Croft WI November meeting by Pat Hewitt FOLLOWING the reading of her yearly report at Croft WI AGM, president Doreen Clare gave an emotional resignation speech.

After performing the role of president for 10 years, Doreen related how she first came to join the WI and, even though she had never given a speech in her life, decided to accept the challenge of being president of the Croft Institute.

Attending interesting and exciting events, especially the national WI AGM at the Royal Albert Hall, making new friends were all enjoyed by Doreen during her years in the role and she thanked members of the Committee for their help, especially Barbara Fazakerley and Audrey Stokes, both committee members for nearly 16 years.

An enthusiastic vote of thanks was given for all Doreen’s hard work.

Secretary Norma Owen’s report related how Croft is a vibrant WI having 98 members and incorporates a readers group, bowling and darts teams, luncheon club, craft group, food safety and hygiene courses, theatre visits and outings also a float entry in the Croft carnival every year.

Vicki Gaskell was thanked for organising the many interesting speakers throughout the year.

Ann Lamming gave the treasurers report revealing that 2015 had been a successful year.

Ann will be taking on the role of president and was presented with a badge of office by retiring president Doreen, who wished her every success in her future role.

Concluding her acceptance speech Ann hoped that the WI in its second century would be inspired and continue to inspire others.

A quiz and buffet was enjoyed after the conclusion of business.

The competition was won by Diane Simms, second was Nicky Adams, third Pat Gallagher.

Diary Dates: November 24, Readers Group; December 2 and 3, Christmas at White Friars; 9, Christmas party at Statham Lodge; 11, Carol service at Christ Church, Croft.