.  Members invited to let the WI know if they have any problems using cheques.

Guest Speakers

The first of the three speakers was ERWIN JAMES, a convicted murderer who told us about his impoverished childhood with the death of his mother when he was 9 years old and life with his alcoholic father.  After a lifetime of crime and 20 years in prison a psychologist encouraged him to write.  It was the only subject at school that he had received any praise for and he remembered fondly his primary school teacher.  Eventually through study and completing a journalist course he wrote letters for fellow prisoners and a column for the Guardian Newspaper – and still does. He was an individual who felt passionately about the need for more rehabilitation in prisons and is now a Trustee of the Prison Reform Trust. He said that never in his wildest fantasies would he have believed that he would be addressing thousands of WI ladies.

DR RITA GARDENER who is the first woman Director of the National Geographical Society emphasised the importance of Geography in schools.  She spoke about how knowledge of geography and the landscape helps individuals understand the effect of carbon footprints and prevents climate change.  She told of travelling exhibition currently in Oxford displaying hundreds of landscape photographs with text explaining climate change on landscape.  A cheer went up from our corner when one of the photographs shown was the potash train travelling along the coastal cliffs of Saltburn. 

SIR STEVE REDGRAVE the five times Olympic Gold Oarsman and a Fair Trade Ambassador.  He spoke of his work in Malawi and Zambia.   How Fair Trade is committed to giving a fair days pay for a days work.  He said if you asked an African to prioritise what was most valuable to them between water, health and education the answer was always education.  If you were educated you would find water. Women were better at crop production because they listened to instruction more actively and understood how to fertilise the land.  AIDS has drastically reduced the male population of Africa and this is one of the reasons women are now allowed to help in the production of crops in co-operative farms.

RESOLUTIONS

The Resolution urging the government to maintain support for local libraries was passed with a result of  97.79% in favour.

The second Resolution “This meeting abhors the practice of factory farming particularly large animals such as pigs and cows, urges H.M. Government to ensure planning permission is not granted” was contentious.  Speakers for and against the motion could not prevent a call from the floor to shelve the resolution because it was  felt to be badly worded and delegates did not have enough information on the subject to make an informed decision.  After lively exchanges a proposal was made to move onto the next item on the Agenda. As a novice delegate this was an extraordinary turn of events to witness and apparently the decision not to vote at all on a resolution is the first of its kind for the WI. 

DENMAN COLLEGE

Members were urged to use this unique facility.  We were told about all the new courses on offer and about the on-going refurbishments.  Funds are still desperately needed to continue this good work and a challenge was thrown out to all WI members to raise one million pounds in the next year.  That could be achieved if every member of the Organisation sold five cups of coffee in the year for a £1 a cup. This money would be used to install a new heating system amongst other things.

Trustees of the Board

Ann Harrison was voted on for North Yorkshire West and Pat Tulip for Northumberland.

The day ended with five young, glamorous and talented WI members known as the Harmonies singing some of the songs they recently recorded.

The Members then sang Jerusalem, Land of our Fathers (in welsh) and the National Anthem.

This was an interesting and informative couple of days away and gave me an insight into how much notice Government take of the WI and its members.

Barbara Spanner

This is one of the wonderful creations Niki Hampson makes with her Handmade Papermaking Craft which she calls "Pulpitations".  This one was set in a frame and lit from behind to make a lamp, it was beautiful.  We had a wonderful evening being shown how to make the pulp from all recycled paper which was first torn into small strips and then put in a kitchen liquidizer to pulp, placed in a large dish of water mixed about then the pulp lifted out on a small square sieve and pressed flat with a sponge and turned out on to a J cloth.  She made it look so simple but you can guess if we tried it I don't think it is.  We  rounded the evening off with a lovely supper and a lovely drive home, with a very nice Driver.

Pam Reece

Saltburn WI held a Flower Festival in Emmanuel Church starting on Monday arranging the flowers right through to Sunday.  We had a preview evening on Wednesday night with a pianist and two lovely singers.  Our week included a cake stall, which also sold jams and chutneys.  We were very well supported with visitors coming in as far as Cheshire.  It was hard but really successful and enjoyable.

Nancy Eastwood

The Flower Festival is a SUCCESS.  There are over 30 floral displays, some small and some huge, every kind of arrangement possible is in Emmanuel Church this week and you can smell the flowers as soon as you walk in.
Year 1 from Saltburn Primary School have mini gardens and carrots in bottles, the Allotment Association have a good display of flowers, herbs and vegetables and Chocolini's have a wonderful flower arrangement in chocolate, and it smells wonderful too!
Wednesday evening was the official opening by Rev. Adam Reed, with invited guests from those who had sponsored the floral arrangements and our own members.  We were delighted to have Diane and Megan singing to us before our refreshments.  It set the evening perfectly.
There was a constant stream of visitors on Thursday and Friday, with lots of comments on how lovely the arrangements were.  Saturday morning was off to an excellent start and we were kept very busy showing people around, easing off around lunchtime.  Our guest organists, Roger Lobely and Charles Knowles, played some beautiful pieces on the organ during the afternoon filling the church with lots more atmosphere.
Let's hope we have as many visitors tomorrow.  It's your last chance to visit - we're open 12pm to 4pm.  Get yourselves along.
A big, big thank you to those who have arranged the flowers, aided the arrangers, donated the flowers, baked cakes and manned the tables.  It needs input from everyone to run an event like this!

Lynn Mitchell

We'll say, remember that summer's day when we walked around Guisborough Woods in really hot sunshine?  It was lovely to be out in the gorgeous weather, listening to the birds, taking in the views and stretching our legs.  They have had a trim track and some new children's play equipment installed in the woods, and you really must see the wood carvings of animals and birds, they're very clever.  We walked, and chatted, following a route to Blue Lake but we didn't quite make it - we ran out of time!  Still there's always another day.  Any excuse to be out in the countryside.

Here's Judith and Lynn posing for the camera in the woods!

Lynn Mitchell

Apologies to our walkers this month.   As some of our walkers can't make Friday, and they don't want to miss Carlton Bank, we'll give Guisborough Woods an "airing".   Meet at 10am at the Visitor Centre. 
We'll visit Carlton Bank later in June.  Dates and times to follow.

Lynn Mitchell

This morning, bright and early (it felt as if we'd even beaten the larks) three of us descended upon the flower warehouse in Middlesbrough to pick the best of the bunch!!  It was a hard job choosing flowers for all the arrangements that our WI are making - for ourselves and for several groups who've donated the cash for us to make on their behalf.  There was so much choice and variety - and the colours, well there was every colour.  It took us over two hours and then we completely filled the boots of two cars to transport our flowers back to Emmanuel Church.  At the moment the flowers are resting (so are we) before work starts on Saturday, making two pedestals for the induction of the new vicar on Sunday. 

Lynn Mitchell

Saltburn Ladies WI met at Milton Street Chapel on Thursday, 12th May.  This Thursday was our Resolutions meeteing, where members must vote on Government issues.  There were two this year, intensive farming and the closure of libraries.  Both were voted down, and if all WIs nationwide vote the same way, believe it or not, we carry some clout.  Later we had a talk about the history of the WI by Mrs Ann Cowie, with slides by Mr Tony Lynn on projects that the ladies have been involved in around Saltburn over the years.   Also, how beautiful we all looked in our hats and posh frocks  at a meal we had the other Saturday to celebrate the wedding of Prince William and Catherine.  This was followed by pie and peas, and all in all, it was a very pleasant evening.

Eileen Leonard

It was our first visit to Peter and Colin's Chinese Restaurant in Guisborough for this month's supper club.   14 ladies turned out on a very chilly evening which was more like winter than spring.   The food was excellent; there was a wide choice on the menu, and there was also plenty to eat - we couldn't eat it all there was so much, but we did have a good try!   The staff were very friendly and helpful.   Unfortunately, it was a quiet night and we were the only customers which meant that the restaurant lacked a bit of atmosphere.  They say that it's busier on Friday and Saturday nights, if you wish to try it again.
There's more time to socialise at supper club and catch up with friends than at our monthly meeting, so why not join us next month?

Lynn Mitchell

We excelled again today with some wonderful creations, with a little help from Jean. It's amazing what can be achieved with a few chrysanths, a bit of greenery and some bear grass.  Every arrangement looked totally different even though we use the same basic materials.
We're getting  ready for the Flower Festival now and today's class has helped prepare us!  I'll be more of a helper than an arranger, but everyone's help is necessary.
Our small, but lively, group enjoy the monthly flower class.  Why not come along and join us?

Lynn Mitchell

It's that time of year again ... the Annual Group Rally   was hosted by Redcar.
Secretaries from all the WIs read their reports of whats been happening.   It's done alphabetically and by the time it gets to Saltburn - we're last - I'm quite exhausted at what other groups have done.   You'll all be pleased to know that our programme is very full and varied compared to some, but we do have the advantage of having a fairly big membership, and a very committed committee.
The guest speaker was John Foster from BBC Radio Tees who talked to us about his life on the radio from his early schooldays to the present.   He was a really interesting and funny speaker, with lots of anecdotes, musical accompaniments and the time passed very quickly.  
Redcar ladies had put on a superb spread for supper.   No point counting calories!
It's our turn next year.   Tonight will take some beating!

Lynn Mitchell

Tonights meeting was the Resolutions Meeting and there were only two resolutions to discuss - against mega farming and the closure of local libraries.  The pros and cons were pointed out for both issues and all our members voted for the resolutions.
President, Ann, gave a very interesting and humurous presentation on the origins of the Women's Institute in Canada to the birth of Saltburn and coming right-up-to date.  Thanks to Tony Lynn for his photographic and computer help.  Photos of our wedding lunch were seen for the first time - didn't we all look posh!  Mind you, there were some photos that should never see the light of day! 
The evening was rounded off with some lovely pies and peas, or a jacket potato if you preferred, from the Artisan bread man who was last month's speaker .  Mmmmmm .... very tasty.

Lynn Mitchell

Maureen, Pauline, Nancy and myself registered for the Starlight Stroll run by Teesside Hospice.   It's a seven mile walk from Redcar College to Baydales School along the seafront and back again to the College. We joined 700 other ladies to start the walk at 10pm.   Lots of them were wearing flashing fluffy ears and fairy wings and it was a lovely sight to see as we left the College to walk over Black Bridge see all the lights flashing.   Locals were coming out of their houses and pubs to cheer us on, cars were tooting their horns and the marshalls along the route were spurring us on too.   It was a great atmoshpere!   We made it in two and a half hours and we've got the tee-shirts and medals to prove it.   We're on for next year.   Come with us and   give it a try.

Thank you if you sponsored us - it's not too late to donate if you would like to.  

Lynn Mitchell

Pauline's done it again, another wonderful day out.   The first of two groups visited the Archbishop of York's Palace.   What a magnificent building, set in a small village right by the river.   We were met by our tour guide who was a mine of information and humorous with it.  He escorted us through the 14th century to the present day visiting the Chapel, the State Dining Room and the Drawing Room along the way, via tea and cream scones - naughty but nice!

The afternoon was spent in sunny York.  There's plenty to do and see, lots of places to eat so everyone was happy to do their own thing.  Time passed quickly and we were back on the bus by 4pm and off home. 

Wednesday's group are in for a treat as we all had a marvellous day.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies, we've got our photo in the Talk of the Town.  We're now "Famous".  The staff at the Bay of Bengal asked to take photos of our group at supper club in March and we're on the inside of the front cover.  The lucky ladies at the end of the table are very easy to see.  Autographs anyone?

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies, you certainly did yourselves proud for our Royal Wedding lunch in all your finery and hats.  It was a wonderful day, with a wonderful meal and good company.  We hope you all enjoyed yourselves.  I did hear one comment that "this is better than a street party" - I couldn't agree more!

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies of Saltburn WI met on Thursday, April 14th at the Methodist Church.   The speaker, Mr David Wrigley, from Sweet Art in Marske, spoke about the artisan baker.   He told us about the varieties of breads and processes of baking the loaf.   We heard about the different kinds of wheat used and what could be added to make exotic breads such as hazelnuts, cheese, olive and so on.   David offers a semolina loaf, which those with a wheat allergy find an attractive bread.   A thoroughly enjoyable and interesting evening concluded with tastings of some of the breads.
It has been a busy month club wise with a trip to the Sunderland Empire Theatre to see Calendar Girls.   Members were invited to join other local groups at the Methodist Church for Gardener's Question Time followed by supper on 4th April.  Ladies of Saltburn WI provided lunch for Britain in Bloom judges and guests on 5th April.   The Club is also hosting a Flower Festival in June at Emmanuel Church.   Members meet regularly for different activities including walking, flower arranging, craft and supper club.   Next month we have Pie and Pea supper which will follow Resolutions Meeting.

Barbara Spanner

29 teams entered the Federation Quiz this year, including two from Saltburn.  Congratulations to Ann, Diane, Maureen and Wendy - they came fifth.  Didn't they do well?  Our other team didn't do quite as well, but it's the taking part that counts!

Lynn Mitchell

It was a day to "shop till we drop".   We left a foggy Saltburn at 8.30am and then drove through beautiful sunshine and countryside to Colne where it was time to have some serious retail therapy.   Everyone seemed fully laden when 4pm arrived and it was time to hit the road home.   Then we could just sit back, relax and enjoy the last of the sunshine - Saltburn was still covered in a blanket of fog, just as well we went out for the day!

Lynn Mitchell

Tonight's meeting was a first for our speaker, Mr Wrigley, who has never given a talk to such a large group. His talk on artisan breads was very interesting and his samples very tasty - a french bread, a rye bread, a nutty bread and a semolina bread.  He explained how he bakes compared to the supermarkets - no wonder his bread tasted better!  We'll all be visiting his shop on the Wynd, Marske from now on.

This year we're trying a different kind of competition.  The items will begin with the letter of the month, hence "a" for April.  The table was full tonight, it obviously caught the ladies imagination, everything from an angel ornament, aerosols, aprons to albums and antiques.  Thank you all for taking part.

Lynn Mitchell

The judging for Britain in Bloom took place this afternoon.   Let's hope all went well.
For the WI, it was business as usual in the kitchen preparing lunch for the judges, committee and helpers.   Everyone enjoyed their meal, clean plates all round.
A big thank you to all our WI cooks, waitresses and dishwashers!   Everyone worked really well.

Lynn Mitchell

Monday @ 8 invited us to their meeting this week.   It was "Gardeners Question Time" and I can say it was a really good night.   The panel, two people from Scarborough Council and a retired garden centre owner, were brilliant.   They bounced off each other perfectly.   The banter between them was humorous and their knowledge of plants was superb.   They explained how to   check our shrubs and be able to tell if they're still alive which is really handy after the winter we've just had!   Advice flowed all evening.
The ladies at Monday @ 8 served a wonderful buffet supper at the end of the evening.   Another excellent night.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies at the Craft Day are slowly making the banner for our Flower Festival.   It's starting to take shape now and looking good.   It shows all our activities in pictures and fabrics.   Next month will see it finished.
The crafts are interrupted by a wonderful lunch (or is it the other way round?) and lots of good humour and banter.   Come and see for yourselves.

Lynn Mitchell

Members of Saltburn WI met on Thursday, March 10th at the Methodist Church in Saltburn.   The speaker was Mrs E Rowlands who told us about her work with Coast Watch.   Those of us who live close to the sea have an appreciation of how vital this work is, especially as the last manned coastguard station was closed in 1994.   In the 1970s there were 159 constantly manned stations and 198 auxiliary ones; now there are just four co-ordinating centres.   There were 160 manned lighthouses in the 1990s and 30 manned light ships but now all are automated.   The coast watch tower for our area is located above the Redcar Lifeboat Museum and affords a good vantage point for monitoring all shipping and sea related activities.   We are constantly reminded of how fickle the moods of the sea can be and how this important voluntary service keeps our shoreline and the many users of the sea safe.

Barbara Spanner

Tonigiht was another new experience for Supper Club - the Bay of Bengal.  This Indian Restuarant opened just before Christmas so we tried it this month.  18 ladies sampled the early bird menu and all agreed it was delicious and well worth £9.95.  Clean plates all round, I'm sure it'll become a favourite.

Lynn Mitchell

Well, it was a bit blustery today wasn't it?   It was wild - the wind just blew us all the way round our "park to   park" walk.   At least the sun was shining.   It was lovely just wandering around Stewarts Park then across the fields to Ormesby Hall.   It's a wonderful view of the Hall from the back.   When the Hall was built the Pennyman family   could see right across to the river - now it's all housing and industry - just as well they planted plenty of trees to hide today's view!  
The company and conversation makes a good morning.     We all finished off the walk with rosy faces!

Lynn Mitchell

Did we all enjoy our trip to Sunderland Empire Theatre to see Calendar Girls?  The show was brilliant, the cast were word perfect and it was just a wonderful show to watch - through a few tears and a lot of laughs.  What an excellent night.  I hope there's more shows like it!

Lynn Mitchell

We're starting our meetings with a rousing version of Jerusalem.  Let us know what you think about it.

Mrs Rowlands gave us a really interesting and amusing talk on Coastwatch.  You can tell she enjoys her "retirement" - they are looking for volunteers so you could join her!

Lynn Mitchell

If you like flowers, come along.  Learn with friends how to make some beautiful arrangements.  Here's what we got up to this week.

Lynn Mitchell

Last month we had a brainstorming session and decided to make a banner for the Flower Festival.  This month we all turned up with something to go on to the banner.  There's some good ideas going into this.  Come and join in next month, everyone's welcome.  Bring food for a pooled lunch.

Lynn Mitchell

We've been busy during the month with all our activities.  We hope there's something there for you!

Flowers, on 16th February, saw us all making an arrangement of our choice.  With Pauline's help and guidance there were some stunning arangements to take home.  It's amazing what you can do with a few flowers and a bit of greenery!

On Thursday, 17th February we were off walking.  We met at the Cattle Arch at 10 am and set off through the allotments winding our way through Marske and along Coast Road to the Stray Cafe.  After we'd refreshed ourselves with a lovely bacon bun and a cup of tea we were ready to walk back.  It didn't seem to take as long going back but we all had a few aches at the end.  Never mind, it's keeping us fit and healthy!
Some of us are planning on taking part in Teesside Hospice's Starlight Stroll on 7th May.  Does anyone else want to join us?

Alessi's was the choice for this month's supper club.  Did everyone enjoy it?  I hope so.  Any suggestions for different venues, let us know.

Lynn Mitchell

Saltburn Ladies, WI met on Thursday, February 10th at the Methodist Chapel.   It was our Annual General Meeting where the Committee and President, Mrs Ann Cowie, were retained unopposed.   As the saying goes "Why fix it if it ain't broken?"   Our President, Mrs Cowie, has once again served us very well.   An excellent job, as   usual, was our Treasurer's report, by Mrs Cath Lynn, and a vote of thanks was given by Mrs Judith Sturdy.   So everything will go on as smoothly as before.   It was a pooled supper where everyone can show off their culinary skills and the table always looks wonderful, until we attack it, that is.   All in all, it was a good night.

Eileen Leonard

It's that time of year again - our Annual Meeting.  Time to vote for a new Committee and President.  Our members are so pleased with the present Committee and President that we've all been voted back on for another year.  The Committee will try and keep up the standard.  If you have any ideas or suggestions for things to do or places to see, please let us know.
The evening was rounded off with another superb pooled supper .

Lynn Mitchell

Today was the first Craft Day of the year and it started with a cup of coffee and a chat - a good start!   We decided to do something together but what?   A very successful brainstorming session followed and the idea of making a banner for our June Flower Festival quickly came to life.   The banner will depict all the different activities of our WI and over the next few months we'll be busy sewing, knitting, crocheting, quilting, and maybe even a doing ofbit of applique.   The Craft group ladies are really excited and raring to go.   Pooled lunch was very tasty too!
If you fancy joining us, come along next month.  

Lynn Mitchell

Due to the cancellation of the Carol Service, Revd Adam Gaunt of St Leonard's Parish Church, Loftus offered the De Brus Group a "Songs of Praise" as an alternative.   Each WI chose a hymn and one lady from each gave a reading.   The service was well attended - the vicar suggested it should become an annual event!   To round off the evening Loftus WI put on an excellent supper.   Well done to all.

Lynn Mitchell

Saltburn Ladies WI was held on Thursday, January 13th in the Methodist Chapel.   It was well attended as it did seem ages since we had last met, because our carol service and party had been cancelled.   However, we do have our Christmas dinner yet to come, so we can look forward to that and it will be nice to be able to relax and enjoy it after all the hassle of Christmas etc.   Our speaker on Thursday was Hazel Stephenson, who spoke to us about how determined and against all odds she decided to write a novel.   She now has written three.   Her first one is called "Land Girls and Lovers".   Well worth a read as she was a very amusing lady.

Eileen Leonard

Well, ladies, we hope you all enjoyed your post Christmas lunch at the Kings Grill.   34 members sat down to a wonderful two course meal in quiet, calm and cosy surroundings.   The staff were excellent - nothing was too much trouble for them and the food was really tasty.
It seems that we'll be back there again next year!

Lynn Mitchell

Wednesday dawned crisp, bright and frosty.   Although low of numbers our walkers had an interesting circular walk through three different allotments from Skelton taking in New Skelton and North Skelton.   The number of steps (there was a lot) made up for the lack of stiles!   I think it was about three miles and took us an hour and a half - but we did have a lot of talking to catch up on after Christmas.
Join us next month, we'd love the company.

Lynn Mitchell

Happy new year to everyone.  Hopefully the weather won't spoil our calendar this year.

Our original speaker from the Primary Care Trust cancelled as the PCT no longer exists.  Hazel Stephenson stepped into the breach and gave us a talk on how she came to write a book on the Land Army Girls.  This should inspire any budding writers in our midst.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies of the Saltburn WI have had to cancel/curtail several events because of the adverse weather conditions leading up to the Christmas Period. We did, however, manage a theatre trip to Middlesbrough to see Charles Dickens 'Christmas Carol' and also enjoyed afternoon tea in the wonderful setting of Wynyard Hall.  We were ushered into the magnificent Mirror Room with hand-painted ceiling for tea and admired the lavish Christmas decorations which bedecked all the rooms. This allowed members a little indulgence before the rush to prepare for their own Christmas activities.

Members were delighted to see that the front cover of December's issue of Talk of the Town had a picture of the bandstand with the Christmas tree in a snow storm.  The tree and lights sponsored by the WI and 500 Club members.

The speaker for the next meeting will be P. Woodhouse from the Primary Care Trust. 

Barbara Spanner

We were all dressed up in our finery for afternoon tea at Wynyard Hall, despite the snow and ice.  The hall was all dressed up for Christmas too.
First, there was the difficult decision of which of the 13 different teas to choose.  The three tiered cake stands placed in front of us held three sandwiches, a scone with jam and cream, and four small cakes, plus a mince pie each.  Oh, where to start!!  It was absolutely delicious.
Most of us had a little wander around the hall peeking into other rooms, all very elegant.
An excellent start to Christmas.

Lynn Mitchell

You've probably all had the telephone call telling you that the Christmas party has been cancelled - along with various other events, no doubt.  The snow is taking it's toll on most things at the moment and, as we don't want any broken bones on the way to or from the party, we've reluctantly taken the decision to cancel it.
As I'm writing this, afternoon tea at Wynyard Hall is still going ahead. 
A very merry Christmas to all our members and we look forward to seeing you all next year.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies of Saltburn WI met on November 11th when Mr. David Whitlock spoke to members about North Yorkshire milestones.  Milestones were brought to Britain by the Romans and took the form of waymarkers, crosses and boundary stones and could be made of either granite or sandstone.  By Elizabethan times the Queen directed that distances should be incorporated into the markers, hence the expression the Royal Mile.  By 1850-1900 cast iron milestones were introduced and those for the whole of North Yorkshire were made by Mattisons of Bedale.  We were shown many interesting and varied examples of milestones and Mr. Whitlock gave us a whole new insight into the world of signage which many of us, as drivers, speed by without a second glance.  Members meet for a variety of community and social events throughout the month at local and county level.  A representative of Saltburn WI laid a wreath at Saltburn cenotaph on behalf of members on Sunday l4th November.

Barbara Spanner

15 ladies braved the snow to try another new venue for supper club, Virgo's.  It is only a small bistro and we virtually filled the room so it was a cosy evening.  The food was excellent.  The company and conversation rounded off a good night for all.
If you've got any suggestions for supper club, let me know please.

Lynn Mitchell

It was a busy morning for our last cookery lesson in this session.  Pizza Muffins were first on the menu and were very quickly made before moving on to either ginger biscuits or icing a christmas sponge cake. 
Everyone has had a great time learning new skills and trying new foods and they would like more lessons next year.
Here's Grace, Leah and Lisa showing off some of the goodies.

and this is Olwyn showing off her baking.

We've enjoyed showing our new friends how to cook.   They've enjoyed cooking and eating.  A good team effort!

Lynn Mitchell

It was a really horrible night, weathwerwise, for our meeting but, nevertheless, our ladies turned out in force.  A very warm welcome to two visitors this month.  We hope they enjoyed their first meeting and will be back next month.
Mr Whitlock gave us an entertaining presentation on mileposts and signposts from their origins in Julius Cesear's time to present day.  We will never look at a signpost in the same way again.

Lynn Mitchell

This afternoon we were shown how to create an arrangment on a pedestal.  Just using a tall candle holder or a wine bottle gives a different display of flowers.  As usual, everyone made a brilliant arrangement and all totally unique.
Come along and join us make a Christmas arrangment next month.

Lynn Mitchell

It was a quiet, warm day as our small band of walkers met for a short walk at Great Ayton.  It was about three miles across fields giving us time to have a good chat and take in the views.  We then finished off with a lovely coffee/tea at "Number 5" - well worth a visit.
The boots can have a rest in December but we'll be back in January.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies of Saltburn WI met on the 14th October when Mr.Lowe spoke to members about Cleveland wild flowers.  Mr. Lowe gave members specimens of common flowering plants to identify and gave us botanical information about different plant types.  A slide show of various examples of wild flowering plants from around Cleveland completed an informative and enjoyable evening.

Members meet for a variety of social events throughout each month including craft, flowering arranging and walking groups, supper club and other activities.  Ladies visited Boundary Mill for a little retail therapy on the 20th October, 2010. 

 If you would like to join us as a visitor or to make new friends please visit our website www.Saltburnwi.org.uk or join us every second Thursday (but not August) at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church, Milton Street, Saltburn.  Next month the speaker will be Mr. David Whitlock who will  be telling us about Milestones.  New members most welcome.

Barbara Spanner

When we received a request from the York National Trust Walking Group to provide afternoon tea, we said "YES".  Plans were put into action.  The "room with a view", opposite the pier, was booked for Sunday, 12th September, cakes were baked, sandwiches made, tables laid and a small number of committee members eagerly awaited the arrival of the walkers.  26 walkers plus driver sat down to afternoon tea - they cleaned the plates and took some cake home.  Stella's  shortbread gained her a proposal of marriage!

Reply from the Walkers  "I have been asked by the Walking Group Committee to thank everyone concerned for what turned out to be a wonderful tea. ....  Thank you all for the efforts you made in obtaining the room and providing the delicious tea".

Lynn Mitchell

If you've got some spare time on a Friday morning we desperately need some more help with the cookery course for MIND.  They really do appreciate this course and everyone gets a lot out of it.  Give it a try please!
This week's menu was vegetarian Shepherds Pie followed by Banoffee Trifle.  Another successful morning.  Everyone worked really hard and they all took home their delicious food.

Lynn Mitchell

We went off to Osmotherley for this month's walk, Pauline's childhood home.  She pointed out the Methodist Chapel which was well tucked in between the houses and then she took us into the Roman Catholic Church in it's own garden, a hidden gem.  Then we strode up to the top of the village, joining the Cleveland Way onto the moors - but only for a little way.  We turned off and headed to Lady Chapel, another hidden gem, which is thought to have existed before 1397.  The Chapel is cared for by the monks from Ampleforth and is still in regular use - we noticed that there are two weddings planned for this weekend! 
Another pleasant day - the rain missed us - good company and a gentle stroll in the countryside, what more do we want?  If you missed out this month, come and join us next month.

Lynn Mitchell

Members met on 9th September when the speakers were Mr. Michael Watkiss the Store Manager of the new Sainsburys at Saltburn and Mr. Ian Wassall who will take over the post in October.  Mr. Watkiss spoke about the history of the Sainbury empire beginning with John James and Mary Ann Sainsbury starting a store in Drury Lane, London to offer quality food at reasonable prices.  By 1882 there were 4 branches.  In the first World War they took the radical move of recruiting and training women as men enlisted for War in huge numbers.  By World War II the company had rationing to contend with.  By 1950 the first self service shop was commissioned and in the l960/70 supermarkets were the norm.   In l974 the company was launched on the Stock Exchange. On to present times when there are 760 stores with 19 million customers.  The ethos of the store still remains unchanged from John James' vision "Quality Perfect Prices Fair".   Members then enjoyed a pooled supper.  On the 14th September a mystery day out was enjoyed by members.  Initially stopping at Skipton for morning coffee we were all kept guessing as we headed over Saddleworth Moor and eventually arrived at Chester.  A thoroughly enjoyable day was spent by all. 

Barbara Spanner

Let's Cook gets back into action this month for eight sessions with our friends from MIND.  We've got some new, interesting recipes for them to make.  They do need a little bit of help so if you've got some free time on a Friday morning please come along to Emmanuel Church Hall.  Check out the Calendar page for dates.  You'll get as much pleasure out of the morning as those we are helping. 

Lynn Mitchell

The weather was lovely for our walk this month.  We started out from the green at Egglescliffe, a delightful village of old cottages full of character and then  made our way along the Teesdale Way before crossing fields back to the car.  Lots of lovely scenery, swans and canoes on the river to watch, and some foraging in the hedgerows made it an enjoyable morning.
We'll be out again next month, come and join us!

Lynn Mitchell

Although there was no meeting in August WI members have had a very busy time.  We visited Hartlepool at the beginning of the month to see the tall ships involved in the race from Norway to England.  This was a thoroughly enjoyable trip, although the weather could have been kinder to us.  This, however, did not dampen our spirits and as evening fell we were treated to a finale of spectacular fireworks.  

On the 2lst of August we held our fourth craft and produce show in conjunction with Saltburn Allotment Association, in the Emmanuel Church Hall.   This was another resounding success with a record number of entries, over 350 in total.  Entries included produce, soft fruits, flowers, baking, preserves, handicrafts, photography and art.  All age groups were represented with entries from the very young upwards.  After judging the show was opened to the public and we welcomed many visitors to view the exhibits and partake of home made refreshments.  Special thanks to all those who helped make this a special event.  We look forward to next year with hopefully even more entries. 

Barbara Spanner

Well, our brave band of walkers attacked Huntcliff for a couple of hours today.  After last night's torrential downpour the path was surprisingly free of mud and we enjoyed our stroll along the cliffs in beautiful sunshine.  The sea was calm and clear, the seagulls made a bit of a noise and we were all covered in those little black bugs - nature's wonderful!
Here's Maureen, Nancy and Pauline at the other noisy bit of the walk!

Lynn Mitchell

If you didn't go, you missed a brilliant evening.   Stockton Tabernacle was a wonderful venue for tonight's SSAFA charity performance of the Last Night of the Proms and it was a "full house".   The two male voice choirs and the police band played some excellent music for us to listen to, as well as to join in.     We sung our hearts out, we waved our flags, we laughed and we clapped till our hands were sore.   Jerasulem is much better sung to music.   Well done, Pauline, you've done it again.

Lynn Mitchell

This is the demonstration flower arrangement that we'll be making next time.

We've lost our regular room at the Holiday Home but we were made very welcome at Maureen's for this month's craft day.  We got cracking making cushions ready for a stall on the Farmer's Market before sharing our lunch and having a good chat.  Thanks for the hospitality, Maureen.

Lynn Mitchell

What an excellent turnout for this month's open meeting.  We had Judge Gillance as our guest speaker telling us about his life from a village bobby in Skelton, then going onto the other side of the law by becoming a barrister then a Judge, and ending his career working in the Asylum courts.  Thanks to ouur guests from Loftus WI, Updale WI and Monday at 8 who were well fed at the end of the evening by our members' wonderful buffet.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies from Saltburn WI were to be found on their knees on Friday, 4th June. No, not praying, planting as part of the Action Earth Campaign organised by Community Service Volunteers.
Together with volunteers and wardens from Saltburn Woodland Centre they planted Buddlea, Cotoneaster, mixed flowers and herbs next to the Bat Watch.
The sun shone down as the plants were watered in and a few passing children joined in the fun, which was lovely.  Everyone enjoyed the refreshments afterwards and, hopefully, the bees and butterflies will enjoy their new floral habitat.

Maureen Potter

We slipped an extra walk in today.  We wanted to see the primroses on the cliffs at Sandsend.  It was a lovely sunny day, the sea was calm, and there were lots of walkers but, unfortunately, there weren't any primroses to be seen.  Never mind, it was good to be out and we'll try again next year.

Lynn Mitchell

Did you enjoy your fish and chips ladies?  The Sea View Fish Restaurant fried a great meal tonight and personal service too, as they were only open for us.  It's definitely well worth visiting again.

Lynn Mitchell

An excellent evening chaired by Hutton Lowcross.   The secretary's reports from each of the six WIs in the De Brus Group were given.   We're all keeping our members very busy and having fun.
The guest speaker was Colin Alderson, Pastry Chef to the Queen and his talk was "Life in the Palace Kitchens - a light hearted look at five years spent in the Royal Household of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle".   He was very interesting and humorous and we were given an insight into life downstairs as well as upstairs, what the Queen likes to eat and the interest she takes in table settings and decorations, as well as her staff.  The food he prepared seems very fancy and fiddly to us - nothing was "plain" as we know it - even a boiled egg isn't quite a boiled egg.  Hutton Lowcross provided a lovely supper following the talk and raffle.
Well done to Maureen who came third in the patisserie competition.

Lynn Mitchell

On Monday, 17th May some of our ladies walked from Grosmont to Goathland.  It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining, the birds were singing, lambs were frolicking in the fields and that calves were having their breakfast off the mams.  All the trees were in their green summer foliage and all the spring flowers were out.  To me, May is the loveliest month, and on top of all that was the beautiful views of the Yorkshire moors - a truly good to be alive day.

Eileen Leonard

Our ladies WI meeting on Thursday, 13th May was our Resolutions Meeting.  The Resolution was approved and passed unanimously.  It's nice to know the WI has some clout when they get going.
Our evening ended with a pie and pea supper which everyone enjoyed.

Eileen Leonard

Another ocassion to dress up - lunch at the Thistle Hotel followed by Sir Thomas Ingleby of Ripley Castle.  His talk was entitled "Castle Life in the 21st Century" was very entertaining and amusing, telling us about the visitors, the weddings and the tv and film stars that have used the castle.  We had a lovely day, try it next year and see for yourself.

Lynn Mitchell

15 ladies had afternoon tea, or a salad, at The Old School Room, Scaling Dam today.  What a feast, we certainly didn't go hungry.  The salads looked tempting but the afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones with fresh cream and a huge choice of cakes and biscuits, for me, won hands down. 
Now that it's not a secret anymore, I'm sure you will be visiting the tea rooms yourselves. 
Hope everyone enjoyed the food as much as I did.

Lynn Mitchell 

We were out again, this time along the banks of the Tees, taking in all the sights and crossing bridges to and fro across the river. 
We started at the Barrage and walked upstream crossing the new Infinity Bridge, the Millenium footbridge and the Victoria Bridge as well as lots of little inlets that dominate Teesdale.
It was an easy four and a half mile walk, the weather was cloudy but dry and the chatter lively.
Why not join us next time?  We'd love your company!

Lynn Mitchell

It was a glorious sunny day for the Farmer's Market.  The sun brought out the crowds and the market was very busy.  Thank you to bakers and helpers of the WI stall, the cakes and our homemade shopping bags sold very well.

Lynn Mitchell 

This cookery session for MIND has come to an end and the group cooked a salmon puff,  followed by a cream pie.  The carers have had as much fun as those from MIND.  They were delighted when we gave them all a recipe book of  everything they've prepared during this session. 
We'll be taking a rest over the summer before any more sessions start - if you'd like to join us, we'd like to see you.

We welcomed two visitors this month, we hope they enjoyed our meeting and will return.  
As the WI is known for "Jam and Jerusalem", National Federation are holding a Jam Festival in November - there are 11 different categories, so if you're interested in entering, I have the details.     Jam making courses are available at Denman College over the summer to inspire you.  
The diary is filling up - keep checking to see what we're up to.   There's always something new happening.

The speaker tonight was Brian Glover from Middlesbrough Council who gave us a presentation on the Transporter Bridge,   the longest type of its kind in the world.   The presentation covered the bridge from it's first drawings, the official opening, complete with original film, to present day.   It also included tv footage of Fred Dibner taking his steam roller onto the gondola.   The bridge will be 100 years old in 2011 and the council is hoping to have some special events to celebrate it's centenary.

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies of Saltburn WI met on11th March and were entertained by Mrs June Anderson with a light heated talk entitled "The thought that counts".   In her basket of goodies she had various objects she had received as gifts from people over her lifetime.   She described the background to receiving the gifts, the influence they had upon her life and how she treasured them.   It reminded us of the impact giving and receiving gifts has.   A trip of Kirkleatham Museum was arranged for 3rd March and ladies were able to view the exhibitions in the main building.   Members also has the opportunity to walk through the Kirkleatham Village area to view carpets of snowdrops reminding us that spring is really here.

Barbara Spanner

It's a new year for the Committee with all positions filled mainly by those already in the posts and happy to continue.  You will see from the new  programme that we've been busy booking speakers for our monthly meetings and, hopefully, you will find them varied and interesting.
We have two teams entered into the Federation Quiz in April; good luck to all.
Don't forget the Farmer's Market - bakers and stall helpers needed please  - Saturday, 10th April.
The monthly walks restart after the winter, meet 10.00am at Tees Barrage on Thursday, 15th April.
Mrs June Anderson's talk entitled "It's the thought that counts" did make you think.  She brought some small items that had been given to her, she called them her treasures, and told us who gave them, why they thought those things would be right for her and how she can't bear to part with them.  I'm sure she's not the only one!

Lynn Mitchell

It was a lovely sunny day for our visit to Kirkleatham Museum.  Firstly, a gentle stroll through the woods to see the snowdrops before enjoying a morning cuppa in the cafe.  The Museum is a wonderful building and it's history is displayed on the top floor - it has certainly had a very varied life.  There is a wonderful display of childhood toys which brings back fond memories; there is even some great working models of Meccano.  After looking around the Museum it was back to the cafe for lunch before the bus returned.  We don't have to go far to have a good day out, do we?

Lynn Mitchell

Ladies of Saltburn WI met on 11th February for their Annual Meeting.   Minutes of the previous meeting were read and agreed.   Our Treasurer, Mrs Cath Lynn, read out a financial statement of accounts for the past year to   the meeting, which had been independently audited.   Election of Officers then followed.   Mrs Ann Cowie was unanimously re-elected as President.   All existing Committee members agreed to stand for another year and were re-elected en-bloc.   Once the business part of the meeting concluded a shared buffet was enjoyed by members.   A programme of varied topics for the coming year has been drafted, offering members both educational and social events.   Ladies of the WI offer cooking sessions to members of MIND most Friday mornings.   Two easy dishes are prepared and these are appreciated by the dozen or so MIND members who regularly attend and enjoy the results of their labours at lunchtime.   WI ladies also met for monthly craft and flower arranging classes, as well as meals out in the local eateries.   If you would like to join us please visit our website www.Saltburnwi.org.uk or join us every 2nd Thursday (not August) at 7.30pm in the Methodist Church, Milton Street, Saltburn.   New members most welcome.

Barbara Spanner

It's been a year since our last Annual Meeting - where has the time gone?  It's certainly been a very busy one for the committee who have, very enthusiastically, worked, planned and organised lots of events that you've all enjoyed.  Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end - it's time to elect a new committee.  Good news though, the current committee members have all been re-elected for another year.  Even better news, our President has been re-elected too.  We hope we can keep up the good work next year!
Ladies, as usual, supper was excellent, we certainly didn't go hungry.

Lynn Mitchell

We are merrily working our way through fabric donated by IKEA; we managed to make 17 shopping bags between us and we'll sell them at the next farmer's market, and yes, there's still a lot of fabric left!  We'll be sewing a few more bags next month, so come along and join us. 

Lynn Mitchell

It was the first meal of 2010 and I hope you all enjoyed the food, the company, the venue and the "alternative bran tub".  Did you realise that we had an excellent turn out of 42 ladies? 

Lynn Mitchell

The Ladies met on 14th January 2010 to hear Mr Michael Morrissey on the "Confessions of a Wayward Journalist".   Mr Morrissey began his working life on a newspaper in Crosby, Liverpool in 1948 right through to the Saltburn monthly magazine "Talk of the Town in 2002; not forgetting time spent working in Manchester, Australia, Nigeria, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Darlington, Redcar and Middlesbrough in between.   We heard about some of the highlights of his journalistic career as well as some of the less memorable ones.
Members meet for their Annual Luncheon on 28th January 2010 at the CIU Holiday and Convalescent Home.
We have a varied and interesting programme of meetings and visits planned for 2010 and would welcome new members to join us on 2nd Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm, at the Methodist Church, Milton Street, Saltburn.
See our website:www.saltburnwi.org.uk.

Barbara Spanner

Flowers galore...  and what stunning arrangements we all made.  Here's a photo of everyone's efforts

and here's Jean's demonstration for next month.  See you there!

Lynn Mitchell

The cookery course for MIND has started again.  On the menu today was a Sausagemeat Savoury with Dumplings followed by a Fruit Meringue.  The finished results looked brilliant.  Some of them couldn't wait for tea-time, they tucked in and ate their meal  even though it was only 11 o'clock.
That's what's known as "satisfying".  If you'd like to help, please do.  Check the diary for dates.

Lynn Mitchell

Happy new year to everyone.  
Our first meeting of the year was well attended considering the recent snow and ice we've just had.   December's walk was   a casualty of the snow and there are no plans for walking in January.   Don't worry, we'll be walking as soon as the weather improves.
Did you enjoy our Christmas event?   Mrs Fick was very interesting   with stories of her younger days during the war and whilst working at Bletchley Park.   She enjoyed our evening and we enjoyed listening to her, so we await a further instalment!   A few games, a sing-song and an excellent buffet made a lovely evening.  
Another casualty is the theatre trip to see Calendar Girls due to seating availability.
Our speaker tonight was Michael Morrisey, a retired journalist, who still keeps his hand in by writing for the Talk of the Town and Darlington & Stockton Times.   He told us about his life working on various newspapers, the people he'd worked with and those he'd interviewed.   He's had quite a busy life!

Lynn Mitchell

It was an excellent day for the Farmer's Market, weatherwise, and it brought out the shoppers.  A big thank you to all our bakers and helpers - our cakes and pies were flying off the the table as soon as they arrived and we had a very successful day.

Here's a photo of Pauline and Dot setting up the craft stall, with our shopping bags pegged out like washing!

Lynn Mitchell

When we were offered a trip to see Castle Howard dressed for Christmas we jumped at the chance - and we weren't disappointed.  Every room had a tree; in the Great Hall the enormous tree had between 1800-2000 baubles and was dressed by Mrs Howard over three days.  All the fires were lit making the house warm and cosy, and hundreds of candles everywhere gave it a fairytale feel. Making our way back to the car park on the little train we could see all the Christmas trees twinkling in the dark, what a lovely sight.
Another day to remember, thank you Pauline.

Lynn Mitchell

We were making Christmas table decorations today.  My choice was a lollipop arrangement, which will go down very well with all the family, although most ladies made a lovely arrangement with cyclamen, greenery and Christmasy bits and pieces.
Our lunch was topped off with some Bucks Fizz, thanks Elsie.  It certainly helped us during our afternoon session. Ikea had donated some fabric for us to turn into small shopping bags which we will sell on our stall at the Farmers' Market on Saturday.  We had quite a system going, cutting, pressing, and sewing bags.  Let's hope they sell as fast as our cakes!

Lynn Mitchell

Ann and Maureen, our very own radio stars, will be live on James Cook Hospital Radio on 19th December giving hints for Christmas.  Good luck!

The ladies WI meeting was held in the Methodist Chapel on November 12th.   The speaker was Dr Nicholson, who gave a fascinating talk entitled "More Secrets of the Attic".   This was the second time he had spoken to members about the subject which offered all the ingredients of mystery, love, betrayal of more than a century ago.   With the help of the internet he was able to piece together the lives of people whose letters and photographs that he found sealed in the attic of his Georgian house.   Amazing stuff!   We await the publication of his book.   Our president, Ann Cowie, laid a Remembrance Day wreath on behalf of the WI at Saltburn War Memorial on Sunday, 8th November.   Members also sent 35 care boxes to the British soldiers fighting in Afghanistan.   Members meet throughout the month for craft and flower arranging classes.   There is also the opportunity for ladies to go walking together around some of the local areas.   Local WI members meet to celebrate in Brotton for the annual Carol Service on 2nd December.   Check out our local website www.saltburnwi.org.uk and see what activities we offer.   New members most welcome.

B Spanner

We had a really busy and satisfying morning as part of our 'Let's Cook' project with 10 ladies from MIND.    There was a lovely smell of Leek and Potato soup cooking in the kitchen while we helped to make no-cook chocolate Christmas puddings.  The ladies enjoyed themselves making the marzipan fruits - they all had multi-coloured fingers when they'd finished!  They can't wait for the next lesson.

Helping Leah fill her flask with soup

Making marzipan fruits

Maureen's marzipan fruits - too good to eat

Mandy wanted chocolate topping on her pudding

Well, we've braved the elements again this month.  Five hardy ladies set off from Nunthorpe Station in high winds on a five mile circular walk taking in Grey Towers, Nunthorpe Village, quite a few stiles and a lot of mud.  There was plenty of time to chat and admire the views.
Come and walk with us - we'd love your company!

Lynn Mitchell

Firstly, a big thank you to everyone who filled a shoe box for the troops in Afghanistan; 35 were collected.  We'd like to to see Calendar Girls in Newcastle on 9th April 2010.  If you're interested, let us know as soon as possible.  Baking ingredients are available if you can do any baking for our Christmas stall at the Farmers Market on 12th December.  Can anyone spare an hour to man it please?

Dr Nicholson was welcomed back to give us the final chapter in his "Secrets of the Attic" - and what a chapter!  Twists and turns all the way to the end.  Up to now we'd all felt that Gus was a cad and a scrounger, especially as he had another woman in tow, but then we end up feeling sad for him.  He had lived a life which was full of lies but he kept us enthralled throughout.  Dr Nicholson has even managed to contact relatives of "that vile woman" through the "power of the internet" and is now in the process of writing a book on his research.

Lynn Mitchell

This month's walk from Saltburn to Skinningrove was changed to a beach walk because of all the heavy overnight rain.  Five of us set off from the Ship Inn along the beach to Redcar.  What a change in the weather from yeserday.  It was a glorious morning, the sun shone and there was hardly any wind.  There were lots of other walkers, making the most of the weather too.  Stopped for a cuppa at the Stray Cafe before aiming to get the bus back to Saltburn.  The bus had other thoughts and we missed it!  "Never mind girls, we'll carry on walking".  We finally caught a bus at Bydales School.  According to Nancy's pedometer we'd done over 13,000 steps, that's nearly six miles.  Well done, another good morning's walk.

Lynn Mitchell

We've all seen the outside of the building - and most of us hate it - but it does have everyone talking about it.   Which is exactly what the college wanted.   Last night we had a tour of the public areas of the college by Richard Peagem, one of the Assistant Principals, who has spent the last few years making sure the college got exactly what it wanted in terms of design and layout   - and he's very proud of the finished building.

Firstly, though, we had a wonderful three course meal in the Haven Restaurant prepared by the catering students.   The food was well cooked, really tasty and well presented.   The waiting staff had to be brought in from other departments because of our large party, but they still did their best to keep us all happy.

After our meal we were taken to the Library - not a Library as we are used to as most of the students work on-line now.   We walked past the catering kitchens; equipment is industrial so that students can get the feel of working in a real kitchen.   One range cooker from France cost £92,000!   A visit then to the Beauty Department - a six bed salon, all with private cubicles, and it even has a steam room, monsoon shower, jacuzzi and a deep flotation tank - sounds like another visit to me!  The college even boosts a 156 seat theatre.  The seats in the pit area can be removed and the stage can be extended so it's very adaptable.  We've asked to be included on the mailing list so we could be making a few trips to the college.

A very enjoyable and  informative.  Thanks to Pauline for her hard work in organising the night.

Lynn Mitchell

On Monday, 5th October Ann was invited by the Retired Men's Forum to talk at their meeting.  A light-hearted history of the WI, nationally and locally, and of our community involvement was well received - and Ann enjoyed herself too.  It was also good publicity for us.

Lynn Mitchell

Another excellent meeting and we also welcomed two visitors, hope they enjoyed tonight and decide to join us.
Ingredients will be provided if you would like to bake for our Christmas Market stall in December.  Help is also needed for the Pageant of Light and the Let's Cook project.  Check out the diary page.
This year we will be sending shoeboxes of goodies to the men and women of our armed forces serving in Afghanistan.  The contents list is endless so let's see is we can cheer them up at Christmas, all those miles away from home.  Maximum weight of 2kg in an unwrapped shoebox (elastic band to hold) please.
The list of outings, organised by Pauline, keeps growing; check the diary page for more details. 
Crafts, flower arranging and walking groups have room if you want to join in, please do!

The speaker tonight was Angela Rhoades, who designs her own pearl jewellery range.  Her talk included the history of pearls, she told us about the oyster beds in China from where she buys her pearls, and described the differences between cultured, freshwater and seawater pearls.  We were told how to look after our pearls - they need to be hydrated so wear them, girls, don't lock them away; be careful with your perfume  - it's not good for them; wipe them with a clean handkerchief after wearing.  Angela brought some of her lovely jewellery to show us (and to sell) and, if anyone is interested, she also holds workshops.

Lynn Mitchell

We invited the Mayor to present the trophies at our Craft and Produce Show, he reciprocated by inviting us to his parlour on Monday, 21st September.   The Show Committee and Stewards from the WI and the Allotment Association were first shown into the Council Chamber in the Town Hall at Eston where the Mayor and Mayoress joined us.   We were given a very  interesting talk by John McCardle, the Mace Bearer (chaffeur and other jobs) on what happens in the Chamber as well as on general council protocol.   Time for a quick photo before moving into the Mayor's Parlour for a lovely buffet supper and another interesting talk describing the mayor's robes, silverware, photos and plaques that adorn the room. John has been in his role for 33 years so he is full of information.   All in all, a very enlightening evening!

Lynn Mitchell

Well, ladies, we're off.  Five members stepped it out on the first of our monthly walks.
The weather was kind to us as we strolled through Errington woods and Upleatham village taking in the scenery.  We covered about three and a half miles in two hours; an easy and pleasant walk.
There will be another one next month (details to follow) - come and join us! 

Lynn Mitchell

There was no speaker tonight as September is usually a busy month for business.  We had hoped for a few visitors following the interest at the Craft & Produce Show but, unfortunately, there were none.  The pooled supper table heaved with the weight of the food, so we didn't go hungry!  Thank you for sharing.

Lynn Mitchell

Wednesday, 16th September will see the start of our monthly walks - just short, gentle walks to encourage us to enjoy some fresh air and a little bit of exercise, nothing too strenuous.  So, get your boots and waterproofs dusted off and come and join us.  Meet 10 am at Errington Woods car park, New Marske for a circular walk taking in Upleatham.  Bring your picnic and we'll stop en route.

Lynn Mitchell

Fascinators was today's craft.  We were shown how to make an easy fascinator with the minimum of materials, fuss and time.  They are that simple to make that there's no excuse for not making one to match any outfits that require us "dressing up". 

There was plenty of time to chat and eat - it's just a shame not more of our members didn't join us.  We intend to change to a Monday from next month, maybe this will be a better day.  Let's hope so!

Lynn Mitchell

Once again we had a very busy day.  Entries were down due to mis-information given out that the Show had been cancelled.

The Recycling Section did very well.  We had 17 scarecrows.  To me, everyone was a winner.  Congratulations to those who did win.

     Gwendoline, the WI`s winning scarecrow entry

The Home Baking, Preserves and Handicrafts were very well supported.  Once again, congratulations to those people.  The Produce, Cut Flowers and Floral Sections were very thin on the ground.  All you gardeners out there, I know you can do better than that.  Please put some entries in next year's show.

Saltburn WI and Allotment Committee

What an excellent day.  Pauline really excelled herself with this trip - even the weather was on it's best behaviour. 

It was an early start but, as we found out, we were booked into Wensleydale Creamery at 10.00 am for a demonstration and tour.  Andrew, the demonstrator, was very funny and showed us how to make a pound of cheese from a gallon of milk in ten minutes.  You can't eat this - for demonstration purposes there's too much salt in it - but at least we know how to make our own now!  Lots of samples to taste and then buy your favourite.

Back onto the coach and off we go.  Our next stop was Kendal where there was plenty of time to shop and have lunch, look at the floral displays and compare them with Saltburn. 

Off we go again - this time to Brockhole Visitor Centre at Winderemere.  Plenty of space, pretty gardens, exhibitions, tea rooms - something to suit everyone.  If you cared to there was a zip wire and a climbing wall, but I didn't see anyone from our coach having a go!  Windermere Air Show added extra enjoyment to the afternoon.

We've all enjoyed a marvellous day on a 55 seater coach that seemed too big for our country roads.  Thank you Pauline, where are we going next year?

The title of tonight's talk was "Louis XIV of France suffered from premature baldness, as a consequence I wear a wig" and the speaker was Judge Spittle. 

He gave us a very interesting, informative and humorous insight as to the background of the legal profession's attire from Charles II upto the present day.  We were shown three different types of wigs - one for ceremonials, one for everyday wear, and one for a barrister - all made of horse hair (from the mane) and all very expensive and very itchy!  Did you know that a powdered wig tax of 20 guineas was imposed in 1790 which led to the decline of wig-wearing, except for the legal profession, the clergy, doctors and coachmen? 

He told us about the ceremonial clothes he'll be wearing at Durham Cathedral this weeked - silk stockings (tights), he said, how do you ladies wear them?; the robes for everyday and normal suits in family courts for an informal atmosphere where children are present.

An excellent evening - let's hope we never have to go up before him!

L Mitchell

We had another enjoyable craft day at the Holiday Home.   The morning was spent making pop-up cards and envelopes - ideal for all occasions.   After our pooled lunch we had a relaxing afternoon learning the technique of hand massage.   Members had the opportunity of practicing on each other and we all went home less stressed than we arrived!

Our ladies WI met at the Methodist Chapel on Thursday, June 11th.   Our speaker was Mrs Susan Ord, who as a handwriting specialist or graphologer.   She didin't read our handwriting as such, which was just as well as my handwriting leaves a lot to be desired.   (I was afraid she might say I had criminal tendencies!) but she did give a very interesting talk.   We did a bit of tree planting on 10th June in the wildlife garden at the end of the allotments, part of an action campaign sponsored by Morisson's.   I was a little bit early on the day so I sat in the garden and waited and I must admit it was very tranquil with only the sounds of the birds and the bees and the occasional Boulby freight train.   Seriously, it was very pleasant and the garden gives an opportunity for a nice little break if you are out walking between Saltburn and Marske.  

E Leonard (for the Talk of the Town)

We met in the Methodist Chapel on Thursday, June 11th. Our speaker was Mrs Susan Ord, who was a handwriting specialist or graphologer. She didn't read our handwriting as such, which was just as well as my handwriting leaves a lot to be desired, (I was afraid she might say I had criminal tendencies!) but she did give a very interesting talk.

We did a bit of tree planting on June 10th in the wildlife garden at the end of the allotments, part of an action campaign sponsored by Morrisons. I was a little bit early on the day so I sat in the garden and waited, and I must admit it was very tranquil with only the sounds of the birds and bees and the occasional Boulby freight train. Seriously, it was very pleasant and the garden gives the opportunity for a nice little break if you are out walking between Saltburn and Marske.

E Leonard

The Saltburn ladies WI meeting was held on Thursday, 14th May. It was our resolution meeting, which means WIs, countrywide, take up a cause. This year it will be the humble bee, as so much depends on it. We had a small talk about it and later this was followed by a pie and pea supper.
Our cookery course for Mind went down so well, and everyone was appreciative, that we are looking for our next venue.
There will be another coffee morning and cake stall in Saltburn Library on Saturday 6th June.
Our schedules are now out for our Craft and Produce Day on Saturday, August 22nd and can be obtained from the library and various shops. So come on all you gardeners, get digging and planting knowing that you are helping the bee as well, because, as you know, petrol in your car makes your car go, so a little bee in your garden makes your flowers grow.

E Leonard