Archive 2015
The Lost Children of Papplewick
Stephen Walker came to talk to the Tuesday group about his research into the cotton mills of the Leen Valley, and the people who lived and worked there. It has long been rumoured that for the apprentice boys in particular it was a very harsh life and that many young children were buried in unmarked graves in Linby churchyard. Stephen's research has shown that this is almost certainly not the case, and he produced documents and testimonies that he has discovered during his research.
This is the second of his two talks to the Tuesday group, but he will be repeating both at the Thursday evening meetings in February and later in the year.
January 2015
This is the second of his two talks to the Tuesday group, but he will be repeating both at the Thursday evening meetings in February and later in the year.
January 2015
Tai Chi with Joy Parsons, 2 Sessions
Lift your arms, bend your knees, breathe in a controlled fashion - I never knew that I was so unco-ordinated! The ancient Chinese exercise programme had come to Lapwings WI!
Joy told us how she had come to be so involved with Tai Chi after serious illness, and something of the theory and health benefits behind the movements.
Then it was time for everyone to have a go. It was a very peaceful atmospher as everyone concentrated hard on the simple, theraputic exercises demonstrated by Joy.
Finally Joy demonstrated a 'form' a series fo choreographed more advanced movements.
January / February 2015
Joy told us how she had come to be so involved with Tai Chi after serious illness, and something of the theory and health benefits behind the movements.
Then it was time for everyone to have a go. It was a very peaceful atmospher as everyone concentrated hard on the simple, theraputic exercises demonstrated by Joy.
Finally Joy demonstrated a 'form' a series fo choreographed more advanced movements.
January / February 2015
Knit and Natter
The first meeting of the Knit and Natter Group took place on Tuesday 24th February at The Griffins Head, Papplewick, when 11 members gathered round a table to do much more nattering than knitting!
The Griffin made us very welcome, giving us exclusive use of a room, and providing bar and coffee facilities.
We decided that we would meet twice a month - on the first and third Tuesday evenings of each month, so that it would be mainly on weeks when a main WI meeting was not scheduled.
We have quite a bit of 'in-house' expertise, but decided that it would be useful if we could ask someone to come and give us a basic introduction to crochet, and Janet is going to look into this. Watch this space!
Future dates for this group are on Tuesdays April 21st, May 5th, May 19th, June 2nd, June 16th, July 7th, July 21st. All meetings are at 7.30pm at The Griffins Head, Papplewick.
Come and join us to learn, continue or help others to knit and crochet, or even just for a natter!
February 2015
The Griffin made us very welcome, giving us exclusive use of a room, and providing bar and coffee facilities.
We decided that we would meet twice a month - on the first and third Tuesday evenings of each month, so that it would be mainly on weeks when a main WI meeting was not scheduled.
We have quite a bit of 'in-house' expertise, but decided that it would be useful if we could ask someone to come and give us a basic introduction to crochet, and Janet is going to look into this. Watch this space!
Future dates for this group are on Tuesdays April 21st, May 5th, May 19th, June 2nd, June 16th, July 7th, July 21st. All meetings are at 7.30pm at The Griffins Head, Papplewick.
Come and join us to learn, continue or help others to knit and crochet, or even just for a natter!
February 2015
The Mills of Papplewick
Did you know that Papplewick and the Leen Valley was once at the cutting edge of the cotton spinning industry, and that one of the first Boulton and Watt steam beam engines was installed in the village? Stephen Walker told a fascinated Thursday evening group about the local industrial heritage.
He spoke of Mr George Robinson who came to the area from Banff in Scotland originally as a bleacher and who then began a cotton spinning mill in the 1770s using the water power of the Leen Valley. Papplewick rapidly grew from a small agricultural village to an industrial centre with over 2000 inhabitants. However technology caused the water powered mills to become uneconomical, the industry declined and then disappeared by 1828.
All that now remains is the system of leats, sluices and ponds which held and transferred the water to power the waterwheels. A local group, The Friends of Moor Pond Woods, is now working on this archaeology and Stephen brought interesting photos of the work taking place.
Stephen will return in November with a second talk, called The Lost Children of Papplewick, about the people who worked in these mills.
February 2015
He spoke of Mr George Robinson who came to the area from Banff in Scotland originally as a bleacher and who then began a cotton spinning mill in the 1770s using the water power of the Leen Valley. Papplewick rapidly grew from a small agricultural village to an industrial centre with over 2000 inhabitants. However technology caused the water powered mills to become uneconomical, the industry declined and then disappeared by 1828.
All that now remains is the system of leats, sluices and ponds which held and transferred the water to power the waterwheels. A local group, The Friends of Moor Pond Woods, is now working on this archaeology and Stephen brought interesting photos of the work taking place.
Stephen will return in November with a second talk, called The Lost Children of Papplewick, about the people who worked in these mills.
February 2015
Knit and Natter
Our second Knit and Natter evening was held on Tuesday 3rd March when Mandy Moore came to teach a group of us to crochet. Ten people gathered around the table with Mandy giving everyone time to start to learn this new craft. She will return in a fortnight, on March 17th, to continue with the lessons.
March 2015
March 2015
Crafts
For our craft morning we had 4 choices. Marion Day showed some members how to make a small sample of felt, Kath Howard helped others to make an egg decorated with fabric and ribbons, Heather Walker had a group making small gift pods and Janet Stevenson led more members in beginning to craft a patchwork banner.
A second craft session was run for the Thursday evening group. All crafts were the same, and run by the same members. On this occasion there were more members present, but everyone enjoyed learning a new craft technique and produced an item to take home.
March 2015
A second craft session was run for the Thursday evening group. All crafts were the same, and run by the same members. On this occasion there were more members present, but everyone enjoyed learning a new craft technique and produced an item to take home.
March 2015
Hucknall Spring Craft and Food Fair
Luckily we had good weather when this was held on Friday 27th March on Hucknall Market Place. We decided to take a stall both to sell crafts and cakes made by our members, and also to use it as a publicity event for our WI. Debbi and Jo were there all day, with many other members helping out for a couple of hours, or just popping in for a chat.
We made around £125 for our WI, and had quite a number of people show interest in who we were and what we were doing.
March 2015
We made around £125 for our WI, and had quite a number of people show interest in who we were and what we were doing.
March 2015
Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance
Karen Carter was the guest speaker at our Tuesday morning meeting, on behalf of the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance. She gave us an insight into the fundraising needed to keep this vital lifeline in operation, and the type of work that the air ambulance does.
Based at RAF Waddington, the helicopter can travel at 154mph, and covers 3000 square miles, 365 days a year and can be at any point in either county within 17 minutes. The helicopter is called out 3 or 4 times every day to attend road traffic accidents, agricultural injuries, sports or horse riding injuries and many other types of accident, particularly those taking part in locations which a land-based ambulance would struggle to reach.
The service costs £2 million to run each year, and, as no Lottery funding is available, this all has to be raised by public donation. This can be through their own charity shops, collection boxes, community events or their own lottery.
Members asked Karen many questions and supported the Air Ambulance by buying small items from their stall.
April 2015
Based at RAF Waddington, the helicopter can travel at 154mph, and covers 3000 square miles, 365 days a year and can be at any point in either county within 17 minutes. The helicopter is called out 3 or 4 times every day to attend road traffic accidents, agricultural injuries, sports or horse riding injuries and many other types of accident, particularly those taking part in locations which a land-based ambulance would struggle to reach.
The service costs £2 million to run each year, and, as no Lottery funding is available, this all has to be raised by public donation. This can be through their own charity shops, collection boxes, community events or their own lottery.
Members asked Karen many questions and supported the Air Ambulance by buying small items from their stall.
April 2015
Cheese Evening - with Wine!
On St George's Day it seemed appropriate to spend the evening celebrating English cheeses - with a glass of wine.
Webb Freckingham from The Cheese Shop on Flying Horse Walk in Nottingham both entertained and educated us about a small selection of English cheeses, and then produced several recipes, some of which, Colwick and Stilton, were very local. After the demonstration we had the opportunity to sample the delicious dishes as well as the cheeses from which they had been made.
Webb gave us the recipes for the dishes that he had made, and they can be found on our recipe page.
April 2015
Webb Freckingham from The Cheese Shop on Flying Horse Walk in Nottingham both entertained and educated us about a small selection of English cheeses, and then produced several recipes, some of which, Colwick and Stilton, were very local. After the demonstration we had the opportunity to sample the delicious dishes as well as the cheeses from which they had been made.
Webb gave us the recipes for the dishes that he had made, and they can be found on our recipe page.
April 2015
Linby and Papplewick VE Day Celebrations
Members were involved with the VE Celebrations held at Papplewick Village Hall on May 10th. Members made a selection of cakes to sell, and also made tea a nd coffee, raising £130 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
May 2015
May 2015
Resolution Meetings
Both the Tuesday and Thursday meetings had the opportunity to discuss this year's WI resolution calling on the government to remove the distinction between nursing and personal care when assessing the needs of individuals. Wi Advisor, Helen Rose presented information on the resolution at the Tuesday morning meeting, and Kay Brown presented the information at the Thursday evening meeting. After an interesting discussion votes were cast at both meetings, and the result was taken forward to the Wi Annual Meeting held at the Albert Hall in London.
Following this, both meetings thoroughly enjoyed a Beetle Drive which gave rise to a great deal of laughter and competitiveness. The winners were Stef Roberts and Liz Butler, each receiving a bottle of wine.
May 2015
Following this, both meetings thoroughly enjoyed a Beetle Drive which gave rise to a great deal of laughter and competitiveness. The winners were Stef Roberts and Liz Butler, each receiving a bottle of wine.
May 2015
The WI Buckingham Palace Garden Party
Two of our members, Michelle Horton and Rachel Marshall, were fortunate enough to be able to attend the WI Centenary Garden Party held in the grounds of Buckingham Palace on Tuesday 2nd June. They enjoyed a fabulous, although windy, afternoon in the presence of the Duchess of Cornwall, Countess of Wessex, Duchess of Gloucester and Princess Alexandra.
Michelle and Rachel were introduced to the Duchess of Gloucester, and spent several minutes talking about our branch and its activities. The Duchess was very interested to know that Michelle had made the hat that she was wearing.
After a dainty tea (the chefs had been a little nervous at creating food for the WI!) they strolled around the immaculate gardens, and also had the opportunity to meet the real 'Calendar Girls' from Rylstone and District WI. It had been an amazing, but tiring day for both ladies.
There are more photos of the day in our Gallery.
June 2015
Michelle and Rachel were introduced to the Duchess of Gloucester, and spent several minutes talking about our branch and its activities. The Duchess was very interested to know that Michelle had made the hat that she was wearing.
After a dainty tea (the chefs had been a little nervous at creating food for the WI!) they strolled around the immaculate gardens, and also had the opportunity to meet the real 'Calendar Girls' from Rylstone and District WI. It had been an amazing, but tiring day for both ladies.
There are more photos of the day in our Gallery.
June 2015
Our First First Birthday Party
The first of our two birthday meetings was held on Tuesday 9th June. It began with the formalities of annual reports from the Treasurer and Secretary (I'm not going to spoil Janet's report - if you want to hear it in person then come to the next Thursday evening meeting!) This was followed by an opportunity to nominate a committee member as next year's President.
We then had a fascinating presentation by members of the Specsavers team in Hucknall, led by Janet Archer. It was interesting to learn of the way that sight can change over the years and what to look out for as your sight deteriorates. This was followed by a second presentation on hearing, including some rather gruesome photos of things that have been removed from the ear canal! Hearing tests are free with the NHS, and I can see that Specsavers will have some new customers in the future. Both talks invoked insightful questions from the members, and these were answered with clear information from the team.
Rachel spoke briefly about her fantastic opportunity to go to the garden party at Buckingham Palace for 8,000 members of the WI, and the people that she had met, including the Duchess of Gloucester and the real Calendar Girls. She had brought along photos of the day, too.
Finally we all enjoyed a cream scone with our cup of tea to celebrate our first year of being a WI.
June 2015
We then had a fascinating presentation by members of the Specsavers team in Hucknall, led by Janet Archer. It was interesting to learn of the way that sight can change over the years and what to look out for as your sight deteriorates. This was followed by a second presentation on hearing, including some rather gruesome photos of things that have been removed from the ear canal! Hearing tests are free with the NHS, and I can see that Specsavers will have some new customers in the future. Both talks invoked insightful questions from the members, and these were answered with clear information from the team.
Rachel spoke briefly about her fantastic opportunity to go to the garden party at Buckingham Palace for 8,000 members of the WI, and the people that she had met, including the Duchess of Gloucester and the real Calendar Girls. She had brought along photos of the day, too.
Finally we all enjoyed a cream scone with our cup of tea to celebrate our first year of being a WI.
June 2015
Our Second First Birthday Party
Our official first birthday meeting was held on the evening of Thursday 25th June. It began with the formalities of the AGM, with annual reports from President, Secretary and Treasurer. Debbi Perkins was once again elected to be our President. All other committee members have agreed to continue in their roles.
Our banner was revealed to the members (see above). It represents many of the activities that we have been involved with during the past year, as well as images of the local area. Individual squares were crafted by members, and the whole piece was put together by Hazel Flint, adding a bit of bling around the letters, as instructed by Debbi!
The highlight of the evening was a visit by members of the Ashfield School Choir (a very big surprise for Jane, whose son is a member, and hadn't said a word!) The choir sang a varied programme which was thoroughly enjoyed by all, especially a moving version of 'Bring Him Home' from Les Miserables. The highlight of the performance was when the choir led us in singing Jerusalem.
Finally we tucked into a vast array of food which had been provided by the members, bringing our first year to a fitting end.
June 2015
Our banner was revealed to the members (see above). It represents many of the activities that we have been involved with during the past year, as well as images of the local area. Individual squares were crafted by members, and the whole piece was put together by Hazel Flint, adding a bit of bling around the letters, as instructed by Debbi!
The highlight of the evening was a visit by members of the Ashfield School Choir (a very big surprise for Jane, whose son is a member, and hadn't said a word!) The choir sang a varied programme which was thoroughly enjoyed by all, especially a moving version of 'Bring Him Home' from Les Miserables. The highlight of the performance was when the choir led us in singing Jerusalem.
Finally we tucked into a vast array of food which had been provided by the members, bringing our first year to a fitting end.
June 2015
St Anns Allotments
Mo Cooper came to talk to us about the historical St Anns Allotments in the heart of Nottingham.
This area has been used by people for more than 600 years. By the 1840s the site was established as ‘pleasure gardens’ to provide space and an opportunity for those who lived in the city to grow their own food and to escape the confines of urban life. Although the size has changed slightly over time, the gardens are still in their original 1830s layout. They are a rare survivor of a type of hedged gardens, once common in the 19th century, found just outside the centre of industrial towns. Some plots still contain Victorian buildings, such as summerhouses and glasshouses. Their unique history and heritage has been recognised and it is a Grade 2* listed site. It is also now a haven for wildlife.
There will be another opportunity to find out about this area at the Thursday evening meeting in September, and a possibility of a visit to the area at a later date.
July 2015
This area has been used by people for more than 600 years. By the 1840s the site was established as ‘pleasure gardens’ to provide space and an opportunity for those who lived in the city to grow their own food and to escape the confines of urban life. Although the size has changed slightly over time, the gardens are still in their original 1830s layout. They are a rare survivor of a type of hedged gardens, once common in the 19th century, found just outside the centre of industrial towns. Some plots still contain Victorian buildings, such as summerhouses and glasshouses. Their unique history and heritage has been recognised and it is a Grade 2* listed site. It is also now a haven for wildlife.
There will be another opportunity to find out about this area at the Thursday evening meeting in September, and a possibility of a visit to the area at a later date.
July 2015
Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance
Karen Carter was again the guest speaker at our meeting, on behalf of the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance. She gave us an insight into the fund-raising needed to keep this vital lifeline in operation, and the type of work that the air ambulance does.
Based at RAF Waddington, the helicopter can travel at 154mph, and covers 3,000 square miles, 365 days a year and can be at any point in either county within 17 minutes. The helicopter is called out 3 or 4 times every day to attend road traffic accidents, agricultural injuries, sports or horse riding injuries and many other types of accident, particularly those happening in locations at which a land-based ambulance would struggle to reach.
The service costs £2 million to run each year, and, as no Lottery funding is available, this all has to be raised by public donation. This can be through their own charity shops, collection boxes, community events or their own lottery.
Members asked Karen many questions and supported the Air Ambulance by buying small items from their stall.
July 2015
Based at RAF Waddington, the helicopter can travel at 154mph, and covers 3,000 square miles, 365 days a year and can be at any point in either county within 17 minutes. The helicopter is called out 3 or 4 times every day to attend road traffic accidents, agricultural injuries, sports or horse riding injuries and many other types of accident, particularly those happening in locations at which a land-based ambulance would struggle to reach.
The service costs £2 million to run each year, and, as no Lottery funding is available, this all has to be raised by public donation. This can be through their own charity shops, collection boxes, community events or their own lottery.
Members asked Karen many questions and supported the Air Ambulance by buying small items from their stall.
July 2015
Too-Wet-For-Cricket Day at Papplewick
Four intrepid ladies, Barbara, Janet, Jo and Kathy, ran our stall at the Papplewick Cricket Club 'Fun' Day. Unfortunately the weather was not fun, with rain all afternoon. Not a stroke of cricket was played.
However, they managed to sell lots of cakes, vegetables and rhubarb, and made a healthy profit for Lapwings of £104.10. They looked very smart in our brand new Lapwings aprons.
Well done everyone!
July 2015
However, they managed to sell lots of cakes, vegetables and rhubarb, and made a healthy profit for Lapwings of £104.10. They looked very smart in our brand new Lapwings aprons.
Well done everyone!
July 2015
Bakewell Pudding Outing (Tuesday)
For our August outing we visited Bakewell. The Tuesday morning group met at the Olde Bakewell Pudding Shop at 10.30 ready for our lesson on the art of making a Bakewell Pudding. Luke told us how the recipe was invented, sold on to a local lady and how the shop was transformed from a candle makers to the famous building which stands there today.
Then it was our turn to try making a pudding. Having placed a pastry disc in the foil case we piped in jam and dolloped in the filling. All the puddings were placed in a named square and taken to be baked. Meanwhile we had a well deserved cup of coffee, and it seemed as if the puddings were ready in no time at all. WI judging took place, and Deborah Whitley was awarded the title of Pudding-Maker-In-Chief!
Most members opted to stay on in Bakewell for lunch and a look around the town.
August 2015
Then it was our turn to try making a pudding. Having placed a pastry disc in the foil case we piped in jam and dolloped in the filling. All the puddings were placed in a named square and taken to be baked. Meanwhile we had a well deserved cup of coffee, and it seemed as if the puddings were ready in no time at all. WI judging took place, and Deborah Whitley was awarded the title of Pudding-Maker-In-Chief!
Most members opted to stay on in Bakewell for lunch and a look around the town.
August 2015
Bakewell Pudding Outing (Thursday)
A second visit to the Olde Bakewell Pudding Shop was arranged for the Thursday group (some people managed to go on both outings). Once again Luke was our host and we were again fascinated by his tales of the history of the pudding. Everyone again made their own pudding.
After all our hard work we were ready for a delicious meal whilst the puddlings were cooking. Again the puddings were carefully scrutinised to find the best Although Debbi sneaked in her own pot of edible glitter, it still was not enough to win her the crown! That honour went to Sharon Coleman. It had been another lovely evening out.
August 2015
After all our hard work we were ready for a delicious meal whilst the puddlings were cooking. Again the puddings were carefully scrutinised to find the best Although Debbi sneaked in her own pot of edible glitter, it still was not enough to win her the crown! That honour went to Sharon Coleman. It had been another lovely evening out.
August 2015
Here's One I Made Earlier
What a wealth of talent we have in our WI. This morning was devoted to the talents of our members when everyone brought in something that they had made. There were beautiful crocheted blankets, a knitted cushion, cross stitich pictures, this fabric wreath, a lampshade, an embroidered christening dress and one of Janet's cakes. We have an artist, a cardmaker, a poetess and a published author. Such incredibly talented women.
To find out more about our members we played the 'Sit Down If...' game to find out hidden secrets of our ladies. I'm not going to say who has owns more than 30 pairs of shoes, has the autograph of someone famous, has ridden a horse or has a tattoo...!
August 2015
To find out more about our members we played the 'Sit Down If...' game to find out hidden secrets of our ladies. I'm not going to say who has owns more than 30 pairs of shoes, has the autograph of someone famous, has ridden a horse or has a tattoo...!
August 2015
Sunflower Competition
Earlier in the year every member was given 5 sunflower seeds to grow and cherish to see if they had green fingers. Some seeds didn't grow, some plants were damaged by wildlife, and some people had problems with watering, particularly when they were on holiday. Now it was time to measure the results. Most people brought in a photo of the sunflower being measured as proof, but Claire brought in the whole sunflower!
The Tuesday winners were declared as:
The tallest sunflower: 8' 11" grown by Yvonne Raynor
The largest flower head: 12" grown by Kath Howard
The Thursday winners were:
The tallest sunflower: Sheila Hammond, Janet Stevenson - joint winners
The largest flower head: Sue Arnold, Maggie Huckerby - joint winners.
September 2015
The Tuesday winners were declared as:
The tallest sunflower: 8' 11" grown by Yvonne Raynor
The largest flower head: 12" grown by Kath Howard
The Thursday winners were:
The tallest sunflower: Sheila Hammond, Janet Stevenson - joint winners
The largest flower head: Sue Arnold, Maggie Huckerby - joint winners.
September 2015
One Hundred Years of the WI
It was a gorgeous September evening when the members met at Beauvale Priory to celebrate 100 years of the WI. All were wearing hats, in honour of the ladies who had gone before.
First we were given a tour and brief history of the ruins by owner (and Lapwings member) Ann Whyte. It was fascinating to see what progress had been made by the family, turning a virtually derelict site into a family home and business. None of the Carthusian monks put in an appearance, though! (Beauvale Priory has its own website for those who wish to find out more.)
As dusk fell, we retired to the tea room and were served with beautiful cake stands containing a delicious, plentiful afternoon tea, with china cups and saucers for our many cups of tea.
This was followed by Ann's lively talk entitiled From Punk to Priory, telling the story of her life and how she eventually became the owner of 90 acres of sheer heaven. To illustrate this she had brought some of her vintage clothing for us to try on - although no one was brave enough to try on the chain mail bikini!
As with all good parties we left with a slice of cake wrapped in a serviette.
Thank you, Ann, for hosting this very special celebration.
September 2015
First we were given a tour and brief history of the ruins by owner (and Lapwings member) Ann Whyte. It was fascinating to see what progress had been made by the family, turning a virtually derelict site into a family home and business. None of the Carthusian monks put in an appearance, though! (Beauvale Priory has its own website for those who wish to find out more.)
As dusk fell, we retired to the tea room and were served with beautiful cake stands containing a delicious, plentiful afternoon tea, with china cups and saucers for our many cups of tea.
This was followed by Ann's lively talk entitiled From Punk to Priory, telling the story of her life and how she eventually became the owner of 90 acres of sheer heaven. To illustrate this she had brought some of her vintage clothing for us to try on - although no one was brave enough to try on the chain mail bikini!
As with all good parties we left with a slice of cake wrapped in a serviette.
Thank you, Ann, for hosting this very special celebration.
September 2015
St Anns Allotments
This was a second opportunity for those who were not able to come to the Tuesday morning meeting in July to hear Mo Cooper talk to us about the historical St Anns Allotments in Nottingham.
This area has been used by people for more than 600 years. By the 1840s the site was established as ‘pleasure gardens’ to provide space and an opportunity for those who lived in the city to grow their own food and to escape the confines of urban life. Although the size has changed slightly over time, the gardens are still in their original 1830s layout. They are a rare survivor of a type of hedged gardens, once common in the 19th century, found just outside the centre of industrial towns. Some plots still contain Victorian buildings, such as summerhouses and glasshouses. Their unique history and heritage has been recognised and it is a Grade 2* listed site. It is also now a haven for wildlife.
We hope to have a trip to the allotments on one of the open days next year.
September 2015
This area has been used by people for more than 600 years. By the 1840s the site was established as ‘pleasure gardens’ to provide space and an opportunity for those who lived in the city to grow their own food and to escape the confines of urban life. Although the size has changed slightly over time, the gardens are still in their original 1830s layout. They are a rare survivor of a type of hedged gardens, once common in the 19th century, found just outside the centre of industrial towns. Some plots still contain Victorian buildings, such as summerhouses and glasshouses. Their unique history and heritage has been recognised and it is a Grade 2* listed site. It is also now a haven for wildlife.
We hope to have a trip to the allotments on one of the open days next year.
September 2015
Family Heirlooms, and a Biscuit Competition
Unfortunately our speaker was unable to be with us, due to family illness. So a last minute change gave us the opportunity to show a few of our family heirlooms, and hear the stories behind them.
We still had the opportunity to enter the biscuit competition, and of course to sample the entries before voting for our favourite.
The winner was Kath Howard with her Lemon Melting Moments. The recipe can be found on our recipe pages.
October 2015
We still had the opportunity to enter the biscuit competition, and of course to sample the entries before voting for our favourite.
The winner was Kath Howard with her Lemon Melting Moments. The recipe can be found on our recipe pages.
October 2015
Inexpensive Food Gifts
Liana Stevens of Sweet Success in Radford (opposite the Radford Road tram stop) came to share some of her recipes for food gifts
First she showed us how to make a moustache on a stick using the Candy Melts product, and a drinking straw - very topical for Movember. Next it was how to make easy fudge using the Sugar and Crumbs Icing Sugar, boiled together with butter and condensed milk. Liana's 3rd Item was how to make cookies in a jar, layering the different ingredients in a Kilner jar and giving them with a recipe. The one that she produced (with the assistance of Hazel Flint) was for chocolate chip cookies.
Liana showed us how to make our own vanilla extract using nothing more than clear alcohol (vodka was her choice) and vanilla pods. Her most surprising tip was to make your own brown sugar using 200g caster sugar and 1 tablespoon treacle!
Liana had produced a plaque of flower paste for each member to decorate using edible pens and take home.
This was a very enjoyable evening, with everyone taking home some recipe cards, and their own finished plaque.
October 2015
First she showed us how to make a moustache on a stick using the Candy Melts product, and a drinking straw - very topical for Movember. Next it was how to make easy fudge using the Sugar and Crumbs Icing Sugar, boiled together with butter and condensed milk. Liana's 3rd Item was how to make cookies in a jar, layering the different ingredients in a Kilner jar and giving them with a recipe. The one that she produced (with the assistance of Hazel Flint) was for chocolate chip cookies.
Liana showed us how to make our own vanilla extract using nothing more than clear alcohol (vodka was her choice) and vanilla pods. Her most surprising tip was to make your own brown sugar using 200g caster sugar and 1 tablespoon treacle!
Liana had produced a plaque of flower paste for each member to decorate using edible pens and take home.
This was a very enjoyable evening, with everyone taking home some recipe cards, and their own finished plaque.
October 2015
Twiddlemuffs and Rugs
The Knit and Natter group, along with a number of other members, have been producing Twiddle Muffs and Rugs for dementia patients. These are knitted, crocheted or sewn muffs or blankets onto which are sewn securely a number of different tactile objects which a patient can 'twiddle' with.
Joe Alexander, a mental health nurse, was delighted to come to our meeting to accept the 14 muffs and 6 rugs that have been produced so far. He told us that these have been shown to have a calming effect on the patients, and said that each twiddle muff would be matched to the needs of a different patient.
This project is ongoing, and more items are always wanted.
November 2015
Joe Alexander, a mental health nurse, was delighted to come to our meeting to accept the 14 muffs and 6 rugs that have been produced so far. He told us that these have been shown to have a calming effect on the patients, and said that each twiddle muff would be matched to the needs of a different patient.
This project is ongoing, and more items are always wanted.
November 2015
The Magic of Stained Glass
Rosemary Pike came to our meeting to tell us of her fascinating career in the making of stained glass.
She took us through the history of glass making from its discovery in the eastern Mediterranean, and even showed us examples of the naturally occurring volcanic glass, obsidian. Rosemary went on to show us pictures of the beautiful stained glass church windows created in medieval times.
Bringing the craft up to date Rosemary spoke about how they were actually made, and showing examples of the leaded and foiled pieces of glass. Finally she showed us examples of her own commissions, from the paper pattern or cartoon, to the finished article.
We had the opportunity to buy some small but beautiful samples of Rosemary's work, which would make ideal presents for Christmas - if we could bear to part with them!
November 2015
She took us through the history of glass making from its discovery in the eastern Mediterranean, and even showed us examples of the naturally occurring volcanic glass, obsidian. Rosemary went on to show us pictures of the beautiful stained glass church windows created in medieval times.
Bringing the craft up to date Rosemary spoke about how they were actually made, and showing examples of the leaded and foiled pieces of glass. Finally she showed us examples of her own commissions, from the paper pattern or cartoon, to the finished article.
We had the opportunity to buy some small but beautiful samples of Rosemary's work, which would make ideal presents for Christmas - if we could bear to part with them!
November 2015
Hair For the Party Season
We were fortunate to welcome the staff of Arena Hair in Hucknall who gave up their evening to demonstrate ways of 'glamming up' our crowning glory for the coming Christmas festivities.
First we were told about hair, and the correct way to care for it. How best to wash, comb and condition, and how best to use any styling products. This was followed by demonstrations of how individual members could change their hairstyles. Finally it was possible for a number of members to have a personalised discussion with the stylists about any of their own hair care problems.
We went home thinking of lots of possibilities for the forthcoming party season.
November 2015
First we were told about hair, and the correct way to care for it. How best to wash, comb and condition, and how best to use any styling products. This was followed by demonstrations of how individual members could change their hairstyles. Finally it was possible for a number of members to have a personalised discussion with the stylists about any of their own hair care problems.
We went home thinking of lots of possibilities for the forthcoming party season.
November 2015
Hucknall Christmas Tree Festival
Once again we entered a tree for the Hucknall Christmas Tree Festival. This year our theme was 'Lapwings feeds the birds'. Many of our members had spent time knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidering and making origami birds. There were bird food shapes, cranberry garlands, bird houses and a nest. All these decorated a real Christmas tree, which was lit by Debbi's pink lights. Lucinda Lapwing topped the tree - more about her to come in the future!
This year our tree was awarded joint third place.
December 2015
This year our tree was awarded joint third place.
December 2015
Premature Baby Christmas Hats
Jo, Janet and other members of our WI had been making hats and stockings for the premature babies who will be in the City and QMC hospitals over Christmas. The hats help the families feel that their baby, despite the problems that keep it in hospital, is still a part of the Christmas festivities. The picture shows Kerrie Grainger from the City Hospital receiving the hats.
December 2015
December 2015
Beauvale Priory Christmas Market
We had the opportunity to have a stall at the busy Beauvale Priory Christmas Market. We sold the birds which had been on the tree at the Christmas tree festival, various craft items, cakes, preserves and fresh vegetables.
Although we were located in an unheated barn, we had a busy day, and raised £185 for WI funds. Thank you to everyone who donated items, and to those who gave up their Sunday to run the stall.
December 2015
Although we were located in an unheated barn, we had a busy day, and raised £185 for WI funds. Thank you to everyone who donated items, and to those who gave up their Sunday to run the stall.
December 2015
Tuesday Morning Christmas Party
For our morning Christmas party, we had plenty of the usual food and merriment.
As a challenge Janet brought a number of items belonging to a friend who collects Victoriana. All were items which may have been given in Victorian times, and we had to identify as many as possible. From glove stretchers to page turners, the items provoked much discussion. the most anyone scored out of the 15 items was 7. Can anyone identify this object?
December 2015
As a challenge Janet brought a number of items belonging to a friend who collects Victoriana. All were items which may have been given in Victorian times, and we had to identify as many as possible. From glove stretchers to page turners, the items provoked much discussion. the most anyone scored out of the 15 items was 7. Can anyone identify this object?
December 2015
Thursday Evening Christmas Party
We had a new venue for the Thursday evening Christmas party, as the village hall was unavailable. So we went down the road to Bestwood Miners Welfare, who made us very welcome.
For the second time this year we were entertained by the very talented Ashfield School Vocal Ensemble, this time singing a number of seasonal songs. They are all very talented, and their repertoire has been honed to perfection by their vocal coach, Mrs Guy. However, the choir was only able to stay for around half an hour as they had a second booking that evening in Nottingham.
This was followed by a fuddle with a great deal of lovely food being provided.
The evening concluded with a game of 'Sit down if...', and the awarding of the Secret Santa presents.
A collection was made for the flood victims in Cumbria - we have collected £260 in total which will be changed into vouchers for stores local to that area.
We wish all our members a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. We look forward to seeing you all in January.
December 2015
For the second time this year we were entertained by the very talented Ashfield School Vocal Ensemble, this time singing a number of seasonal songs. They are all very talented, and their repertoire has been honed to perfection by their vocal coach, Mrs Guy. However, the choir was only able to stay for around half an hour as they had a second booking that evening in Nottingham.
This was followed by a fuddle with a great deal of lovely food being provided.
The evening concluded with a game of 'Sit down if...', and the awarding of the Secret Santa presents.
A collection was made for the flood victims in Cumbria - we have collected £260 in total which will be changed into vouchers for stores local to that area.
We wish all our members a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. We look forward to seeing you all in January.
December 2015