‘WI Talk’ by Sheila Goldsworthy

Former CFWI Chairman and current Assistant Media Officer Sheila Goldsworthy writes a wonderful monthly WI column for The Cornishman. Here is Sheila’s December column:

Nothing swings us into the Christmas frame of mind better than the sounds of carols accompanied by a magnificent organ, and we had this in perfection at the CFWI annual carol service at the imposing King Charles the Martyr Parish Church at Falmouth. Led by Canon Bill Stuart-White, who gave a very timely and thoughtful address which was well-suited to a WI congregation, the lessons and carols certainly took on a special significance in the atmosphere of this beautiful church.

This Christmas, members also have had the chance to don the posh frocks and take the jewels out of the safe for two county lunches, one at the Royal Duchy Hotel, Falmouth and the other at the Hannafore Point Hotel, Looe. As usual the happy setting made these occasions very special, with plenty of chatter in good company and with delicious food – for example, the dark chocolate tart, poached fruits and cherry ripple ice cream, was a dessert that equalled any television culinary concoction, really stimulating the taste buds! It was also very pleasant to meet the new members now working at Chy Noweth an Conteth, to put a face to the voice on the telephone, but it was sad to say farewell to Sue Martin who is now retiring. Her cheery voice inspired confidence to the caller because she always knew the answer to any testy question.

Food is also a popular subject that features in the new year’s agenda. Firstly, on Friday 27 January there is an Italian-themed lunch at Chy Noweth an Conteth. Amongst the classic Italian dishes there is a selection of antipasti meats, olives and breadsticks or minestrone soup. Main courses will include pasta, lasagne and a selection of salads. This is followed by a choice of desserts, with tea or coffee. Then entertainment! So if you fancy an event with a continental flavour to add colour to the dark January days, this is for you.

There has been much media coverage concerning International Women’s Day, and CFWI is doing their bit to promote this notable day by having a delectable afternoon tea at the Penventon Hotel in Redruth on 8 March at 2pm, so put that date in your brand new red diary now. The speaker will be writer, historian and genealogist, Dr Lesley Trotter, who is currently editing a book on important women in Cornish history and she will be delighting us with a talk on that subject. It promises to be a stimulating afternoon.

Talking of international topics, there is also a plea going out from Fairtrade, that if there are any further presents to buy or food to purchase not to forget to look for the Fairtrade symbol. The farmers who earn their living by selling Fairtrade goods have had a very difficult year in extreme weather conditions. Buying that extra bar of chocolate is good for both the seller and purchaser; Fairtrade chocolate and clementine truffles sound like a very tasty treat, and Fairtrade body balms are quite luxuriant. There is a huge selection of clothing and craft goods at really competitive prices. Fairtrade Fortnight is 27 February -12 March, so there will be more bargains on the way.

Bird Watching is a hobby that many WI members follow, so the site at Walmsley Sanctuary will be of great interest when on 7 February from 10am-12noon there will be a CFWI bird watching session. The guide will be Adrian Langdon who is a volunteer warden of the Walmsley Bird Sanctuary on the Amble Marshes, owned by the Cornwall Bird Watching and Preservation Society. It is recommended that wellies, warm clothing, waterproofs and binoculars are necessities to bring to appreciate the element of this event. There are steps to negotiate and a half mile’s walk. There are no toilet facilities.

It’s very encouraging to see outside events being planned now for February which will be warmer and dryer than this month’s icy blasts. The unpredictable weather could even necessitate sun-cream. Whatever the weather members will be assured of an entertaining and educational morning.

Another welcome experience is the return of the CFWI Holiday, which will take place in the Cotswolds next October. We have had many very successful holidays in the past, where we have made new friends, and enjoyed visiting a different area. All the information is with the WI Secretary, so start saving those pennies now.