Berkswich Women's Institute meets in Walton Village Hall on
the first Wednesday of each month at 7.15 p.m.
Visitors are always welcome
Fee £1.50 (inc. refreshments)
Being a member of the WI is a way to meet new people and join in a wide range of enjoyable activities. There is something for everyone. It is also a good way to get training in new skills for work or leisure, or an opportunity to learn traditional crafts. It offers the chance to campaign on issues important to women both in this country and across the world.
The largest organisation of its kind for women, the WI started in the UK in 1915 and now boasts 250,000 members. It has its own magazine - "Home & Country", and gift catalogue. Members also get special discounts on tickets to all manner of interesting places. There are event to attend, locally, within the county.
Berkswich WI is part of this great organisation. Monthly meetings are held in the village hall. Members attend other activities such as the group meetings and the Triennial meeting in the Albert Hall. Some members sing in the Staffordshire WI Choir, going on tour, and taking part in the annual Carol Service in Lichfield Cathedral. By special invitation some members had a preview of the new Bull Ring Centre in Birmingham. Others have acquired new craft skills such as painting on glass, water colour painting and signing for the deaf. Opportunities are given to members to attend the WI's own adult learning college at Denman, Oxfordshire.
The Annual Staffordshire County Show encourages members to display their talents in food and craft by entering the competitions run by the Staffordshire Federation. Berkswich members have won several trophies as well as money prizes.
Berkswich has its own committee who arrange the programme for the year. Members are invited to help with refreshments, or run a raffle.
