Archive 2019
Panto and Cheers
10th December 2019
We were well entertained by Trevor Lee who told us about the history of Pantomime, shared with us various anecdotes and tales from the Theatre Royal in Nottingham and we heard about some of the famous folk who had trod the boards there.
We also had a sing a long to various songs that would have featured on the stage.
To round off the last meeting of the year we enjoyed some delicious cakes and mulled wine.
December 10th 2019
10th December 2019
We were well entertained by Trevor Lee who told us about the history of Pantomime, shared with us various anecdotes and tales from the Theatre Royal in Nottingham and we heard about some of the famous folk who had trod the boards there.
We also had a sing a long to various songs that would have featured on the stage.
To round off the last meeting of the year we enjoyed some delicious cakes and mulled wine.
December 10th 2019
Our Amazing Tree Makes it a Double...
7th December 2019
Wow! We triumphed again and won 1st prize in the Hucknall Christmas Tree Festival!
Well done to everyone involved in this fantastic achievement, with special thanks to Janet for all her hard work in putting this together.
For those who haven't had the chance to see this amazing tree, it is now on display in Hucknall Library for a couple more weeks.
In January all the hats will be taken off the frame and donated to the homeless.
7th December 2019
Wow! We triumphed again and won 1st prize in the Hucknall Christmas Tree Festival!
Well done to everyone involved in this fantastic achievement, with special thanks to Janet for all her hard work in putting this together.
For those who haven't had the chance to see this amazing tree, it is now on display in Hucknall Library for a couple more weeks.
In January all the hats will be taken off the frame and donated to the homeless.
Christmas Party Night
6th December 2019
The pictures say it all, lovely company, beautiful tables (courtesy of the committee) and wonderful entertainment from the Brinsley Community Choir. An evening of much chatter, fun and laughter.
More pictures can be found in the gallery
6th December 2019
The pictures say it all, lovely company, beautiful tables (courtesy of the committee) and wonderful entertainment from the Brinsley Community Choir. An evening of much chatter, fun and laughter.
More pictures can be found in the gallery
Fantastic result!
We must be getting better at netball as one of our mixed teams (Lapwings and Willington) got into the final! And lost to a decent score of 3-2.
What would have happened if we had stayed as the Lapwings netball team?
However we came last in the previous tournament so coming 2nd and 5th was a definite sign of improvement.
.
The day was very enjoyable with other challenges to keep us busy.
A great atmosphere - what else would you expect from WI ladies!
Helen and Rita were thrilled to get their medals.
And as you can see by the group picture there were medals galore for both the mixed teams.
We must be getting better at netball as one of our mixed teams (Lapwings and Willington) got into the final! And lost to a decent score of 3-2.
What would have happened if we had stayed as the Lapwings netball team?
However we came last in the previous tournament so coming 2nd and 5th was a definite sign of improvement.
.
The day was very enjoyable with other challenges to keep us busy.
A great atmosphere - what else would you expect from WI ladies!
Helen and Rita were thrilled to get their medals.
And as you can see by the group picture there were medals galore for both the mixed teams.
Getting ready for Christmas
Thursday 28th November 2019
Thursday's meeting was a very active evening, with huge bundles of greenery and Christmassy decorations for the table arrangements. Some went for small, some for exotic and the brave went for large and exotic. Lots of chatter and laughter but a very impressive collection of table ornaments were produced.
Thursday 28th November 2019
Thursday's meeting was a very active evening, with huge bundles of greenery and Christmassy decorations for the table arrangements. Some went for small, some for exotic and the brave went for large and exotic. Lots of chatter and laughter but a very impressive collection of table ornaments were produced.
Lapwings at the Beeb...
A fun night was had on our recent visit to the local BBC studios. They might have found some new recruits. More pictures can be found in the gallery.
A fun night was had on our recent visit to the local BBC studios. They might have found some new recruits. More pictures can be found in the gallery.
Getting Creative with Christmas Crafts
Tuesday 12th November 2019
The sound of chatter and laughter filled the room as we all tried a variety of crafts - from card making, glass painting, paper trees, paper angels, pom poms to gift bags - all of course with a Christmas theme.
Not only was it great fun, we were all very productive and surprised ourselves with the results of our work. To top it all we managed to finish off the cakes and sausage rolls which were left over from the Autumn Fair.
Evidence of our hard work and enjoyment can be seen below and more pictures can be found in the gallery.
Tuesday 12th November 2019
The sound of chatter and laughter filled the room as we all tried a variety of crafts - from card making, glass painting, paper trees, paper angels, pom poms to gift bags - all of course with a Christmas theme.
Not only was it great fun, we were all very productive and surprised ourselves with the results of our work. To top it all we managed to finish off the cakes and sausage rolls which were left over from the Autumn Fair.
Evidence of our hard work and enjoyment can be seen below and more pictures can be found in the gallery.
Autumn Craft Fair
Saturday 9th November
We hosted another very successful Craft Fair in Papplewick Village Hall. A wide range of talented artisans selling their wares, along with our ever popular Tearoom with lots of scrumptious cakes and savouries. Below is a brief glimpse - more photos can be found in the gallery.
This year a share of our profits will be donated to Nottinghamshire Blood Bikes.
Saturday 9th November
We hosted another very successful Craft Fair in Papplewick Village Hall. A wide range of talented artisans selling their wares, along with our ever popular Tearoom with lots of scrumptious cakes and savouries. Below is a brief glimpse - more photos can be found in the gallery.
This year a share of our profits will be donated to Nottinghamshire Blood Bikes.
Something to think about
Tuesday October 8th 2019
We had a thought provoking morning, Hayley Berry from Nottinghamshire Mind talked to us about Mental Health.
There were some shocking statistics;-
- in the UK in 2018 there were 18 suicides a day
- 1674 were female and 5185 male
- suicide is the biggest cause of death in males aged between 18-45
Hayley led us all through a mindfulness exercise. and talked about the 5 main things to keep us well.
These were;- Connect, Keep Learning, Be Active, Give and Take Notice. Interesting how aligned this is to being an active member of our WI and taking part in our various sub groups.
Tuesday October 8th 2019
We had a thought provoking morning, Hayley Berry from Nottinghamshire Mind talked to us about Mental Health.
There were some shocking statistics;-
- in the UK in 2018 there were 18 suicides a day
- 1674 were female and 5185 male
- suicide is the biggest cause of death in males aged between 18-45
Hayley led us all through a mindfulness exercise. and talked about the 5 main things to keep us well.
These were;- Connect, Keep Learning, Be Active, Give and Take Notice. Interesting how aligned this is to being an active member of our WI and taking part in our various sub groups.
Heroes on bikes
Thursday 26th September 2019
It was a surprise to us all as a large yellow and black motorbike was wheeled into the Village Hall. This was part of a demonstration and presentation on behalf of the Nottinghamshire Blood Bikes given by John Devlin. Their voluntary work greatly helps the NHS in fulfilling its role. They are 'unsung' heroes who go about their duty quietly, often in the middle of the night, to ensure that blood, breast milk, organs and other necessities get to their destinations quickly. Self - funding and reliant purely on volunteers, this is a group to be admired. President Jo presented a cheque and further monies will be gifted after our Craft Fair.
And then the ladies couldn't resist a pose on the bikes - Teresa, however, looked a little uncertain!
Thursday 26th September 2019
It was a surprise to us all as a large yellow and black motorbike was wheeled into the Village Hall. This was part of a demonstration and presentation on behalf of the Nottinghamshire Blood Bikes given by John Devlin. Their voluntary work greatly helps the NHS in fulfilling its role. They are 'unsung' heroes who go about their duty quietly, often in the middle of the night, to ensure that blood, breast milk, organs and other necessities get to their destinations quickly. Self - funding and reliant purely on volunteers, this is a group to be admired. President Jo presented a cheque and further monies will be gifted after our Craft Fair.
And then the ladies couldn't resist a pose on the bikes - Teresa, however, looked a little uncertain!
Chatsworth Gardens
Tuesday September 10th 2019
Christine Robinson (former housekeeper at Chatsworth House) took us on a historical tour of the beautiful gardens and gave us an insight into how they had evolved over the years, using historical photo's and plans in a presentation.
It was amazing to hear that the gravity fed Emporor's fountain (the largest in Europe) took a mere six months to build, this involved not only creating a new lake, but also draining moorland and creating a pipe and sluice network! Makes you think how long it would take to build today, considerably longer that six months I suspect.
Christine also gave us many tips of places to visit away from the crowds to enjoy the beautiful grounds and park vista's.
Tuesday September 10th 2019
Christine Robinson (former housekeeper at Chatsworth House) took us on a historical tour of the beautiful gardens and gave us an insight into how they had evolved over the years, using historical photo's and plans in a presentation.
It was amazing to hear that the gravity fed Emporor's fountain (the largest in Europe) took a mere six months to build, this involved not only creating a new lake, but also draining moorland and creating a pipe and sluice network! Makes you think how long it would take to build today, considerably longer that six months I suspect.
Christine also gave us many tips of places to visit away from the crowds to enjoy the beautiful grounds and park vista's.
Magical Gardens
August 20th 2019
We had a wonderful day out at Trentham Gardens, exploring the beautiful gardens with a fascinating array of garden sculptures. Then we found the time to indulge in a little retail therapy. more pictures can be found on the Trentham Gardens gallery page.
August 20th 2019
We had a wonderful day out at Trentham Gardens, exploring the beautiful gardens with a fascinating array of garden sculptures. Then we found the time to indulge in a little retail therapy. more pictures can be found on the Trentham Gardens gallery page.
Victorian Waterworks!
August 15th 2019
We had a evening visit to this amazing place, designed in the early 1880s to pump millions of gallons of clean fresh water every day to the rapidly increasing population of Industrial Nottingham. It is a fantastic example of Victorian engineering and excess at its best. Even the drain pipes are works of art! The brick built underground reservoir is also a place of beauty and also has great acoustics as a rendition of Jerusalem took place. Many more pictures can be found in the Papplewick Pumping Station gallery page
August 15th 2019
We had a evening visit to this amazing place, designed in the early 1880s to pump millions of gallons of clean fresh water every day to the rapidly increasing population of Industrial Nottingham. It is a fantastic example of Victorian engineering and excess at its best. Even the drain pipes are works of art! The brick built underground reservoir is also a place of beauty and also has great acoustics as a rendition of Jerusalem took place. Many more pictures can be found in the Papplewick Pumping Station gallery page
Vice & Villainy
Thursday 25th July 2019
On the hottest day of the year so far Mildred Freeman, aka The Lady Historian, told us about the goings on in Nottingham in the Victorian times.
Crime, Vice and Villainy were rife and for huge numbers of poorly paid workers, living in poverty, crime was often a necessity not a choice. We heard gruesome tales of murder, theft and cruelty and all about the spectacle of a public execution.
Throw into this mix the "Angels" of Angel Row and we heard some entertaining stories about the ladies of the night.
Thursday 25th July 2019
On the hottest day of the year so far Mildred Freeman, aka The Lady Historian, told us about the goings on in Nottingham in the Victorian times.
Crime, Vice and Villainy were rife and for huge numbers of poorly paid workers, living in poverty, crime was often a necessity not a choice. We heard gruesome tales of murder, theft and cruelty and all about the spectacle of a public execution.
Throw into this mix the "Angels" of Angel Row and we heard some entertaining stories about the ladies of the night.
Air Ambulance
Tuesday 9th July 2019
We had a fascinating talk from Peter Nicholls, a volunteer fundraiser, from the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance.
Having originally started in 1994, the service has developed and will soon be available around the clock 7 days a week. This will cost approx. £4 million each year, all of which has to be raised through events, the air ambulance lottery and charity shops as the Air Ambulance receives no government support or national lottery funding.
The air ambulance has a crew of 5, 2 pilots, 2 paramedics and a doctor plus equipment costing £1 million. They have the skills to deal with every incident and also now carry blood in case it is needed. If bad weather grounds the helicopter, there are two rapid response units available too.
Our President Joanna Parris, presented a cheque for £100 for the Air Ambulance to Peter and volunteer shop assistant Lorraine Stokes.
Tuesday 9th July 2019
We had a fascinating talk from Peter Nicholls, a volunteer fundraiser, from the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance.
Having originally started in 1994, the service has developed and will soon be available around the clock 7 days a week. This will cost approx. £4 million each year, all of which has to be raised through events, the air ambulance lottery and charity shops as the Air Ambulance receives no government support or national lottery funding.
The air ambulance has a crew of 5, 2 pilots, 2 paramedics and a doctor plus equipment costing £1 million. They have the skills to deal with every incident and also now carry blood in case it is needed. If bad weather grounds the helicopter, there are two rapid response units available too.
Our President Joanna Parris, presented a cheque for £100 for the Air Ambulance to Peter and volunteer shop assistant Lorraine Stokes.
Summer Picnic
3rd July 2019
Every picture tells a story and they don't lie.
As can be seen below we had a fun packed evening at our summer picnic enjoying the wonderful setting of Beauvale Priory. Good food, great company, lots of laughter and blessed by fabulous weather. More pictures can be found in the Summer Picnic page in the gallery.
3rd July 2019
Every picture tells a story and they don't lie.
As can be seen below we had a fun packed evening at our summer picnic enjoying the wonderful setting of Beauvale Priory. Good food, great company, lots of laughter and blessed by fabulous weather. More pictures can be found in the Summer Picnic page in the gallery.
Serious stuff and games
Thursday 27th June 2019
Before the start of the 'serious' stuff, members were able to view the fantastic Art exhibition showing off the talent of the Lapwings Art groups.
Then the formal part - with the Treasurer's Report, the Secretary's overview and the President's report; the reading of which was shared out between Jan, Ann and Sue, as Jo was unable to attend due to previous commitments. However if you look very closely at the photo you can see she was there in 'cutout' form!
The second ' serious' formalities of the evening - voting in of a new President - were dealt with quickly and once again Jo Parris was voted in as President for Lapwings WI year 2019 - 2020.
Whilst votes were being counted we tucked into a fabulous selection of cheeses and freshly baked sourdough breads. Lovely combination!
'Serious' stuff over it was time for some games - what better than a game of Bingo and Sticky 13s to end the evening.
Thursday 27th June 2019
Before the start of the 'serious' stuff, members were able to view the fantastic Art exhibition showing off the talent of the Lapwings Art groups.
Then the formal part - with the Treasurer's Report, the Secretary's overview and the President's report; the reading of which was shared out between Jan, Ann and Sue, as Jo was unable to attend due to previous commitments. However if you look very closely at the photo you can see she was there in 'cutout' form!
The second ' serious' formalities of the evening - voting in of a new President - were dealt with quickly and once again Jo Parris was voted in as President for Lapwings WI year 2019 - 2020.
Whilst votes were being counted we tucked into a fabulous selection of cheeses and freshly baked sourdough breads. Lovely combination!
'Serious' stuff over it was time for some games - what better than a game of Bingo and Sticky 13s to end the evening.
Bingo & Bacon Baps
Tuesday meeting, June 2019
Our morning AGM got off to a fun start with a game of bingo, followed by our tea break which was enhanced due to the occasion with a Bacon Bap (Cob, Bun, Roll take your pick).
We then got on to the more formal part of the meeting with the Treasurer's Report, the President's review of the year and the Secretary's overview.
As we have two meetings a month, the WI formalities cannot be confirmed until the Thursday evening meeting has taken place and every member has had the chance to vote.
We closed our meeting with a few very noisy (and ever so slight competitive) rounds of sticky 13s.
Tuesday meeting, June 2019
Our morning AGM got off to a fun start with a game of bingo, followed by our tea break which was enhanced due to the occasion with a Bacon Bap (Cob, Bun, Roll take your pick).
We then got on to the more formal part of the meeting with the Treasurer's Report, the President's review of the year and the Secretary's overview.
As we have two meetings a month, the WI formalities cannot be confirmed until the Thursday evening meeting has taken place and every member has had the chance to vote.
We closed our meeting with a few very noisy (and ever so slight competitive) rounds of sticky 13s.
5th Birthday Party
June 2019
So how do we celebrate our 5th birthday - with a delicious afternoon tea of course.
110 Lapwings members enjoyed tea, much chatter and laughter at Eastwood Hall.
More pictures are in the photo gallery
June 2019
So how do we celebrate our 5th birthday - with a delicious afternoon tea of course.
110 Lapwings members enjoyed tea, much chatter and laughter at Eastwood Hall.
More pictures are in the photo gallery
Masonic Secrets
June 4th 2019
We had a fascinating tour around the Masonic Hall in Nottingham and an informative talk by Bill Lawrenson, followed by a lovely lunch at the Corinthian Restaurant.
Thank you to Linda and Tony Cooper for making this trip possible and for Jan, as ever her organising skills led to another successful outing.
June 4th 2019
We had a fascinating tour around the Masonic Hall in Nottingham and an informative talk by Bill Lawrenson, followed by a lovely lunch at the Corinthian Restaurant.
Thank you to Linda and Tony Cooper for making this trip possible and for Jan, as ever her organising skills led to another successful outing.
Netball - Sunday 'Wiggle and Giggle' Tournament
2nd June 2019
The Lapwings Walking Netball players braved another Tournament at a very impressive venue - Derby's Velodrome - a fantastic new build with cycling circuits above and various sports' courts below.
It was so much more enjoyable than our previous expedition, definitely more like 'Walking' netball!
We didn't win - might have even come last - but enjoyed the experience. However, Carol was awarded the Player of the 'Wiggle and Giggle' Matches medal.
Also very lucky to actually see the BBC Sports Personality Team of the Year 2018 Trophy which was awarded to the England National Netball Team (Vitality Roses).
2nd June 2019
The Lapwings Walking Netball players braved another Tournament at a very impressive venue - Derby's Velodrome - a fantastic new build with cycling circuits above and various sports' courts below.
It was so much more enjoyable than our previous expedition, definitely more like 'Walking' netball!
We didn't win - might have even come last - but enjoyed the experience. However, Carol was awarded the Player of the 'Wiggle and Giggle' Matches medal.
Also very lucky to actually see the BBC Sports Personality Team of the Year 2018 Trophy which was awarded to the England National Netball Team (Vitality Roses).
May Meetings
May 2019
Both our May meetings had the same agenda, a rather unusual format for us, but the meeting were both interesting and fun.
First the Resolutions were read out and thorough information was given by Jo, Sue and Jan so that we had a clear understanding when voting.
This was followed by a lively game of Lucky 13s... we're so competitive!
The hearty singing led by Helen on both days soon led to some 'air' (plastic) guitar playing and great vocal renditions of some well known numbers, accompanied by tambourines and maracas.
Again a game of Lucky 13s, ending with 'Jerusalem'! Different but very enjoyable!
May 2019
Both our May meetings had the same agenda, a rather unusual format for us, but the meeting were both interesting and fun.
First the Resolutions were read out and thorough information was given by Jo, Sue and Jan so that we had a clear understanding when voting.
This was followed by a lively game of Lucky 13s... we're so competitive!
The hearty singing led by Helen on both days soon led to some 'air' (plastic) guitar playing and great vocal renditions of some well known numbers, accompanied by tambourines and maracas.
Again a game of Lucky 13s, ending with 'Jerusalem'! Different but very enjoyable!
Imagine the cleaning...
April 2019
Being Head Housekeeper isn't a joke, especially if the house is Chatsworth.
Christine Robinson's talk about her life at Chatsworth was both entertaining and very interesting, especially on the subject of 'cleaning' Chatsworth.
She has always lived locally in the shadow of the great house and through a 'holiday' job eventually ended being its Head Housekeeper.
She spoke about the Devonshire family's determination to keep things up-to-date at Chatsworth, introducing new events and keeping older traditions. Her talk showed her passion for the House and although she has now retired she continues to stay in close contact and continues to live nearby.
Christine showed us Powerpoint pictures of how the 'cleaning' was done and also the great parties for 1,200 people in the grounds of Chatsworth!
Never mind the cleaning - think of the catering!
For anyone visiting Chatsworth you may look at it in a very different light.
April 2019
Being Head Housekeeper isn't a joke, especially if the house is Chatsworth.
Christine Robinson's talk about her life at Chatsworth was both entertaining and very interesting, especially on the subject of 'cleaning' Chatsworth.
She has always lived locally in the shadow of the great house and through a 'holiday' job eventually ended being its Head Housekeeper.
She spoke about the Devonshire family's determination to keep things up-to-date at Chatsworth, introducing new events and keeping older traditions. Her talk showed her passion for the House and although she has now retired she continues to stay in close contact and continues to live nearby.
Christine showed us Powerpoint pictures of how the 'cleaning' was done and also the great parties for 1,200 people in the grounds of Chatsworth!
Never mind the cleaning - think of the catering!
For anyone visiting Chatsworth you may look at it in a very different light.
Blooming Marvellous!
Tuesday meeting April 2019
We had a creative morning of flower arranging, led by our very own Sandra Hutchinson, who started us off with a demonstration.
Then we were let loose and as you can see from the small sample below there were some beautiful arrangements created.
Tuesday meeting April 2019
We had a creative morning of flower arranging, led by our very own Sandra Hutchinson, who started us off with a demonstration.
Then we were let loose and as you can see from the small sample below there were some beautiful arrangements created.
What a mind - curling experience!
March 2019
You would think we would get better at our second experience of indoor curling, but somehow those points evaded some of us. Too short, too long, knocked off by an opponent, thrown in the air, wheels coming off, chasing the curling 'stones' round - all the excuses possible. What would we be like on ice!
in spite of all that it was a very enjoyable evening again. There were winners - just - after a sudden death play-off. Thanks must go to the two very patient ladies who got us into teams and cajoled us into getting some points.
Instructions... Concentration... Final - no score... At last a winner!!
March 2019
You would think we would get better at our second experience of indoor curling, but somehow those points evaded some of us. Too short, too long, knocked off by an opponent, thrown in the air, wheels coming off, chasing the curling 'stones' round - all the excuses possible. What would we be like on ice!
in spite of all that it was a very enjoyable evening again. There were winners - just - after a sudden death play-off. Thanks must go to the two very patient ladies who got us into teams and cajoled us into getting some points.
Instructions... Concentration... Final - no score... At last a winner!!
Life in Gardening....
Tuesday Meeting, March 2019
John Stirland entertained us with tales of his life in horticulture. From his school days, his time with Boots and a spell at Wollaton Hall, through to his 42 years as gardening expert on Radio Nottingham.
Filled with anecdotes about the people he met over the years as well as expert knowledge in the Q&A session.
Not only did we learn a lot we laughed a lot as well.
Tuesday Meeting, March 2019
John Stirland entertained us with tales of his life in horticulture. From his school days, his time with Boots and a spell at Wollaton Hall, through to his 42 years as gardening expert on Radio Nottingham.
Filled with anecdotes about the people he met over the years as well as expert knowledge in the Q&A session.
Not only did we learn a lot we laughed a lot as well.
Bollywood comes to the Lapwings...again!
February 2019
Before the dancing President Joanna Parris presented a cheque to David Burnett, from the Community First Responders. He was, again, very grateful for the donation which will be used to buy necessary medical equipment used by the First Responders.
A full house for the welcome return of Vina Ladwa from the Manushi School of Dancing in Nottingham. Firstly, a massive queue to put on the beautiful saris brought by Vina, with a generous donation of a sari for the raffle - later won by Jane Boyce.
Vina explained the origins of the dancing: each movement of the hands, face, neck, the body and feet tells a little bit of the whole story. She taught the very eager ladies some of the movements and then quickened the pace to music. Quiet concentration and then the laughter showed that every one enjoyed the experience.
February 2019
Before the dancing President Joanna Parris presented a cheque to David Burnett, from the Community First Responders. He was, again, very grateful for the donation which will be used to buy necessary medical equipment used by the First Responders.
A full house for the welcome return of Vina Ladwa from the Manushi School of Dancing in Nottingham. Firstly, a massive queue to put on the beautiful saris brought by Vina, with a generous donation of a sari for the raffle - later won by Jane Boyce.
Vina explained the origins of the dancing: each movement of the hands, face, neck, the body and feet tells a little bit of the whole story. She taught the very eager ladies some of the movements and then quickened the pace to music. Quiet concentration and then the laughter showed that every one enjoyed the experience.
An exciting month for Netball
February has been such an exciting month for the Lapwings Walking Netball ladies. On Thursday 28th they took part in their first Round Robin Tournament at Loughborough University. This was not related to WI so they were a little anxious as to what to expect.
10 players, plus Coach Laura and Kath, faced the 8 other teams in the competition.
We watched the first matches being played - running, pushing, contacting, jumping - this was NOT Walking Netball! After the first round of matches were played the organisers stopped the event and reminded the players what Walking Netball was about!!
It didn't help that some of the umpires were not familiar with the rules of Walking Netball and did not pull up players when they forgot that it was Walking Netball. Kath ended up scoring for most of the session as teams did not provide scorers!
But we braved the onslaught and even forgot to 'walk' ourselves - if you can't beat them, join them! All the other teams had taken part in Tournaments before and some were involved in games within their own areas - practising every week!
BUT we were not last. Just next to last. The compensation was that we again met some past and present England players as well as Loughborough Lightning Super League players.
Gill had a great day (it was her birthday) - we voted her our player of the match - she received a Loughborough water bottle and had her photo taken with the Loughborough Lightning players, followed by everyone singing 'Happy Birthday' to her - 'made my day'.
If another Tournament comes we will play again!
February has been such an exciting month for the Lapwings Walking Netball ladies. On Thursday 28th they took part in their first Round Robin Tournament at Loughborough University. This was not related to WI so they were a little anxious as to what to expect.
10 players, plus Coach Laura and Kath, faced the 8 other teams in the competition.
We watched the first matches being played - running, pushing, contacting, jumping - this was NOT Walking Netball! After the first round of matches were played the organisers stopped the event and reminded the players what Walking Netball was about!!
It didn't help that some of the umpires were not familiar with the rules of Walking Netball and did not pull up players when they forgot that it was Walking Netball. Kath ended up scoring for most of the session as teams did not provide scorers!
But we braved the onslaught and even forgot to 'walk' ourselves - if you can't beat them, join them! All the other teams had taken part in Tournaments before and some were involved in games within their own areas - practising every week!
BUT we were not last. Just next to last. The compensation was that we again met some past and present England players as well as Loughborough Lightning Super League players.
Gill had a great day (it was her birthday) - we voted her our player of the match - she received a Loughborough water bottle and had her photo taken with the Loughborough Lightning players, followed by everyone singing 'Happy Birthday' to her - 'made my day'.
If another Tournament comes we will play again!
It is difficult to describe what a fantastic day the lapwings Walking Netball group encountered.
We left promptly at 8.00am and arrived at Denman College 2 and a half hours later. A bit late due to having a tour around the village as the Satnav decided to take us slightly off route. The entrance to Denman is very narrow and not really suitable for even small coaches!
Ruth Pickthorn was overjoyed to see us (think she thought we were not coming). She kept mentioning the words 'Demo, Angels!' it transpired that we and another 2 smaller groups of WI were to be the demonstration group. Great! As we entered the marquee with its portable netball court, what should meet us but a big stand up poster with Lynn Jordan greeting everyone! She was so excited and had her picture taken later with the poster by us and the official photographer.
We were then all told how the day would enfold by Ruth, after which we were asked to go into the Ferris Room for coffee, biscuits and a quick introduction. To our surprise the tables had lovely bouquets of roses and small A4 posters of Lynn, Gill Strickland and Amy Goodman scattered on them. AND in one corner was another big stand up poster featuring Ann Whyte and Kath Howard. Excitement mounting!!! The intro started with a video - guess what - it was the one taken when we went to St. Ann's to support a group Ruth was taking. And to top it all there were TVs with rolling Powerpoints. Interspersed with pictures of many WI Walking Netball Teams, were pictures of Ann, Kath, Tracey, Amy, Rita, Gill and Lynn. WE felt mighty PROUD
We left promptly at 8.00am and arrived at Denman College 2 and a half hours later. A bit late due to having a tour around the village as the Satnav decided to take us slightly off route. The entrance to Denman is very narrow and not really suitable for even small coaches!
Ruth Pickthorn was overjoyed to see us (think she thought we were not coming). She kept mentioning the words 'Demo, Angels!' it transpired that we and another 2 smaller groups of WI were to be the demonstration group. Great! As we entered the marquee with its portable netball court, what should meet us but a big stand up poster with Lynn Jordan greeting everyone! She was so excited and had her picture taken later with the poster by us and the official photographer.
We were then all told how the day would enfold by Ruth, after which we were asked to go into the Ferris Room for coffee, biscuits and a quick introduction. To our surprise the tables had lovely bouquets of roses and small A4 posters of Lynn, Gill Strickland and Amy Goodman scattered on them. AND in one corner was another big stand up poster featuring Ann Whyte and Kath Howard. Excitement mounting!!! The intro started with a video - guess what - it was the one taken when we went to St. Ann's to support a group Ruth was taking. And to top it all there were TVs with rolling Powerpoints. Interspersed with pictures of many WI Walking Netball Teams, were pictures of Ann, Kath, Tracey, Amy, Rita, Gill and Lynn. WE felt mighty PROUD
So what other VIPs were there besides us! Lynne Stubbings (NFWI Chair) and other members of the Board; Joanna Adams (CEO@ englandnetball); Lindsay Sartori (Honorary President@ englandnetball) ; Mike Diaper (Exec. Director Sport England) - he came to see if the money given to Walking netball was worth it!! Helen, who directed the photo shoot we did a year ago and of course, the lovely Ama Agabeze, who was just so accommodating and friendly. In the afternoon they all had to get rid of their heels, put on trainers and play. Very funny, especially Ama whose side was definitely going to win - some rough play there!
After the introduction we went back into the marquee to start the demo games. We did not play as Lapwings but were mixed with the other 2 WI teams. Ruth's warm-ups amused everyone and when we were actually playing the games it was very difficult to stop throwing the ball to someone who is always on your team! Still we were impressive.
Lunch was buffet-style, very nice! Disappointed that there were only flapjacks and brownies as cakes - we thought there might be a Victoria cream sponge or two!
After lunch, Joanna Adams spoke to everyone about the effect of the Englandnetball/WI partnership and its success. After which there was a Q&A session with Ama Agbeze - she was funny, very relaxed speaker and very interesting, especially about her training schedule and how little time the England Roses have to train together as they all have jobs as well as representing England. Time for them to have the same status as other teams representing England.
The afternoon was spent watching the non - Walking Netball players 'have a go'. Very entertaining. Everything was finished at 2.45pm, but then the photographer who had been snapping pics all the time (but then we're used to it), asked us if we wouldn't mind staying behind for some more photos of us shooting and playing. Of course we agreed!
Lunch was buffet-style, very nice! Disappointed that there were only flapjacks and brownies as cakes - we thought there might be a Victoria cream sponge or two!
After lunch, Joanna Adams spoke to everyone about the effect of the Englandnetball/WI partnership and its success. After which there was a Q&A session with Ama Agbeze - she was funny, very relaxed speaker and very interesting, especially about her training schedule and how little time the England Roses have to train together as they all have jobs as well as representing England. Time for them to have the same status as other teams representing England.
The afternoon was spent watching the non - Walking Netball players 'have a go'. Very entertaining. Everything was finished at 2.45pm, but then the photographer who had been snapping pics all the time (but then we're used to it), asked us if we wouldn't mind staying behind for some more photos of us shooting and playing. Of course we agreed!
Tasty Tuesday
February 2019
We were very lucky to have Philip Roadley the owner and baker at the local artisan Bakery Spelt and Rye in Hucknall come and talk to us.
Philip told us how he had worked for many years in France and missed the bread so much he learnt how to bake it when he returned to Nottingham.
From a hobby grew a business and the bakery itself is worth a visit as not only is there a great variety of bread and bakery products on sale, it is also a delicatessen and stocks treats from a numbers of local suppliers, "jams from Lenton and sauces from Sneinton" as well as local honey and pork pies. and much more....
We enjoyed sampling his delicious bread and no doubt he has found a few new customers.
February 2019
We were very lucky to have Philip Roadley the owner and baker at the local artisan Bakery Spelt and Rye in Hucknall come and talk to us.
Philip told us how he had worked for many years in France and missed the bread so much he learnt how to bake it when he returned to Nottingham.
From a hobby grew a business and the bakery itself is worth a visit as not only is there a great variety of bread and bakery products on sale, it is also a delicatessen and stocks treats from a numbers of local suppliers, "jams from Lenton and sauces from Sneinton" as well as local honey and pork pies. and much more....
We enjoyed sampling his delicious bread and no doubt he has found a few new customers.
Charity Presentation & Colour Analysis
January 2019
Before the Colour Analysis, President Jo presented a cheque on behalf of the Lapwings to the Nottinghamshire Search and Rescue Team (NSART) - the proceeds of the November Craft Fair. The two gentlemen from NSART were very grateful for the donation and continued support from the Lapwings, but did not yet know if the proceeds were to be used for something specific.
January 2019
Before the Colour Analysis, President Jo presented a cheque on behalf of the Lapwings to the Nottinghamshire Search and Rescue Team (NSART) - the proceeds of the November Craft Fair. The two gentlemen from NSART were very grateful for the donation and continued support from the Lapwings, but did not yet know if the proceeds were to be used for something specific.
At the first Thursday meeting of 2019, the crowd of ladies were very eager to listen to Sue Burton, a Colour and Style Analysis Consultant, as she demonstrated what colours to wear to look really good. Whether you are a summer, winter, autumn or spring person, there's a right combination of colours - not just black! Black is no longer an excuse to look thinner or smarter - there are plenty of colours which can do the trick more effectively. And Sue proved it by analysing the colour combinations suitable for a very nervous Lapwings member, and provoked a lot of discussion!
Craft and Chat
January 2019
What better way to start the new year that have a group craft session. There was lots of activity, from people sewing together squares to make blankets for the homeless, to paper flower, card making and clay modeling. ,,,,,and of course a lot of chatter as we caught up on what had been happening to the friends around us.
Janet also told us about a new community project for the Childrens Hospital of making puppets. Various patterns have been up loaded to the patterns page.
January 2019
What better way to start the new year that have a group craft session. There was lots of activity, from people sewing together squares to make blankets for the homeless, to paper flower, card making and clay modeling. ,,,,,and of course a lot of chatter as we caught up on what had been happening to the friends around us.
Janet also told us about a new community project for the Childrens Hospital of making puppets. Various patterns have been up loaded to the patterns page.