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BBC Presenter Attracts Capacity Crowd
27 April 2013
BBC Radio Nottingham's Paul Robey
On Wednesday 24 April we held our annual Open Evening when our friends and neighbours (both men and women) are invited to share in our meeting. On these occasions we book a special speaker and this year was no exception. Paul Robey of BBC Radio Nottingham was the star attraction giving his talk "Nottingham Nonsense & Nostalgia". His talk took us through his childhood musical influences, a potted career history and some insights into the making of his Sunday afternoon radio programme. He entertained the capacity crowd with his stories before taking questions from the floor. He then posed for photos, signed autographs and took notes of names and messages for his forthcoming Sunday radio show before disappearing off home packed up with a selection of WI cakes and biscuits. We hope all our guests enjoyed the night as much as we certainly did. What a lovely man - highly recommended if you are looking for a speaker for your group.
More photos HERE.
More photos HERE.
Getting Shirty
26 April 2013
Carol's quilted creations
Have you ever wondered what to do with all those shirts that fray on the collar & cuffs but still have some life left in them? Well Carol Hart has found a great way to recycle them: She makes them into wonderful bed quilts. A couple of her latest creations are pictured here. So next time you catch her admiring your shirt beware, she may well have an ulterior motive!
Dynamic Fund-raising
22 April 2013
Over the May Bank Holiday weekend extra fund-raising will be taking place up at the Dynamo House Café. Alongside the usual Winding Engine House tours, teas, coffees and cakes will be a bevy of craft & second-hand book stalls to check out. It is hoped that this can become a regular feature at the Dynamo House so do come along and support this trial run. Check out the details of this and other local events on wherecanwego.
Happy Birthday Ma'am
21 April 2013
Bestwood Village WI ladies celebrating
Today a very special member of the WI has her 87th birthday - HRH Queen Elizabeth II. To celebrate this auspicious day Bestwood Village WI ladies gathered for a special tea party. Attired in their best red, white & blue they were treated to posh sandwiches, decorated cup cakes and a chocolate fountain to dip their fruit and marshmallows in. The conservatory at Christa's house was awash with patriotic bunting and so many ladies turned up that we had to play musical chairs. If you got up to refill your plate your chair was likely to be taken by someone returning from the buffet table. To round off the event glasses were filled with some bubbles and a toast was raised to the Queen.
Happy Birthday Ma'am!
A few more photos are in the gallery
Happy Birthday Ma'am!
A few more photos are in the gallery
Teacher, Teacher's Pet?
17 April 2013
Kay receives the SNRB from Jack Sheffield
Bestwood Village WI were proud to be invited to the stage twice today at the Nottinghamshire Federation's Annual Council Meeting; once to receive the Sheila Norris Rose Bowl for their winning annual report and one to acknowledge their county win in the Big Walk; Little Splash contest for the small WI's section.
Prizes were collected from Jack Sheffield (author of the "Teacher!Teacher!" books) by Kay Brown & Brenda Langsdale respectively.
Photos in the gallery show other aspects of the wonderful ACM.
Prizes were collected from Jack Sheffield (author of the "Teacher!Teacher!" books) by Kay Brown & Brenda Langsdale respectively.
Photos in the gallery show other aspects of the wonderful ACM.
Bestwood In Bloom
15 April 2013
The two days of Spring into Bestwood art workshop had a slow start but by the time it was all packed away on Saturday afternoon the place had experienced a really creative buzz. It was good to see all the individual clay flowers come together in the ceramic garden and some of the results of the paper crafting will decorate the walls of the Dynamo House for a while to brighten it up.
The Café was kept busy making drinks and selling biscuits & cakes all day so it was a good job they had all the new equipment in place funded by a grant from local Councillor, Chris Barnfather.
Here are a few of the WI ladies' flowers in the garden. There are more photos of the ceramic garden and the café art work are in the gallery.
The Café was kept busy making drinks and selling biscuits & cakes all day so it was a good job they had all the new equipment in place funded by a grant from local Councillor, Chris Barnfather.
Here are a few of the WI ladies' flowers in the garden. There are more photos of the ceramic garden and the café art work are in the gallery.
Spring Into Bestwood
12 April 2013
Dynamo House Café by the Winding Engine House
The Spring into Bestwood Event starts at 11am today. Workshops are being run by Sandy Bywater for adults & children to reflect nature in spring in the medium of paper. The ceramic garden created by village groups in March will be on display too.
Pop along to have a go or to have a look whilst you have a coffee and a cake at the Dynamo House Café which will be open during the event.
All drinks and cakes 50p each.
Packets of WI biscuits on sale at discount prices too.
Pop along to have a go or to have a look whilst you have a coffee and a cake at the Dynamo House Café which will be open during the event.
All drinks and cakes 50p each.
Packets of WI biscuits on sale at discount prices too.
March Meeting Has Easter Treats
31 March 2013
The March WI meeting held on the evening of 27 March included some lovely Easter treats made by the hostess duo of Chris & Clair Marshall. A photo of a few of them is included here - many had already disappeared before the photo was taken!
The evening was lots of fun with a humerous talk by Colin Bower being the main entertainment. He taught us all to read the signs we pass every day a little more carefully as they don't always say what they meant to and can raise a smile or two along the way.
Sign in a florist shop:-
"If your relative is at death's door, our flowers will pull them through" Ho!Ho!
The evening was lots of fun with a humerous talk by Colin Bower being the main entertainment. He taught us all to read the signs we pass every day a little more carefully as they don't always say what they meant to and can raise a smile or two along the way.
Sign in a florist shop:-
"If your relative is at death's door, our flowers will pull them through" Ho!Ho!
Clay-Day Fun
30 March 2013
Jane, Julie, Brenda, Kay, Christine, Marlene and their creations
On Wednesday 27 March the BVWI attended a ceramics workshop held in the village. Sandy Bywater took on the tough task of teaching a group of WI ladies how to make flowers in clay as part of the "Spring into Bestwood" project. The free session was great fun with lots of laughter alongside the serious job of making the flowers.
The finished items, if they survive the kiln, will form part of the ceramic garden installation displayed in the Dynamo House grounds on 12 & 13 April. On those days drop-in art workshops will be on offer to the public for £2 a head in the Dynamo House. See poster below for details.
Photos of the ladies enjoying their day are available in the gallery.
The finished items, if they survive the kiln, will form part of the ceramic garden installation displayed in the Dynamo House grounds on 12 & 13 April. On those days drop-in art workshops will be on offer to the public for £2 a head in the Dynamo House. See poster below for details.
Photos of the ladies enjoying their day are available in the gallery.
Carol's Convolvulus Flowers
18 March 2013
New Village Website Launched
17 March 2013
Check out the new Bestwood Village website launched by the Village Vision group. It is the place to go to find out everything you need to know about what is happening in the village. Check out the link we have posted on the far
right-hand-side of this page under our Village Links section.
right-hand-side of this page under our Village Links section.
Opportunity For All
16 March 2013
The Spring Into Bestwood Art Workshop on the 12th & 13th of April invites everyone to come along and discover the joys of the county park and their inner artist.
The BVWI will be helping this event go with a swing as they will be helping to (wo)man the Dynamo House Café on these days so that park visitors can enjoy their visit even more.
Please come along and take part even if you only come for a coffee & a cake at the café whilst you check out the ceramic garden installation.
The BVWI will be helping this event go with a swing as they will be helping to (wo)man the Dynamo House Café on these days so that park visitors can enjoy their visit even more.
Please come along and take part even if you only come for a coffee & a cake at the café whilst you check out the ceramic garden installation.
Patchy Progress
16 March 2013
Brenda's quilt project
Following the amazing talk on patchwork given by Claire Lyons at our February meeting our new president, Brenda Langsdale, was inspired to dig out a quilt she began about 15 years ago. She has now embarked on completing the project with some renewed enthusiasm.
She brought the "work in progress" along to the committee meeting looking for ideas on the finishing touches needed and to help explain to the less-crafty members how the process of hand-sewn patchwork is done. She, in turn, has now inspired a complete novice to have a go. The WI in action - passing on skills from one inspiring woman to another!
She brought the "work in progress" along to the committee meeting looking for ideas on the finishing touches needed and to help explain to the less-crafty members how the process of hand-sewn patchwork is done. She, in turn, has now inspired a complete novice to have a go. The WI in action - passing on skills from one inspiring woman to another!
Long-Distance Links
15 March 2013
Christ's card sent to Rose Green WI
Christa Gunby, one of our recent members, has links with a WI close to her previous home near Bognor Regis. Whenever she visits her old friends & neighbours there she keeps an eye on what their WI at Rose Green are doing, and visits the WI when her trips south coincide with their monthly meetings. When she discovered that Rose Green WI were celebrating their 50th birthday she couldn't let such a great milestone pass by. She made a beautiful card and it was sent to Rose Green WI with the best wishes of all the members of the Bestwood Village WI.
Perhaps in 2056 Rose Green WI will be able to send us a 50th birthday card to reciprocate the gesture!
Perhaps in 2056 Rose Green WI will be able to send us a 50th birthday card to reciprocate the gesture!
Bowled Over By Skittles Night
8 March 2012
Kay, June, Carol, Christa, Brenda, Carol, Marlene
Last night 7 intrepid members of BVWI took part in the Nottinghamshire Federation organised long-alley skittles night at the Embankment Club. Kept in good order by Wendy Richardson of the sports & leisure committee, 33 ladies had a wonderful night of fun and laughter as they tried their hand at this great pub game. The 3 rounds of skittles were interrupted by an enjoyable pie & pea supper. Because we had at least one BVWI member in each team we can proudly say we came first, (and second, third, fourth, fifth and last!). We also managed to bag three of the raffle prizes too. A great night out.
Extra Photos In Gallery
7 March 2013
There are a few extra photos from our February meeting in the gallery, featuring the lovely birthday cakes made by Julie and the amazing quilts & patchworks brought along by Claire Lyons.
Spring Arrives At Café
2 March 2013
Today at the Dynamo House Café it was so sunny that most people chose to sit outside to make the most of the great weather. The keep fit group started the trend by using the outdoor tables and other visitors followed suit.
We hope the good weather lasts through to the big relaunch of the Winding Engine House on the Easter weekend when we hope to open the café on both Saturday & Monday to help al the Bank Holiday visitors enjoy their day out in Bestwood Country Park.
Look out for posters around the village for details of the launch event.
We hope the good weather lasts through to the big relaunch of the Winding Engine House on the Easter weekend when we hope to open the café on both Saturday & Monday to help al the Bank Holiday visitors enjoy their day out in Bestwood Country Park.
Look out for posters around the village for details of the launch event.
Presidential Poll & Pilfered Patchworks
28 February 2013
The wedding "skip" quilt and the mother's gift quilt
Last night at our annual meeting we reviewed the year and readied ourselves for the year ahead. Listening to the annual report, which reminded us of all the amazing things we have been involved with in the last 12 months, it was hard to imagine how we had fit it all in.
We also voted in our new president for the next 12 months and said a big thank you to our outgoing presidents, Julie & Eileen. The elections, presided over by Helen Rose (trainee WI Adviser), resulted in Brenda Langsdale becoming President and we look forward to her year in office.
Our entertainment for the evening was provided by Claire Lyons. She lead us through a potted history of her family as she showed us a series of patchworks and quilts made by her grandmother, her mother and herself. Recounting stories of stolen shirt sleeves and bargains with Chinese restaurant owners for tiger-striped curtains, we enjoyed sharing her trip down memory lane and the patchworks & quilts were amazing pieces of art. A few other photos of the meeting are in the gallery.
We also voted in our new president for the next 12 months and said a big thank you to our outgoing presidents, Julie & Eileen. The elections, presided over by Helen Rose (trainee WI Adviser), resulted in Brenda Langsdale becoming President and we look forward to her year in office.
Our entertainment for the evening was provided by Claire Lyons. She lead us through a potted history of her family as she showed us a series of patchworks and quilts made by her grandmother, her mother and herself. Recounting stories of stolen shirt sleeves and bargains with Chinese restaurant owners for tiger-striped curtains, we enjoyed sharing her trip down memory lane and the patchworks & quilts were amazing pieces of art. A few other photos of the meeting are in the gallery.
Friend Of Bestwood Country Park Meeting
18 February 2013
The monthly meeting of the Friends of Bestwood Country Park will be happening this Thursday 21 February. In the meantime you could check out some of the amazing photos of our wonderful country park on the Bestwood Country Park flickr site. Just click here.
PROGRAMME 2013 PUBLISHED
18 February 2012
Details of the programme of events for the year ahead have now been added to the web site. Click here. Paper copies for members to keep in their handbags will be available after the outcome of the Feb elections for President are known.
Red Nose Recipe
11 February 2013
With Red Nose Day fast approaching, on Friday 15th March, we thought you might need a quick & simple recipe to make to help raise funds at your cake sale.
These coconut macaroons are so simple you can make them in minutes and let the kids help out without heading for disaster.
Check out the recipe in our recipe library.
These coconut macaroons are so simple you can make them in minutes and let the kids help out without heading for disaster.
Check out the recipe in our recipe library.
Carol's Coffee Club
10 February 2013
Much admired "Chicken Scratching" napkins
Today's Coffee Club meeting at Carol R's house was buzzing with energy as everyone exchanged their news and views over drinks and a wonderful selection of cakes. The eight guests were thrilled to see the copy of Woman's World magazine displaying our "High Tea " photo on page 6 as part of a WI promotional campaign advert. A copy will be available to view at our February meeting as the current copy on line is last year's edition.
Plans were being hatched too for a secret campaign of our own this summer. It will be something to brighten up the village but we can't say more than that. Sorry to be so woolly but all will become clear soon . We could tell you more about it but then we would have to kill you!
Plans were being hatched too for a secret campaign of our own this summer. It will be something to brighten up the village but we can't say more than that. Sorry to be so woolly but all will become clear soon . We could tell you more about it but then we would have to kill you!
Hot Off The Press
4 February 2013
The Dynamo House Café is getting lots of coverage in the press lately. The Hucknall & Bulwell Dispatch mentioned the Local Heritage Day last week and this week when it was rescheduled. Look out for us next in an article in the NG15 and NG5 magazines which are freely distributed around the area. Check out Carol at the back of the photo!
Café in the Snow
26 January 2013
The Café covered in snow
This morning the staff & volunteers at Bestwood Country Park worked wonders to clear paths and car parks and open the Dynamo House Café as normal in the deep and crisp & even snow that had fallen overnight. Unfortunately the Local Heritage event advertised below had to be postponed until next week as the lady running it couldn't get over to the village due to the weather. This will now run next week.
However, for those that did make it a welcome of hot drinks and home-baked cakes made the trek well worthwhile. Dog walkers, sledgers and walkers alike were glad to thaw out over a drink and cake. We hope to see them all again next week when Holly will be on hand to record all their local stories for her history project.
However, for those that did make it a welcome of hot drinks and home-baked cakes made the trek well worthwhile. Dog walkers, sledgers and walkers alike were glad to thaw out over a drink and cake. We hope to see them all again next week when Holly will be on hand to record all their local stories for her history project.
Paper Roses...
24 January 2012
Last night at the WI monthly meeting Sheila stepped in at short notice and saved the day by teaching us all how to make not paper roses but paper water lilies. You can see some photos of the class in action in the gallery. Next month will be our annual meeting as it is our birthday month and we will be voting for committee & President.
Local Heritage Event
23 January 2013
On Saturday, January 26, between 10am and 12 noon there will be a special heritage event happening at the Dynamo House Café on Park Road in Bestwood Village, NG6 8ZA.
The event works in two ways. Anyone can come along and find out a little more about the local history of the village. However, if you lived locally or worked at the colliery or iron works you can add your memories to the archive for future generations to enjoy. If you have photographs, documents or items of interest please bring them along too. They can all be used to help gather in our local history and save it for posterity. Copies can be made of anything needed for the archive so you won't have to give up your precious originals.
Of course you also need to bring along a few pennies to buy yourself a nice hot drink and a home-baked cake from the café whilst you mull over the memories.
Photos of the day will be available in the gallery soon after the event.
The event works in two ways. Anyone can come along and find out a little more about the local history of the village. However, if you lived locally or worked at the colliery or iron works you can add your memories to the archive for future generations to enjoy. If you have photographs, documents or items of interest please bring them along too. They can all be used to help gather in our local history and save it for posterity. Copies can be made of anything needed for the archive so you won't have to give up your precious originals.
Of course you also need to bring along a few pennies to buy yourself a nice hot drink and a home-baked cake from the café whilst you mull over the memories.
Photos of the day will be available in the gallery soon after the event.
White-out Causes Lock-out!
18 January 2013
The Dynamo House Café will not be operating tomorrow, 19 January, as we can not guarantee that the key holder will be able to get over to the site to let us all in. So, if you are going into the park for a frosty walk, to build a snowman or to have a snowball fight, please take a flask as the café will not be open to thaw you out with a hot drink this week. Normal service should be resumed next Saturday 26th with the added bonus of a special local history event - more to come on that later.
It's 5 o'clock somewhere...
14 January 2013
At yesterday's Coffee Club meeting several of the ladies were tempted by the offer of an early afternoon sherry rather than a cuppa. Eleven guests joined Kay for cake & conversation between 3pm and 5pm. For one of them it was quite a special day. Barbara T was celebrating a birthday, so along with the usual offerings of scones with jam & cream, coconut macaroons and double ginger cake, there was also a birthday cake, complete with candle & card. Along with a lesson in how to make your own pillowcase-style cushion covers and updates on village flood alleviation schemes, talk turned to scone recipes and Carol's favourite fail-safe recipe is now posted up in the library for you to enjoy.
NG15 Magazine
12 January 2013
Look out for a mention of the Bestwood Village WI's involvement in the Friends of Bestwood Park project to set up & run the Dynamo House Café in the next edition of the NG15, NG5 & NG6 magazines. We have sent off information and a few photos to the ladies that run these local magazines and they have said they will put an article in a forthcoming edition. If you don't get one posted through your door you can pick one up from the Griffin's Head or Hucknall library.
Dynamic Dynamo House
5 January 2013
We had another very successful morning at the Dynamo House Café today. Lots of people popped in to see us following the mention of the café on the Village Vision facebook page. Thank you to everyone who came along. Carol's raspberry & white chocolate muffins were a triumph. For the recipe click HERE. We hope to see you all again next weekend.
Ballroom Glitz
1 January 2013
A couple of our WI ladies were spotted last night at the Bestwood Village Social Club New Year's Eve event which included live music from the band "Ballroom Glitz".
Both Kay & Carol R were enjoying the celebrations and dancing the night away to the hits of the 70's. They apparently deny knowing them from the first time around but we are not so sure about that as they seemed to know all the words.
We hope you had a great night wherever you were celebrating the arrival of 2013.
Band Ballroom Glitz pictured opposite.
Both Kay & Carol R were enjoying the celebrations and dancing the night away to the hits of the 70's. They apparently deny knowing them from the first time around but we are not so sure about that as they seemed to know all the words.
We hope you had a great night wherever you were celebrating the arrival of 2013.
Band Ballroom Glitz pictured opposite.
New Year's Resolution
31 December 2012
Today Bestwood Village WI have leapt into the 21 century by joining twitter and facebook. We promised ourselves we would do this in readiness for a great year ahead in 2013. To check out our accounts in both these social media formats click on the icons on the right hand side of our home page. Please link to us or like us so you can receive updates on everything we get involved in. Maybe your New Year's resolution can be to make the connection and keep in touch more.
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Last Few Community Calendars For Sale
29 December 2012
There are only about half a dozen of the Bestwood Village Community Calendars available for sale now from the initial 250 printed. You can pick up one of them at either the Dynamo House Café on Saturday morning 10am - 12noon or at the Post Office in the village.
For those of you that already have one we hope you manage to fill 2013 with lots of great opportunities.
Happy New Year.
For those of you that already have one we hope you manage to fill 2013 with lots of great opportunities.
Happy New Year.
Papplewick Pumping Station In Steam
25 December 2012
Papplewick Pumping Station
If you are looking for somewhere to go next weekend to blow away the Christmas cobwebs you could take a trip to Papplewick Pumping Station. It will be in steam on Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th December between 12 noon and 4pm. It is a magnificent building and with the pump engine in steam is even more worthy of a visit.
Obviously we would rather you went there on Sunday and came to visit the Bestwood Country Park on Saturday and came to have a drink with us at the Dynamo House Cafe between 10am and noon. Either way, have a wonderful Christmas break and we look forward to seeing you in 2013.
Obviously we would rather you went there on Sunday and came to visit the Bestwood Country Park on Saturday and came to have a drink with us at the Dynamo House Cafe between 10am and noon. Either way, have a wonderful Christmas break and we look forward to seeing you in 2013.
Coffee Club At Carol's
23 December 2012
The next meeting of the Coffee Club has been hijacked by Christmas cheer and converted into a mulled wine & mince pies afternoon. This will take place at 3pm on 29 December at Carol's house. All members are encouraged to bring a friend along to meet the WI ladies in the relaxed atmosphere of this event. If you need the address details they are on the invite slip in your November Hornblower magazine or email us via the contact form. Kay will be bringing along everything that got left behind at the party to be reclaimed, so if you are missing a plate, bowl, piece of cutlery or table cloth remember to ask Kay if she has it.
Christmas Sing-Along
20 December 2012
The table decorations made by Christa
On Wednesday 19th December Bestwood Village WI held their Christmas Party. Guests were invited from the other Plains Group WIs along with Ann-Marie from the Support Team and Maureen Ashby, the Nottinghamshire Country Chairman. Everyone was treated to a lovely buffet supper put together by our members which was liberally washed down with the rosé wine we so enjoyed at the wine tasting meeting back in the summer. The evening's entertainment came in the form of a local "boy band", the Knights of Harmony. They treated us to a selection of silly ditties and seasonal songs all wrapped up in a humorous package and delivered with a smile and a twinkle in their eye. It has to be said that the "Twelve days of Christmas" will never be viewed in the same way again! After a hearty rendition of Jerusalem and the opening of secret Santa gifts everyone went off home no doubt humming "Five Babychams...". Thanks to all involved in making it a wonderful party. There are some photos in the gallery.
Party At Parkdale
14 December 2012
Wine Chocolates and music - what more could you need!
On the most auspicious date of 12/12/12 Parkdale (Carlton) WI held their Christmas party. Carol & Kay went along to represent Bestwood Village WI and were treated to a wonderful evening of friendship & entertainment. The friendship came in the form of the welcome from Parkdale WI members and the chance to meet up for a chat with members of other WIs on the guest list. The entertainment was supplied by Nessa & the Monsters, a local band who gave us a selection of songs including "You're So Vain" , "The Letter", "Son Of A Preacher Man" and, "Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves". Somehow we knew all the words!
Santa's sack provided a lucky dip present and it seemed that the raffle had enough prizes for everyone to be a winner. The buffet was an amazing spread and we all went away happy and well fed. Thanks to all at Parkdale for a great party.
There are a few photos of the night in the gallery.
Santa's sack provided a lucky dip present and it seemed that the raffle had enough prizes for everyone to be a winner. The buffet was an amazing spread and we all went away happy and well fed. Thanks to all at Parkdale for a great party.
There are a few photos of the night in the gallery.
Light Entertainment
7 December 2012
Tonight the Bestwood Village Christmas lights were turned on as part of a fun event for all the family. The Community Centre was the hub of all the activities where villagers could get free mulled wine and mince pies, or soft drinks and chocolates. There were also stalls selling sweets and home-made shortbread decorations organised by the Boys Brigade.
The WI were present as always, this time selling home-made craft items such as tree decorations, knitted dollies and hats & scarves. There were also the last few of the Bestwood Village Community Calendar on sale on their stall.
Before the big count down the Hawthorne Primary school children entertained everyone by singing a few songs and playing their ukuleles. The Black Diamonds Brass Band also entertained the crowds outside with seasonal tunes.
The lights were switched on at 7pm by village stalwart Jack Ashworth. He was offered the job as a thank you from all the community groups in the village who know just how hard he works to make sure events like this, and many others, go smoothly. There are more lights than ever this year so pop along & take a look.
There are a few more photos of the event in the gallery.
The WI were present as always, this time selling home-made craft items such as tree decorations, knitted dollies and hats & scarves. There were also the last few of the Bestwood Village Community Calendar on sale on their stall.
Before the big count down the Hawthorne Primary school children entertained everyone by singing a few songs and playing their ukuleles. The Black Diamonds Brass Band also entertained the crowds outside with seasonal tunes.
The lights were switched on at 7pm by village stalwart Jack Ashworth. He was offered the job as a thank you from all the community groups in the village who know just how hard he works to make sure events like this, and many others, go smoothly. There are more lights than ever this year so pop along & take a look.
There are a few more photos of the event in the gallery.
Denman Jam Festival
2 December 2012
The Jam competitions were hotly contested
There were no jams on the 2 hour journey down to Oxfordshire today for 4 of our members but plenty of jam on show when they arrived. Carol drove Kay, Sue & Julie down to Denman College in Marcham to check out the Christmas fayre and jam festival. Along with the jam contest there were also rooms full of stalls selling craft items & wonderful foods along with entertainments from hand bell ringers, a pianist and a pop band. All four ladies managed to find something to buy - some more than others!
Unfortunately Santa ran out of presents before they had time to visit his grotto, but they did manage to have a quick chat with Ruth Bond whilst fortifying themselves with soup and sandwiches. There are some photos in the gallery
Unfortunately Santa ran out of presents before they had time to visit his grotto, but they did manage to have a quick chat with Ruth Bond whilst fortifying themselves with soup and sandwiches. There are some photos in the gallery
8 December - Dynamo Café Closed For Training
1 December 2012
Unfortunately the café at the Dynamo House beside the Bestwood Colliery
Winding House will be closed next Saturday. Vital first aid training of
volunteer staff will be taking place from 10am to 2pm so the doors will
be closed to visitors for one week. Be assured, the café will be open for
visitors again on Saturday 15th December and will remain open every
Saturday morning throughout the Christmas period and into the New Year.
Come along between 10am and 12 noon for hot & cold drinks, snacks
and sometimes home-baked cakes all at reasonable prices. All money
raised at the café goes to the Friends of Bestwood Country Park who use
it to fund extra attractions in the park such as the bird feeding
stations.
Oh Yes It Is!
26 November 2012
Surely I'm worth more than 5 magic beans!
Our November monthly meeting is a talk by David Darby on the history of the pantomime which should prove to be a giggle.
The raffle theme is "Local Food" so if you have some home grown or home-made produce, or something picked up at a local farm shop or market you could bring it along to donate as a prize.
We will be sorting out the food for the Christmas party too so have a think about what you might like to contribute to the buffet table - there will be a food list available. You might also want to be on the look out for a small gift (under £5) to give as your secret Santa present at the party.
The raffle theme is "Local Food" so if you have some home grown or home-made produce, or something picked up at a local farm shop or market you could bring it along to donate as a prize.
We will be sorting out the food for the Christmas party too so have a think about what you might like to contribute to the buffet table - there will be a food list available. You might also want to be on the look out for a small gift (under £5) to give as your secret Santa present at the party.
Christmas Lights Switch-on
25 November 2012
Some of the gang that will be for sale on the night
Our WI will have a Christmas decorations stall at the village Christmas lights switching on event being held on Friday 7 December. Several of our members have been busy knitting these snowmen and little people dolls will be
available to buy on the night. The stall wlil also be selling sparkly bangle tree decorations, felt tree decorations, bangle bags, felt stockings, rubber stamps, Christmas cards with a
local feel and of course the Bestwood Village Community Calendar for 2013.
Come along to the Community Centre at 6.30pm. There will be free mulled wine & mice pies for the grown ups and soft drinks and chocolates for the kids. There will be music from a school choir and the Black Diamonds Brass Band and a sing-a-long for those in the mood to join in. We look forward to seeing you there.
Come along to the Community Centre at 6.30pm. There will be free mulled wine & mice pies for the grown ups and soft drinks and chocolates for the kids. There will be music from a school choir and the Black Diamonds Brass Band and a sing-a-long for those in the mood to join in. We look forward to seeing you there.
Body Shop Visits The Coffee Club
19 November 2012
This Saturday (24th November) Christa will be holding a meeting of the Coffee Club at her house. There will be the added bonus of being able to pick up a few Christmas presents as a representative from the Body Shop will be on hand taking orders for products and gift packs. With only a few shopping days until Christmas (Click here to check exactly how many) you may be glad of the chance to browse a few ideas with a drink in one hand and a cake in the other. The kettle will be on between 10am and 12 noon. If you need details of Chista's address please contact us through the "contact us" form or drop Kay an email. See you there.
John's Winter Garden
13 November 2012
John Stirland in full flow
Tonight 4 ladies from Bestwood Village WI attended Nuthall WI's monthly meeting. The talk was "The Winter Garden" and was given by BBC gardener, and local lad, John Stirland. He was born on a farm in Nuthall, and recalled attending scouts in the very room we were gathered in.
As always he delivered his illustrated talk with knowledge and enthusiasm and a good deal of humour. I don't think any of the audience will forget the name of the white stemmed bramble Rubus Cockburnianus in a hurry!
Yet again we received a very warm welcome and managed to come away with a raffle prize. Another great night out - well done Nuthall WI.
As always he delivered his illustrated talk with knowledge and enthusiasm and a good deal of humour. I don't think any of the audience will forget the name of the white stemmed bramble Rubus Cockburnianus in a hurry!
Yet again we received a very warm welcome and managed to come away with a raffle prize. Another great night out - well done Nuthall WI.
Woodthorpe Fashion Show
12 November 2012
The Models taking a bow at the end of the show
Tonight Woodthorpe WI invited members of the Plains Group to a fashion show at their meeting venue - the Church of the Good Shepherd on Thackery's Lane. We were all treated to an array of separates modelled by members & friends of the WI. All the items were later available to try on and buy with 10% of takings being fed back to the WI. The 8 members of Bestwood Village that came along certainly made an effort to relaunch the failing economy! They also managed to win a couple of prizes in the raffle. A great night out - well done Woodthorpe WI.
Gedling WI Get Crafty
6 November 2012
The finished wreath, which was later raffled off.
This evening Gedling WI's monthly meeting attracted a bigger crowd than normal. The ladies from other Plains Group WIs had come along to see Steve Routledge of Floral Media, Caunton, make a decorative live Christmas wreath. With moss and foliage collected from the garden and a little help from a florist from the audience, he conjured up an evergreen wreath anyone would be proud to hang on their door for the festive season. The 3 ladies from Bestwood Village WI that went along had a great time. They enjoyed the demonstration, the home-made gingerbread man and rhubarb cake and the chance to chat with Plains group friends. We have photos of the evening in the gallery.
Bonfire Night Sell-out
4 November 2012
The WI sweets & treats stall completely sold out this year. The selection of chocolate apples, toffee apples, marshmallow sparklers and bonfire toffee lollipops were a real hit and by 8pm they had all been purchased by villagers visiting the St Mark's hall refreshments area before & after the firework display. There are a couple of photos of the stall in the gallery.
Both the WI stall and the St Mark's cake stall also had the Community Calendar on sale. Your next chance to buy one will be the Christmas tree light switch on which is kicking off at 6.30pm on 7 December at the Community Centre.
Both the WI stall and the St Mark's cake stall also had the Community Calendar on sale. Your next chance to buy one will be the Christmas tree light switch on which is kicking off at 6.30pm on 7 December at the Community Centre.
Dynamo House Café Now Open All Year
The Café situated in the Dynamo House adjacent to the Winding House at the Bestwood Country Park is now to remain open on Saturdays all year round. The Friends of Bestwood Country Park, along with volunteers from other local groups such as the WI and the Warren Action Group, will be manning the café from 10am 'til noon every Saturday. This opening time coincides with the Winding House volunteers being on site, either carrying out maintenance or taking tours around the heritage site.
Please drop in for a coffee, tea, hot chocolate, biscuit or cake. The prices are very reasonable and the welcome always warm. Check out the photos in the gallery.
Please drop in for a coffee, tea, hot chocolate, biscuit or cake. The prices are very reasonable and the welcome always warm. Check out the photos in the gallery.
Community Calendars For Sale
30 October 2012
Just £3.50 each while stocks last
The Bestwood Village Community Calendar, brainchild of Carol Hart BVWI, is on sale NOW. All 10 charity and community groups involved with the calendar will have copies to sell to their members and the public at just £3.50. This means that for each calendar sold the group selling it will receive a £1 donation to their funds. It is a win : win! You end up with a great calendar giving details of active groups in the village & their events throughout the year, and the groups end up with more money in their coffers to fund these great events. Please make sure you buy one. They will be on sale at the Bonfire Night celebrations from stalls in St Mark's Church, and at the Christmas Tree Lighting Up ceremony on stalls inside the Community Centre. Otherwise contact the WI via the contact us form here to order one.
No Surprises At The Music Quiz
27 October 2012
Guess what? Yes, yet again we didn't win the music quiz. The Bestwood team of Julie, Carol R, Tanya & Kay managed to accumulate 59 points out of the 82 on offer which did not come near to the winning score of 77. Despite that we had a great night out at Oxton village hall with good company, taxing questions and a lot of laughs - mostly at our bad guesses! Next year we will have brushed up on our operettas. There are some photos from the night in the gallery.
A Second Chance To See...
26 October 2012
In the Spring we had a wonderful talk at our Open evening from the BBC TV & Radio gardener John Stirland. See photos in the gallery
He is now booked to give another talk to Nuthall & District WI on the evening of Tuesday 13 November. Members of other WI groups have been invited along to swell the ranks and for just £3 you can enjoy the talk along with light refreshments. We so enjoyed the talk he gave us back in March that this is sure to be a popular reprise opportunity.
He is now booked to give another talk to Nuthall & District WI on the evening of Tuesday 13 November. Members of other WI groups have been invited along to swell the ranks and for just £3 you can enjoy the talk along with light refreshments. We so enjoyed the talk he gave us back in March that this is sure to be a popular reprise opportunity.
Altered Images
25 October 2012
Denise alongside her colour guides and beauty products
Last night the WI, including our two new members (Julia & Christine), was treated to a virtual make-over by image consultant Denise Raynor. Her illustrated talk included analysis of body shapes advice on styles that compliment them. She also talked about choosing colours that compliment your natural complexion, hair & eyes and the importance of knowing your clothing personality, The audience was very attentive to all the points if a little self conscious about their choice of attire for the evening! After the talk Denise answered questions and gave 1-2-1 advice on shapes & colours. We will all be paying a little more attention to our appearance in the next few weeks and hopefully making some more informed choices in the shops.
Village Vision Launch
20 October 2012
This afternoon between 2 and 4pm the Village Vision Plan was officially launched at the Community Centre. Copies of the 10 year plan were available to read and take away although a copy will be delivered to each house in the village over the next month. The event was formally opened by Jack Ashworth, Chair of the Village Vision group, and was supported by Councillor Chris Barnfather of Gedling BC and Mark Spencer, MP for Sherwood, who both gave very encouraging speeches. Tea and home-baked cakes were provided by the Bestwood Village WI, from funds donated by the Village Vision group. A celebratory cake, iced with the Village Vision logo, was cut and shared amongst those attending the meeting. Photos in gallery.
Proof copies of the Bestwood Village Community Calendar were on view and the sale copies should be available next weekend at £3.50.
Proof copies of the Bestwood Village Community Calendar were on view and the sale copies should be available next weekend at £3.50.
Autumn Meeting Was A Winner
12 October 2012
Tonight's Autumn Meeting of the Nottinghamshire Federation was a real winner all round. The new venue was a success, despite being in the middle of an industrial estate. Inside the welcome was warm and the mood expectant. Maureen was resplendent in her new chain of office which we all hope made her feel better about having to go up in a glider to earn the sponsorship to pay for it!
The speakers in the first half were all on good form and we loved the Canada Cup winning Limmerick which Maureen read out. Awards were presented to several WIs and individuals and some were photographed for our gallery.
In the second half we were entertained by "12 to the Bar" with music and an occasional joke. They evoked a short conga round the aisles at one point and lots of toe tapping throughout.
A great night out - roll on ACM 17 April 2013.
The speakers in the first half were all on good form and we loved the Canada Cup winning Limmerick which Maureen read out. Awards were presented to several WIs and individuals and some were photographed for our gallery.
In the second half we were entertained by "12 to the Bar" with music and an occasional joke. They evoked a short conga round the aisles at one point and lots of toe tapping throughout.
A great night out - roll on ACM 17 April 2013.
Dynamo Café Open Again
5 October 2012
Tomorrow morning between 10am and 12 noon the Dynamo House will be the place to visit for a coffee & a cake, or tea and a flapjack. Carol & Kay will be serving up drinks & snacks for visitors to the park. Please drop in and support them as this may be the last weekend the café can open as we are running short of volunteer first aiders to attend the sessions. Not that we intend needing a first aider but H&S rules always apply. If you can help out please contact us via the "contact us" page.
Be Inspired To Write
27 September 2012
Gloria explains all with Cassie looking on
Last night, at our monthly meeting, we were given a personal insight into the world of creative writing by local author, Gloria Morgan.
Popping over to see us from Kimberley, Gloria talked us through her thought processes when imagining, researching and nurturing her books into life. We learned how she uses both time and place to breathe life into her stories through her characters. Her research is thorough. When writing her book "Kinmers Lea" she made a visit to the battlefield at Hastings to help her understand what her characters would have been through. She also explained her logic in choosing to set her 'whodunit' "The Ducking Stool" in a WWII village seen through the eyes of evacuated children, and told us how complex planning out the chronology of a mystery story can be. Now we can't wait to read it to find out who did it, how and why.
Cassie, her rescue collie, almost stole the show with her good manners and patience. It seems she also knows something about a good tale as she is the 'author' of her own story "Cassie - the Story of a Rescue Dog". What a modern dog - she even has a blog.
It's a good job that our October raffle prizes are stationery as we have all been inspired to write. Let me see; "It was a dark and stormy night when........" - perhaps not!
Popping over to see us from Kimberley, Gloria talked us through her thought processes when imagining, researching and nurturing her books into life. We learned how she uses both time and place to breathe life into her stories through her characters. Her research is thorough. When writing her book "Kinmers Lea" she made a visit to the battlefield at Hastings to help her understand what her characters would have been through. She also explained her logic in choosing to set her 'whodunit' "The Ducking Stool" in a WWII village seen through the eyes of evacuated children, and told us how complex planning out the chronology of a mystery story can be. Now we can't wait to read it to find out who did it, how and why.
Cassie, her rescue collie, almost stole the show with her good manners and patience. It seems she also knows something about a good tale as she is the 'author' of her own story "Cassie - the Story of a Rescue Dog". What a modern dog - she even has a blog.
It's a good job that our October raffle prizes are stationery as we have all been inspired to write. Let me see; "It was a dark and stormy night when........" - perhaps not!
Dates For Your Diary
23 September 2012
Please make a note of these in your diary if you are thinking of coming along:-
Our next meeting - This coming Wednesday 26th September starting at 7.30pm - Creative Writing talk by Gloria Morgan
Coffee Club Meeting - Tanya's House Thursday, 25th October starting at 6.30pm
Gedling WI Christmas wreath-making event - Tuesday, 6th November starting at 7.30pm @ Gedling Memorial Hall
Our next meeting - This coming Wednesday 26th September starting at 7.30pm - Creative Writing talk by Gloria Morgan
Coffee Club Meeting - Tanya's House Thursday, 25th October starting at 6.30pm
Gedling WI Christmas wreath-making event - Tuesday, 6th November starting at 7.30pm @ Gedling Memorial Hall
Dynamo House Helpers
22 September 2012
This morning Carol & Kay gave the WI bunting an airing as they helped out the Friends of Bestwood Country Park with catering duties at the Dynamo House Café. Between the hours of 10am and 12 noon they served up teas, coffees, hot chocolates and home-baked cakes to dog walkers, Nordic walkers, families visiting the winding house and anyone else who was using the park.
Record numbers came through the door and they almost ran out of milk as they served up drinks and snacks throughout their shift. When the sessions at the winding house end in a fortnight's time the success of the refreshments will be assessed to see if it can be
repeated next year. Fingers crossed that it can. More photos in the gallery.
Record numbers came through the door and they almost ran out of milk as they served up drinks and snacks throughout their shift. When the sessions at the winding house end in a fortnight's time the success of the refreshments will be assessed to see if it can be
repeated next year. Fingers crossed that it can. More photos in the gallery.
Welcome Walk
16 September 2012
The walkers assembling before they set out
Today saw our first ever BVWI Welcome Walk take place. Ladies from the Nottinghamshire WIs were invited to the village to walk either of the 2 routes set up by us in and around the village. The short walk took in the Mill Lakes and the Winding House, whilst the long walk took in the Country Park. 13 Guests from 5 WIs came along and walked with 5 of our members and a prospective new member and her dog. Afterwards 12 of the party came back to Kay's house for a well deserved lunch served up by her and our President, Eileen. A good time was had by all and this walk will be the final event in our Big Walk: Little Splash challenge.
For a couple of other photos check out the gallery.
For a couple of other photos check out the gallery.
Record Numbers
13 September 2012
Visitors, Julia, Helen & Sally, in the heart of the conversation
Last night Nell & June opened their house to a Coffee Club meeting. It seemed that everyone wanted to come along and things started to get critical when they ran out of chairs in the living room. However, rather than expanding into the conservatory everyone preferred to crowd into the living room where the atmosphere was a buzz of conversation.
A record 16 ladies attended, including 3 who were trying out the WI to see if they liked it. We hope to see them at our next monthly meeting on 26 September when Gloria Morgan will be explaining how to go about writing that novel that is supposedly inside every one of us.
More photos in the gallery by clicking HERE.
A record 16 ladies attended, including 3 who were trying out the WI to see if they liked it. We hope to see them at our next monthly meeting on 26 September when Gloria Morgan will be explaining how to go about writing that novel that is supposedly inside every one of us.
More photos in the gallery by clicking HERE.
WI Help To Walk Robin Hood Way
9 September 2012
This morning at 10am Carol & Kay set off on a walk from Kimberley to Bestwood Village to help raise money for the Adult Cystic Fibrosis Unit at Nottingham City Hospital. The challenge was to have walkers complete every section of the Robin Hood Way so that all 105 miles of the route were walked in one day. The weather was glorious and the walk was a real pleasure as it passed through rolling countryside with amazing views. This walk gave Carol & Kay the chance to add a few more miles to the 209 mile Big Walk: Little Splash challenge too.
A few other photos of the route are in the gallery.
A few other photos of the route are in the gallery.
Coffee Club News
8 September 2012
The next meeting of the Coffee Club will be at Nell & June's house on Wednesday 12 September starting at 7pm. Come along for a drink and a chat. You could pick up your copy of Hornblower ahead of the next meeting. By the way, the next meeting will be on 26 September when Gloria Morgan will be talking to us about "creative writing". She will cover all aspects of writing that novel that is allegedly inside us all. She will be helping us set the story in both space & time with advice on the geography and historical setting of a novel. Remember that the raffle theme is "Tax Your Brain" so prize donations of quiz books, "who-done-it" stories, games, puzzles and other brain-teasers will all be welcome. There will also be a sale table of Gloria's work so break open the piggy bank!
Feasting At The Feastival
5 September 2012
Here you see Carol rubbing shoulders with Alex James.
Carol & Kay took themselves off to Kingham in Oxfordshire for the weekend to visit Janie Oliver's "Big Feastival 2012" - a combination of food heaven and a music festival. They camped over for the three day event and enjoyed tasting artisan food from all over the UK whilst being entertained by cookery demos, Q&A sessions with celebrity chefs and music from the likes of Texas, Razorlight, J P Cooper and Paloma Faith. At one point the host of the event, Alex James (Blur bass guitarist turned artisan cheese-maker) and Jamie Oliver joined musicians The Producers on stage for a "jam" session - How WI is that! More photos in the gallery
Maybe next year we can get a WI coach trip along.
Maybe next year we can get a WI coach trip along.
Ticket To Ride
31 August 2012
Julie, Tanya & Carol took advantage of the opportunity to try out horse riding in the village. The WI had been contacted by the riding school offering a taster session and the three intrepid ladies decided to have a go. The photos of their adventure are in the gallery.
Bestwood Village Banner Is Handed In
20 August 2012
The Bestwood Village section of the group banner is complete and has been handed in ready to be sewn together with the other 6 sections into the Plains Group banner.
For a larger image please click here.
For a larger image please click here.
Photo Shoot
19 August 2012
The photo shoot took place today for the Bestwood Village WI page of the community calendar. 6 of the committee gathered at Kay's house in their best summer frocks and hats to pose for the shot which will end up, with a little help from Mark and his computer wizardry, seeing them taking their tea high above the Nottingham sky-line.
The sun shone for just a few minutes after 6pm and allowed them to take a dozen or so shots before dashing behind a cloud again. Although the pictures don't look much now, hopefully one of them will end up as the final shot for the calendar.
The sun shone for just a few minutes after 6pm and allowed them to take a dozen or so shots before dashing behind a cloud again. Although the pictures don't look much now, hopefully one of them will end up as the final shot for the calendar.
Coffee Collective
18 August 2012
The August meting of the Coffee Club at Eileen's house proved to be very popular. It was held in the evening to allow the working ladies to attend and it attracted 12 guests during the evening. Everyone had a wonderful time talking and enjoying the goodies on offer.
The photo shows some of the coffee collective happy in their natural environment!
The photo shows some of the coffee collective happy in their natural environment!
Coffee Club
9 August 2012
The next date for your diary is the meeting of the Coffee Club which will be on Monday 13th August. The venue is Eileen's house and for those unsure of the location you can get details from the secretary by email on secretary@bestwoodvillagewi.org.uk or by using the contact us form. The kettle will be on a slow boil from 7pm onwards so please drop in and enjoy the cake & conversation, we would love to see you.
Litter Pick Ladies
30 July 2012
Sheila, Alistair, Rhoda, Carol, Jack, Kay & Mark
On Saturday 28th July a small band of volunteers took part in the Bestwood Village Litter Pick. Of the 7 willing helpers that turned up 3 were from the WI and 2 more their family members! The main street areas of the village were cleared of bottles, cans, food wrappers, cigarette packets and paper litter. Altogether 10 black bags of rubbish were collected in the 2 hours and Gedling Borough Council were happy to take 7of them away for disposal whilst the other 3 were recycled. Thanks also go to GBC for the loan of the litter picker poles, the gloves and the hi-vis vests. Thanks also go to St Mark's for use of the church for the tea and Sheila's lovely home-made scones afterwards.
Hopefully the streets will now look a little tidier for a few weeks.
Hopefully the streets will now look a little tidier for a few weeks.
Bowled Over
27 July 2012
The Bestwood Village WI monthly meeting was an outdoor event in July and thankfully the weather was fine. Sixteen ladies went along to a bowls lesson at the Bestwood Workshops Bowls Club given by 3 members of the club, Lol, Bert & Ron. They set out the basic rules of the game and explained how the curl of the bowls was achieved before letting the ladies loose on the green for some practice.
Giggles and cheers were heard coming from the bowling green for an hour or so before everyone retired to the Community Centre for a well deserved cup of tea and some cake. There are photos in the gallery.
Giggles and cheers were heard coming from the bowling green for an hour or so before everyone retired to the Community Centre for a well deserved cup of tea and some cake. There are photos in the gallery.
Sensible Shoes
23 July 2012
Don't forget that you will need to wear your flat shoes for the bowling evening on Wednesday as the green keepers tend to get a bit excited if you try to walk on the grass in your stilettos! We will meet outside the Community Centre at 7.15pm.
Also remember that the raffle theme this month is "On Holiday".
Also remember that the raffle theme this month is "On Holiday".
Dog Days Of Summer
22 July 2012
Linda on the WI information stand
Today Kay from Bestwood Village WI helped out on the Notts Federation of WIs information stand at the Notts & Yorkshire Boxer Dog Rescue's Fun Dog Show. The event, held at the Southwell Rugby Club between 10am & 4pm, enjoyed fantastic sunny weather which brought out the crowds. Linda & Kay sold raffle tickets and gave out contact information for WI groups in the county and discussed the type of activities they get up to. They also met some lovely dogs and their owners who's lively conversations helped the day whiz by very quickly. They were also on hand when an emergency safety pin was required - you know you can always rely on the WI.
Trustees' Treat
21 June 2012
Last night the Trustees of the Nottinghamshire Federation of WIs treated the staff & volunteers who sit on various sub-committees and support groups to a night out. They all donned their sensible shoes and made their way to a field at Gibsmere Farm, near Bleasby for a barbecue. There they found a welcoming Pimms or fruit juice followed by a wonderful BBQ, featuring locally sourced sausages, burgers & chicken drumsticks with accompanying salads & sauces. The desserts were pretty special too, as arrangements had been made for the ingredients of the fruit salads to cancel out any calories in the cheesecake, mousse or cream Pavlova! After the meal various games were played on the field with the champions earning certificates. However, the real winners were all the ladies who came along and took part and had so much fun. You can see photos of the event in the gallery.
Trip Has Universal Appeal
12 July 2012
One of the smaller telescopes on the site
Earlier today a Notts Federation trip out to the radio telescopes at Jodrell Bank in Cheshire took place. A coach full of ladies and gentlemen made their way through wonderful Derbyshire countryside in some rare summer sunshine. The time at Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre included a self-guided tour around the base of the Lovell telescope and interactive displays in the Planet Pavilion and the Space Pavilion. The café was a popular destination too! Sadly the recent wet weather had necessitated the closure of the gardens for repair work but that didn't stop everyone from having fun looking around all the attractions. On the way home a call was made at Taddington to take a lovely high tea with the ladies of Taddington WI. Thanks to all those involved for a great day. You can check out some photos in the gallery.
Invitation To Tea
12 July 2012
On this Saturday - 14 July 2012 - from 10 am - 12 noon members of the Friends of Bestwood Country Park group will be in the Dynamo House providing refreshments for visitors. The Winding Engine House nearby is of course open as usual. Please go along if you can, and have a cuppa with them and give them your views on the country park.
If successful this could become a regular event so please support it .
You can find out more on their web site by clicking HERE
If successful this could become a regular event so please support it .
You can find out more on their web site by clicking HERE
Village Litter Pick
11 July 2012
There will be another chance for you to get involved in cleaning up our village on Saturday 28 July. From 10am to 12 noon groups of villagers will be travelling the roads of Bestwood Village picking up recyclable items and rubbish in an effort to tidy the place up.
If you want to get involved turn up on School Walk at 10am to pick up your gloves, litter picker (see image opposite) and rubbish sacks. There will be refreshments in the church hall afterwards as your reward.
If you want to get involved turn up on School Walk at 10am to pick up your gloves, litter picker (see image opposite) and rubbish sacks. There will be refreshments in the church hall afterwards as your reward.
Had A Great Time At Haddon
7 July 2012
Mary, Audrey, Eileen, Carol, Sue, Brenda, Tanya : Julie, Kay Sheila
Today Bestwood Village WI had their group trip out to Haddon Hall, near Bakewell. Ten members of the WI made the trip, calling at Masson Mills on the way for a little retail therapy and a "Tea for Two" lunch before travelling on to Haddon. Each of the ladies had learned about a different aspect of the house's history or one of its rooms so they could guide the group as they toured the house. The weather was very kind as the showers came whilst they were exploring the inside and the sun shone as they stepped into the gardens. For a full set of photos keep checking out the gallery as more of the photos from the day are gathered and published, The elderberry rob recipe discussed on the trip is also available in the library.
Cheese & Wine Evening
4 July 2012
Tonight's Coffee Club meeting turned into a cheese & wine evening, although coffee and cake were also on the menu. Sheila's event proved very popular with 14 people turning up to enjoy the goodies on offer. Several of the ladies kept up the new trend and walked to the event as the rain managed to hold off for a couple of hours. The room was buzzing with our plans for the trip to Haddon Hall at the weekend along with plans for shopping trips to Waitrose to buy more rosé wine. Photos of this event and the wine tasting evening are available in the gallery.
More Moonlight
30 June 2012
The moonlight swim at Hucknall Leisure Centre last week (see below) was such a success that we are repeating it this week. Tanya, Carol & Julie will definitely be there. If you want to join in come along to the swimming pool at 9pm on Sunday. It will probably be quiet at the pool as the EURO 2012 football final will be live on TV at the time.
Who knows, we may manage another couple of miles for the Big Walk: Little Splash Challenge.
Who knows, we may manage another couple of miles for the Big Walk: Little Splash Challenge.
Winning Wine-tasting
27 June 2012
Tonight's WI meeting saw Carole Clack of Waitrose, Newark taking the ladies through their paces on rosé wines. After a short introduction about the methods of making rosé wines and how the wine varies across different countries and with different grape varieties, we got down to the important job of tasting. We compared the drier taste of the pale French Esprit de Buganay with the fresh & fruity taste of the English Chapel Down and finished off with, what proved to be our favourite, the sweeter, slightly sparkling Brown Brothers Moscato Rosa from Victoria, Australia. Watch out for this one appearing at our Christmas party! Carole was busy handing out complementary strawberries, information leaflets, Waitrose magazines and tasting notes, whist the ladies tried out the 3 wines. The evening ended with a question and answer session during which Carole was able to enlighten us all on issues such as how to match certain foods with a wine and where best to store all those bottles we are now going to buy. Photos of the evening are in the gallery.
Julie's Nordic Adventure
26 June 2012
Julie on her first Nordic walk through the village
On Saturday 16 June Julie took the opportunity to try out Nordic walking in the Country Park. The free session started at 10.30am and lasted about 45 minutes. They were offered by Glynis Jones of North Notts Nordic Walkers She is hoping to arrange regular sessions in the village open to anyone who would like to try this safe way of promoting health, fitness and social contact.
For any queries or to make a booking contact Glynis on 07889038495 or northnottsnordic@gmail.com
Julie hopes to keep up the Nordic walking as she said it made her feel like she could walk for miles by sharing the energy load between arms & legs. Photos HERE
For any queries or to make a booking contact Glynis on 07889038495 or northnottsnordic@gmail.com
Julie hopes to keep up the Nordic walking as she said it made her feel like she could walk for miles by sharing the energy load between arms & legs. Photos HERE
Moonlight Mile
24 June 2012
Julie, Carol H, Kay & Carol R dip their toes in the pool!
An amazing event took place this evening. Four ladies from the BVWI (pictured left) took to the pool at Hucknall Leisure Centre for a "Little Splash" as part of the 209 mile challenge. That in itself was pretty special as some of them had not been to a public pool since their late teens. However, the truly amazing thing was that between them in the half hour session they completed just over 64 lengths which is considered to be equal to ONE MILE. They can verify this as they had Marlene along with them as official length counter for the evening. Perhaps even more surprisingly they enjoyed it and are talking about going again. This Big Walk:Little Splash challenge is having some really startling effects.
For more photos click here.
For more photos click here.
Summer Rosés
19 June 2012
The next meeting of the WI will be a slight change to the advertised programme. Instead of red wines, we will be sampling rosé wines. Carole Clack from Waitrose wine department through that rosé wines would be more suitable for a summer tasting. All we need now is the summer weather!
Don't forget that the raffle theme is "Get Crafty".
See you at the Community Centre at 7.15pm on the 27th June.
Don't forget that the raffle theme is "Get Crafty".
See you at the Community Centre at 7.15pm on the 27th June.
Arnold Carnival - Today!
16 June 2012
Don't forget it is Arnold Carnival today from 12 noon at the Arnot Hill Park. Gedling WI have a Cake & Preserves stall so if you get the chance please look them up and support their cause. Here are some photos of them from earlier today.
WI Ladies Meet Royal Guests
13 June 2012
Duchess of Cambridge mingling with the crowd
Earlier today 2 of the Bestwood WI ladies got a chance to meet the Duke & Duchess of Cambridge as they went on a walk-about in Vernon Park.
Jean was there with the scouts and Kay was there supporting her husband in the Bestwood Male Voice Choir who were singing for the royal couple. Both the ladies had close encounters with the royal couple as they walked amongst the crowds in the Park and Kay was lucky enough to shake hands with the Duchess. Prior to the walk-about the Duke of Cambridge had dedicated the park in the presence of the Queen. Vernon Park, together with Woodthorpe Park, was nominated for Queen Elizabeth II Field Status, part of an initiative to encourage more active use of parks throughout the country.
Entertainment was provided by local groups including the choir and the Duke & Duchess made a particular effort to walk over to the stage during their performance. More photos are in the gallery.
Jean was there with the scouts and Kay was there supporting her husband in the Bestwood Male Voice Choir who were singing for the royal couple. Both the ladies had close encounters with the royal couple as they walked amongst the crowds in the Park and Kay was lucky enough to shake hands with the Duchess. Prior to the walk-about the Duke of Cambridge had dedicated the park in the presence of the Queen. Vernon Park, together with Woodthorpe Park, was nominated for Queen Elizabeth II Field Status, part of an initiative to encourage more active use of parks throughout the country.
Entertainment was provided by local groups including the choir and the Duke & Duchess made a particular effort to walk over to the stage during their performance. More photos are in the gallery.
Five Go On An Adventure
12 June 1012
Walkers only please at Coffee Morning!
On 11 June five members of Bestwood Village WI took a stroll from Keepers Close to Sheila's Coffee morning on Yeoman Avenue and back again as part of the Big Walk: Little Splash Challenge.
Although this is a short walk the return trip for the 5 ladies will add a significant distance to our total mileage. What is more, it makes sure that even our less-able walkers can take part in the project.
Well done ladies and you really earned your tea & cakes that day.
For a peek at some photos, check out the gallery.
Although this is a short walk the return trip for the 5 ladies will add a significant distance to our total mileage. What is more, it makes sure that even our less-able walkers can take part in the project.
Well done ladies and you really earned your tea & cakes that day.
For a peek at some photos, check out the gallery.
Mapperley Jubilee Coffee Evening
9 June 2012
Even the cakes were patriotic colours!
Mapperley WI's annual coffee evening yet again lived up to our high expectations despite the weather. In line with the Queen's jubilee river pageant the rain never stopped on the evening of 7th June but that didn't stop everyone from having a great time. Unlike last year when events took place in Barbara's wonderful garden, this time the house was full to the rafters with WI ladies, The bring & buy stall was in the conservatory, the raffle in the snug and the cakes in the dinning room. It was a fantastic evening to catch up with friends and exchange jubilee weekend stories. The house was beautifully decked out in red, white & blue and all the bunting destined for the garden just ended up in the house instead, lending it a very celebratory air. Barbara, our hostess, as always made everyone feel very welcome and a good time was had by all. Thanks to all the Mapperely ladies who helped out on the event - we really enjoyed it! See the photos in the gallery.
Jubilee Fun Day
3 June 1012
Roll up! Roll up! Get your "Just Desserts" here!
Earlier today the Bestwood Village WI helped the village to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee with an amazing Fun Day. Despite the continuous rain the event went ahead with crowds of enthusiastic people enjoying the stalls and all the goodies on offer.
BVWI stall was "Just Desserts" where you could round off your meal of burgers form the BBQ with a nostalgic pudding. On offer were jellies, mousse, trifles, fruit pies and tinned fruit all served up with indulgent cream, or evaporated milk.
We also ran a "Flag It Up" tombola game where everyone was a winner, even if it was just a consolation prize of some old fashioned sweets which were subsidised by OJ at the Thoroughgoods Store in the village. This was very popular and was soon reduced to the last few flags. Sheila also sold her knitted hedgehog toys which were a real hit with the children.
To check out the photos of the event go to the gallery and click on the "Play" icon to view the slide show.
BVWI stall was "Just Desserts" where you could round off your meal of burgers form the BBQ with a nostalgic pudding. On offer were jellies, mousse, trifles, fruit pies and tinned fruit all served up with indulgent cream, or evaporated milk.
We also ran a "Flag It Up" tombola game where everyone was a winner, even if it was just a consolation prize of some old fashioned sweets which were subsidised by OJ at the Thoroughgoods Store in the village. This was very popular and was soon reduced to the last few flags. Sheila also sold her knitted hedgehog toys which were a real hit with the children.
To check out the photos of the event go to the gallery and click on the "Play" icon to view the slide show.
Gedling WI Stall At Arnold Carnival
3 June 2012
Gedling WI, our Plains Group colleagues, are holding a fund-raising stall at the Arnold Carnival on Saturday 16th June. The event runs over the whole weekend but the WI will just be there on Saturday. The programme of events for the Arnold Carnival can be seen here. If you go along please look out for the Gedling WI stall and buy something wonderful from their cakes & preserves sale or find a bargain on their bric-a-brac stall.
WI Stall At The Village Fun Day
1 June 2012
Look out for our stall at the Village Fun Day on Sunday 3rd June starting at 2pm.
Come rain or shine we will be serving up wonderful puddings to compliment your savoury delights from the BBQ. Our "Just Desserts" stall will be offering trifles, jellies, fruit, pies, blancmange, mousse and many more of your favourites. All will be charged at 25p a scoop!
We care also running a great "Fly the Flag" game with prizes for everyone. You should also look out for our cute knitted hedgehogs; mother & her babies will be available for "adoption" to good homes at reasonable prices.
Whatever you are planning for the Jubilee celebrations on Sunday please make time to pop in to the Village Fun Day - you are bound to enjoy yourself!
Check out the photos of last year here
Come rain or shine we will be serving up wonderful puddings to compliment your savoury delights from the BBQ. Our "Just Desserts" stall will be offering trifles, jellies, fruit, pies, blancmange, mousse and many more of your favourites. All will be charged at 25p a scoop!
We care also running a great "Fly the Flag" game with prizes for everyone. You should also look out for our cute knitted hedgehogs; mother & her babies will be available for "adoption" to good homes at reasonable prices.
Whatever you are planning for the Jubilee celebrations on Sunday please make time to pop in to the Village Fun Day - you are bound to enjoy yourself!
Check out the photos of last year here
Leave The Car At Home
27 May 2012
It might be best to leave the car at home or arrange a lift to our next meeting. On 27th June we will be holding a wine tasting evening. Unlike last year, when Kay had to step in to deliver the tasting notes, this year we will be guided through some rosé wines by wine expert, Carole Clack. Carole works in the wine department at the Waitrose store in Newark and will be using her knowledge to help us appreciate a selection of rosé wines on the night. Although each taster will be a small measure you might be best advised not to drive home afterwards.
Your walk could always count towards your contribution for the Big Walk: Little Splash 209 mile challenge.
If ever there was a good time to come along and try out the WI this is it ladies! Come along and take a look at the WI in the 21 Century and see if it is for you. We promise no jam and definitely no Jerusalem.
Your walk could always count towards your contribution for the Big Walk: Little Splash 209 mile challenge.
If ever there was a good time to come along and try out the WI this is it ladies! Come along and take a look at the WI in the 21 Century and see if it is for you. We promise no jam and definitely no Jerusalem.
Coffee Morning Update
27 May 2012
The next coffee club meeting will be at Sheila's house on Monday 11th June starting at 10am. If you need address details please contact Kay through the contact us page of the web site.
Pictures from the last coffee morning at Barbara B's house are now available in the gallery.
Pictures from the last coffee morning at Barbara B's house are now available in the gallery.
Images From The Past
26 May 2012
Some of the tasty treats
The photos are now available in the gallery from the Plains Group extravaganza event "Putting on the Ritz".
Plains group members gathered at the Good Shepherd Church Centre on the 17th May to experience fashions from the 1920s & 1930s. A living exhibition was provided by Notty Hornblower of Hope House Costume Museum, near Ashbourne with models displaying clothes of the era. Some of the audience dressed in vogue for the period which added to the atmosphere. Tasty treats, akin to those served with tea at the Ritz, were available too as the ladies enjoyed the cat walk show. Well done to Woodthorpe WI who arranged the evening for us all and thanks to all involved.
Plains group members gathered at the Good Shepherd Church Centre on the 17th May to experience fashions from the 1920s & 1930s. A living exhibition was provided by Notty Hornblower of Hope House Costume Museum, near Ashbourne with models displaying clothes of the era. Some of the audience dressed in vogue for the period which added to the atmosphere. Tasty treats, akin to those served with tea at the Ritz, were available too as the ladies enjoyed the cat walk show. Well done to Woodthorpe WI who arranged the evening for us all and thanks to all involved.
Resolution Fun & Games
24 May 2012
Last night's meeting was the annual Resolution meeting where in anticipation of the 2012 AGM the group considered this year's topic: " There are chronic shortages of midwives. The NFWI calls on the government to increase investment in the training, employment and retention of midwives in England & Wales to ensure services are adequately resourced and are able to deliver a high standard of care" which had been proposed by Horwich WI. After a discussion and vote the group amused themselves with fun & games. Table skittles, dominoes, cards and Rummikib were played. You can see the photos in the gallery.
Big Walk:Little Splash Challenge
23 May 2012
The mileage is building up nicely towards the 209 mile total. We have had ladies walking to work, walking round on WI business, walking as part of the ACWW sponsored walk, and even walking round new places on their holidays, including a visist to Gedling's twin town of Rotenburg. We are planning a moonlight swim in June to boost the miles and are also encouraging people to walk to Sheila's coffee morning on 11 June. The whole project is a great team effort and it is wonderful to see everyone taking up the challenge.
Coffee Club Goes To Bulwell
13 May 2012
Just a quick reminder that Barbara B's coffee morning will take place on Saturday 19th May - the kettle goes on at 10am. It is great that one of our Bulwell ladies is holding a coffee morning as they so often can not make it to the ones held in the village. I'm sure we will all do what we can to support her in this event.
Maps & directions are available from Kay or via the contact us page.
Maps & directions are available from Kay or via the contact us page.
Ritzy Evening
12 May 2012
Next Thursday, 17 May, looks like being a great night for the Plains Group. Woodthorpe WI have arranged an evening of nostalgic glamour set in the 1920's & 30s. Fashions form the era will be modelled and tea taken in true Ritz style at the Good Shepherd Church Centre on Thackeray's Lane from 7pm. You can dress in vogue for the era if you wish or just come along and enjoy the mood. This is a ticket only event and tickets are available at £3 from your WI secretary.
ACWW Fund-raising Total Announced
9 May 2012
The two members of Bestwood Village WI that took part in the ACWW Plains Group walk on 29 April have now collected their sponsor money. A total of £196 was pledged by supporters of Carol & Kay and this will very soon be winging its way through to Helen Crowder, ACWW Representative in Notts Federation. Anyone wanting to make up the £4 to round us up to £200 should contact Carol or Kay as soon as possible! We hear that the Gedling ladies that took part have raised around £120 and there is some sponsor money still to come in from Parkdale too so the event looks like being a real winner!
PTA Fashion Show
1 May 2012
The Hawthorne Primary & Nursery School PTA ladies fashion show will be held at the school hall on Thursday 3 May 2012. Kick off is at 7.30pm. Tickets are just £5 which covers your entrance, your first glass of wine or fruit juice and some nibbles. Call in at reception for a ticket or pay on the door on the night. The clothes will be provided, as they were last year, by Euphoriaz Limited of Watnall Road, Hucknall. All sizes will be available to try on at the event and special discounts make the evening well worth going along to.
Little Walk In A Big Splosh On ACWW Walk
30 April 2012
Kay in her ACWW T-shirt
Yesterday, during some of the worst weather of the year, several intrepid members of the Plains group of WIs set out to raise some money for ACWW. As part of the "Women Walk The World" day they planned to walk the 10 miles round all 7 Plains group meeting venues. Starting out from Gedling at 10am they braved rain, hail and driving winds to walk on to Netherfield, Parkdale (Calton), Mapperley, Woodthorpe, Arnold and finally Bestwood Village. To say they got wet would be an understatement of epic proportions, but their spirits were never dampened. Perhaps it was a case of "Dunkirk Spirit" that saw them through but they all seemed to actually enjoy the day getting to know each other better and cheering each other on. Now comes the task of collecting in all the sponsor money. Once the total amount has been calculated it will be published here and circulated to the Plains group WIs to announce at their next meetings.
Thanks must go to all involved on the day: walkers, supporters, taxi drivers, Wetherspoon's staff (who didn't bat an eye when we took over every available warm surface to dry out our clothes on) and the bakers of amazing scones that were a welcome treat at the end of the walk. For photos of the day see the gallery.
Thanks must go to all involved on the day: walkers, supporters, taxi drivers, Wetherspoon's staff (who didn't bat an eye when we took over every available warm surface to dry out our clothes on) and the bakers of amazing scones that were a welcome treat at the end of the walk. For photos of the day see the gallery.
Twitters From The April Meeting
29 April 2012
Some of the Easter nests on offer at the meeting.
At our meeting on Wednesday 25 April David Tideswell kept us all entertained with stories about the birds in his back garden. Illustrated with a wealth of wonderful photographs gathered over a lifetime of birdwatching he explained how to make our gardens more bird- friendly. Brought to life with his own unique combination of facts, cheeky jokes and imitations of birdsong, he had us giggling most of the evening. In amongst all the anecdotes and cute pictures we also gleaned lots of useful information about our feathered friends and I'm sure we were all inspired to go and take another look at our gardens to see how we could improve them for wildlife. The refreshments were very apt for the evening being Easter nests complete with eggs, although they didn't hang around long enough to hatch! Apparently you had to be called Barbara to win the raffle this month as all three of our Barbaras won a prize. See the photos of the night in the gallery.
Date For Your Diary
14 April 2012
Make a note that Barbara Hallam of Mapperley WI will be hosting a Jubilee Coffee Evening on June 7th. There will be a cake stall, a bring & buy sale table and a "red, white & blue" stall. The whole thing will kick off at 7pm and will cost just £2 which includes your coffee/tea and cake. Kay will be selling tickets at our April & May meetings and handing out location maps for those of you who haven't been before. If you would like to check out what happened there last year take a look in the gallery.
Lucky 13 For Julie
9 April 2012
Julie was feeling very lucky to have 13 guests at her Bank Holiday coffee morning today. Despite the weather being really miserable 12 WI members braved the elements to get to Julie's house between 10am and noon to enjoy her hospitality. The lure of her famous coffee & walnut cake really is that strong!
The 13th guest was Sadie, a friend from Julie's work who brought along some hand crafted jewellery for us to buy.
Photos of the event are in the gallery.
See you all at the next coffee club meeting on 19th May.
The 13th guest was Sadie, a friend from Julie's work who brought along some hand crafted jewellery for us to buy.
Photos of the event are in the gallery.
See you all at the next coffee club meeting on 19th May.
April Coffee Morning
7 April 2012
The April coffee morning will be at Julie's house on Bank Holiday Monday the 9th starting at 10am. It would be lovely to see you there. If you are unsure of the address please contact the Secretary via the Contact Us page. Prospective members are always welcome to come along and find out about the WI without obligation to join. But in the meantime - Happy Easter!
The 209 Mile Challenge Has Started
2 April 2012
The BIG WALK / LITTLE SPLASH! Challenge
The BIG WALK/LITTLE SPLASH! challenge started yesterday, 1 April, and runs through until WI Day, on Sunday 16 September.
In that time our WI has to walk or swim 209 miles - which is the distance from the first WI to be established in the UK in 1901 at Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogovh to the Olympic stadium in London. We will be keeping a log of everyone's contributions in words and pictures and these will be complied into a journal of our "Olympic Journey".
The first walk has already taken place - a modest jaunt of 0.65 of a mile by our Secretary delivering copies of Hornblower magazine to members who missed the meeting. From this small acorn we hope to grow and achieve our 209 miles by September, hopefully with a contribution from each of our 21 members. Watch out for updates on how we are doing.
In that time our WI has to walk or swim 209 miles - which is the distance from the first WI to be established in the UK in 1901 at Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogovh to the Olympic stadium in London. We will be keeping a log of everyone's contributions in words and pictures and these will be complied into a journal of our "Olympic Journey".
The first walk has already taken place - a modest jaunt of 0.65 of a mile by our Secretary delivering copies of Hornblower magazine to members who missed the meeting. From this small acorn we hope to grow and achieve our 209 miles by September, hopefully with a contribution from each of our 21 members. Watch out for updates on how we are doing.
Water Colour Wonders
1 April 2012
On Saturday 31 March, Julie and Tanya attended their second mixed media workshop at County House, Newark. The challenge this time was to produce a fabulous picture of tulips in a sunny garden (copied from a print) using water colours, with wax relief. Loads of tips and tricks were shared by Rachel, the instructor, and with her support and encouragement everyone on the course seemed to improve their skills throughout the day .
Check out the photos of the day in the gallery.
This activity is only one of many offered by the Nottinghamshire Federation of WIs and they are well worth going along to. This one cost just £15 per person. Not only can you learn something new but you can have great fun doing it and meet some new friends along the way.
Check out the photos of the day in the gallery.
This activity is only one of many offered by the Nottinghamshire Federation of WIs and they are well worth going along to. This one cost just £15 per person. Not only can you learn something new but you can have great fun doing it and meet some new friends along the way.
Full House For Open Evening
29 March 2012
John Stirland talking to the Open Evening audience
Last night our monthly meeting was an open evening. Around 50 ladies and gentlemen were present to enjoy an amusing talk by BBC TV and radio gardener, John Stirland. His ready wit and relaxed manor soon had the crowd laughing as they heard the story of a local boy who made good. The talk was followed by a Gardener's Question Time session where John offered solutions to all our gardening queries.
Along with the "in the garden" themed raffle and a plant sale the whole evening had a very horticultural feel.
Photos of the evening are to be found in the gallery.
Along with the "in the garden" themed raffle and a plant sale the whole evening had a very horticultural feel.
Photos of the evening are to be found in the gallery.
Walk On Trial
25 March 2012
On Saturday morning there was no lying in bed for Carol & Kay as they headed off to Gedling to start their test run of the planned ACWW Women Walk the World route. To ensure that things run smoothly on 29 April, when the "Round the Plains Group" walk takes place, the intrepid pair set out to trial the 10 miles course. Accompanied for parts of the walk by their husbands on bicycles and taking along Carol's son, Alistair, as chief photographer, they linked all 7 Plains Group WI meeting locations: Gedling, Netherfield, Parkdale, Mapperley, Woodthorpe, Arnold and Bestwood Village. Having set out in the fog at 10am they arrived home in the sunshine at 2.30pm, having stopped for 25 minutes at Mapperley's venue for a coffee and a cake. You can see evidence of their arrival at each location in the gallery. They hope this inspires lots of the Plains group members to take part in the ACWW walk on 29 April, even if they just walk one or two legs of the route.
Nottinghamshire Federation ACM Debut
23 March 2012
Eileen, Kay & Carol arriving at the ACM
The Nottingham Federation of Women's Institutes held its Annual Council Meeting at the Royal Concert Hall yesterday. They were celebrating their 95th year of the WI in the county. The meeting, chaired by Federation Chairman, Maureen Ashby, included talks by Ruth Bond, NFWI Chair, Chris Weir, the archivist from Nottinghamshire County Council and the TV cook Rosemary Shrager.
However, the highlight for Bestwood Village WI was when Kay & Carol took to the stage to give feedback on the County Quiz and announce the names of the 3rd, 2nd & 1st place teams.
Although not quite as funny as the ACWW cow, (you had to be there!) their talk did raise a few laughs and they were hopefully forgiven (well almost!) for setting a pretty tough set of questions. This year's worthy winners were the Woodborough Arrows, whose answers were obviously all on target! Eileen, who was our official delegate for the ACM, managed to snap a few photographs of the two of them on stage so you can check them out along with other photos from the day in the gallery.
However, the highlight for Bestwood Village WI was when Kay & Carol took to the stage to give feedback on the County Quiz and announce the names of the 3rd, 2nd & 1st place teams.
Although not quite as funny as the ACWW cow, (you had to be there!) their talk did raise a few laughs and they were hopefully forgiven (well almost!) for setting a pretty tough set of questions. This year's worthy winners were the Woodborough Arrows, whose answers were obviously all on target! Eileen, who was our official delegate for the ACM, managed to snap a few photographs of the two of them on stage so you can check them out along with other photos from the day in the gallery.
Bestwood B Team Victory
17 March 2012
The B team - Joyce, Shirley, Diane, Julie and missing from the shot, Pauline
On 15th March Kay & Julie from Bestwood Village WI took part in the Long Alley Skittles evening organised by Notts Federation Sports & Leisure Committee. Kay ended up in the A team and Julie in the B team as the 25 players were randomly allocated to teams of 5 players. Whilst Team A got off to a very slow start and ended up just avoiding the wooden spoon, the B Team lead from the start and ended up worthy winners, but just 4 points ahead of their nearest rivals the E Team. The evening was great fun for both novices and regulars alike with wonderful team spirit growing throughout the 5 rounds of play. The pie & pea supper provided welcome respite from the action for half an hour and gave us all a chance to charge our glasses and coffee cups for the second half. Thanks to Lin and all on the Sports & Leisure Sub-Committee for arranging it all.
Coffee Club Bonus
10 March 2012
This morning the usual group of WI members were treated to the bonus of two prospective new members popping into Kay's for coffee, cake and conversation. Hayley & Tracy both contacted us through the web site Contact Us page. They were invited along to meet a few of our ladies in the more intimate setting of a coffee morning before braving a full WI meeting. We all look forward to seeing them at our open meeting on 28th where John Stirland will be treating us to a talk entitled "My Life in Gardening".
Winners At Woodthorpe
9 March 2012
Kay, Julie, Eileen & Audrey displaying their prizes after winning the quiz.
Last night 5 members of the Bestwood Village WI travelled to Woodthorpe WI's Plains Group fund-raiser evening at the Church of the Good Shepherd. They had great fun rummaging round the numerous stalls including crafts, bric-a-brac, blue theme, cakes & books. Later on there was a general knowledge quiz which "Four of the Best(wood WI)" team won with 27 points out of 30. They even managed to win one of the raffle prizes - a very fruitful night!
Thanks to everyone at Woodthorpe WI for organising such an entertaining evening.
Thanks to everyone at Woodthorpe WI for organising such an entertaining evening.
Dates For Your Diary
7 March 2012
Thursday 8th March - Plains Group Fundraiser 7pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Thackeray's Lane - entry by ticket only - 50p
Saturday 10th March - Kay's coffee morning 10am - 12 noon.
Along with the usual drinks and nibbles we are sending out a particular invite to anyone thinking of joining the WI. Come along and try us out in a less formal setting that the monthly meeting. To find out the address just complete the "contact us" form and Kay will send you the details.
Saturday 17th March - St Mark's Church coffee morning - 10.30am - 1pm
There will also be stalls for cakes, sweets, books, cards, unwanted gifts, children's toys & books and Mothers' Day crafts. Entry is free so do come along.
Saturday 10th March - Kay's coffee morning 10am - 12 noon.
Along with the usual drinks and nibbles we are sending out a particular invite to anyone thinking of joining the WI. Come along and try us out in a less formal setting that the monthly meeting. To find out the address just complete the "contact us" form and Kay will send you the details.
Saturday 17th March - St Mark's Church coffee morning - 10.30am - 1pm
There will also be stalls for cakes, sweets, books, cards, unwanted gifts, children's toys & books and Mothers' Day crafts. Entry is free so do come along.
Cup Up For Grabs
28 February 2012
The Bestwood Cupcakes almost ready to relinquish their prize!
After a year of proudly holding the County Quiz Cup the Bestwood Cupcakes finally handed it back. The contest then took place on 24 February at 7 venues around the county to find a new team to crown County Champions. Kay & Julie attended the Normanton on Soar venue to help hand out and collect papers whilst Mary Thompson ran the event on behalf of Notts Fed. Photos are in the gallery. Let's hope the winning team are as proud to have the cup in their trophy cabinet as we have been when they are announced as 2012 Champions at the ACM on 22 March.
Changes At The Top
27 February 2012
Following the elections held at our AGM on 22 February the Bestwood Village WI is proud to announce the following changes within the committee. Tanya Jones is standing down as President to be replaced by both Julie Sutton and Eileen Donnison, who will share the role and its responsibilities for the coming year. Also Carol Hart will be replaced as our Vice President by Brenda Langsdale. The old favourites Sheila Pearson & Kay Brown will carry on as Treasurer and Secretary respectively for another year since they have just worked out what they should be doing!
Thanks go to all involved for their continued commitment to the success of our WI. Photos of the new committee are available on the committee pages.
Thanks go to all involved for their continued commitment to the success of our WI. Photos of the new committee are available on the committee pages.
Last Minute Success
23 February 2012
Remember this?
Our February meeting was packed from beginning to end and was a story of brinkmanship and last minute replacements. The Community Centre boiler had broken down and the plumber, Neil Borwick, heroically came to the rescue with the missing part only an hour before the doors opened.
Then we had two contributors to the evening who were last minute stand-ins for those unable to attend. Firstly Linda Davey took us reasonably painlessly through the annual election of a president or two. Her good wishes for completing our 6th year were much appreciated as were the 2 birthday cakes supplied by Eileen and Sheila.
Sue Clegg, a retired partner from John Lewis Nottingham, then stepped into the breach and entertained us with her illustrated talk on the company covering its fascinating story, past, present & future.
We ended a very successful night with the "Pamper Me!" themed raffle having plucked victory from the jaws of defeat.
Photos of the whole night are in the gallery.
Then we had two contributors to the evening who were last minute stand-ins for those unable to attend. Firstly Linda Davey took us reasonably painlessly through the annual election of a president or two. Her good wishes for completing our 6th year were much appreciated as were the 2 birthday cakes supplied by Eileen and Sheila.
Sue Clegg, a retired partner from John Lewis Nottingham, then stepped into the breach and entertained us with her illustrated talk on the company covering its fascinating story, past, present & future.
We ended a very successful night with the "Pamper Me!" themed raffle having plucked victory from the jaws of defeat.
Photos of the whole night are in the gallery.
Change Of Speaker
17 February 2012
Due to illness Robert Wignall will be unable to deliver his "History of Nottingham Cinemas" talk to our group on Wednesday 22 February. Luckily we have been able to secure a replacement speaker in the form of Sue Clegg of John Lewis who will be talking to us about the history of the store both here in Nottingham and nationally. I'm sure we all wish Robert a speedy recovery and look forward to an interesting talk from Sue.
Recommendation
14 February 2012
If you have been to an event that you really enjoyed and would like to let our other members know about it please tell the committee so we can add your recommendation to our web pages. The first event we would like to recommend to you is:-
The Nottingham Youth Orchestra's "Journey Through Olympic Cities" on 3rd March at the Royal Concert Hall.
This concert also features the Nottingham Youth Jazz Orchestra and is hosted by Des Coleman. Carol H experienced another of their concerts last week and was thrilled by their performance. If you would like to know more either check out the NYO's web site or speak to Carol.
The Nottingham Youth Orchestra's "Journey Through Olympic Cities" on 3rd March at the Royal Concert Hall.
This concert also features the Nottingham Youth Jazz Orchestra and is hosted by Des Coleman. Carol H experienced another of their concerts last week and was thrilled by their performance. If you would like to know more either check out the NYO's web site or speak to Carol.
March Coffee Club Meeting
13 February 2012
Following the success of Eileen's coffee morning today you may want to book the date of the next gathering into your diary. Kay will be hosting on the morning of Saturday 10 March, 10am until noon. Details are on the coffee Club page.
Watch out in the library as the recipe for Eileen's apple cake which we all enjoyed at her gathering today is soon to arrive.
Watch out in the library as the recipe for Eileen's apple cake which we all enjoyed at her gathering today is soon to arrive.
February Coffee Club Meeting
7 February 2012
The February coffee morning is being hosted by Eileen on Monday 13 February. Come along between 10am and noon to share a coffee and a chat with friends. Tickets for the Plains Group Fund-raiser on 8 March will be available to buy on the day if you didn't grab one at the January main meeting. If you need to know the address please contact a member of the committee for details or roll up to Kay's house just before 10am and walk round with her as Eileen is just a few doors down the road. The recipe for the apple cake is on the recipes page of the library.
Library Bus Visits
29 January 2012
A Nottinghamshire Mobile Library Bus
The Nottinghamshire Library Bus visits the village once every 4 weeks on a Thursday morning stopping outside St Mark's Church. To coincide with this St Marks opens its doors and puts on a coffee morning. So you can come along, choose a book and then spend a few relaxed moments over a coffee either starting chapter 1 or discussing your choice with friends. The bus arrives at 9.50am on:- 16 February, 15 March, 12 April ands 10 May. We will keep the up to date list of visit dates in our local links column to the right of this page.
Willing Audience
26 January 2012
Leanne, Mary, Sara & Kay
At our January meeting we were treated to an entertaining talk on what could have been a rather dry subject - financial planning and inheritance protection. Sara Desforges and her colleague Leanne of Simpson Jones solicitors delivered what turned out to be a thought provoking discussion of the pitfalls of planning for your future and along the way busted a few myths surrounding the writing of wills. We all learned that good decisions made now can save you money down the line - it just takes the investment of a little time considering some things we all try to avoid thinking about. The facts and advice were interspersed with a potted career history from Sara and a few cautious tales of what can happen to the unprepared.
At the end of the evening names were drawn out of a hat to win a couple of bottles of wine and the picture shows the lucky winners with their prizes.
At the end of the evening names were drawn out of a hat to win a couple of bottles of wine and the picture shows the lucky winners with their prizes.
Mapperley WI's Winter Warmer
22 January 2012
Early January saw Tanya and Julie attend the annual Mapperley WI Winter Warmer event. They enjoyed a fabulous meal of home-made soup, followed by tasty jacket potatoes with a choice of fillings and then, to top it off, apple pie and cream. What a treat on a cold January evening. Thanks should go to Lorna Weir, Margaret Pollard, Sue Smart and Joan Wild for their fabulous company and looking after our ladies so well.
Entertainment was provided by Irene Strike, who, despite technical issues with the CD player, provided a wonderful nostalgic show of songs, poems and sing-a-longs. There was also a table quiz which, in the Bestwood Village WI tradition, our ladies won. Hearty thanks to Mapperley WI for a fabulous evening.
Entertainment was provided by Irene Strike, who, despite technical issues with the CD player, provided a wonderful nostalgic show of songs, poems and sing-a-longs. There was also a table quiz which, in the Bestwood Village WI tradition, our ladies won. Hearty thanks to Mapperley WI for a fabulous evening.
2012 Here We Come!
2 January 2012
Happy New Year everyone!
.A couple of dates for your new 2012 diaries:-
10 January 7pm at the Social Club - Committee meeting
25 January 7pm at the Community Centre - Our January meeting - which is a change to the advertised event in your programme. We have parked the normal birthday card making evening as the craft group will be meeting up to make some cards later in the year. The January meeting will now be an evening to find out how to plan your finances and the dos and don'ts of making a will with Sara Desforges of Simpson Jones Solicitors.
We hope to see you there.
.A couple of dates for your new 2012 diaries:-
10 January 7pm at the Social Club - Committee meeting
25 January 7pm at the Community Centre - Our January meeting - which is a change to the advertised event in your programme. We have parked the normal birthday card making evening as the craft group will be meeting up to make some cards later in the year. The January meeting will now be an evening to find out how to plan your finances and the dos and don'ts of making a will with Sara Desforges of Simpson Jones Solicitors.
We hope to see you there.
Anyone For Sherry Or A Sharon Fruit?
1 January 2012
Sharon Fruit - tried for the first time by some of the ladies.
Kay's sherry & mince pie event on 27th December was attended by 9 WI ladies including Pauline & Bernice from Arnold WI. They had been invited along at our Christmas party on 14th and it was wonderful that they came over to the village once again to help us celebrate the festive season. Coffee & tea featured along side the sherry, ginger wine and mead. All this was accompanied by the promised warm mince pies as well as some Dundee cake, a battenburg and a selection of interesting fresh fruits.
Let's hope these gatherings continue in the 2012 calendar.
Let's hope these gatherings continue in the 2012 calendar.
Netherfield's Christmas Meeting
The winning entry in the mince pie competition
21 December 2011
Tonight Carol & Kay were guests of Netherfield WI at St Georges Centre for their Christmas meeting. The event included entertainment from the Calverton Churches Together Choir performing and leading group singing of some popular carols. There was also a fantastic raffle - which sadly we didn't win - and a best mince pie competition where we got to buy the entries to take home and taste. There was a festive buffet for everyone to enjoy and as you will see from the photos in the gallery everyone had a very jolly time.Thank you for inviting us!
Tonight Carol & Kay were guests of Netherfield WI at St Georges Centre for their Christmas meeting. The event included entertainment from the Calverton Churches Together Choir performing and leading group singing of some popular carols. There was also a fantastic raffle - which sadly we didn't win - and a best mince pie competition where we got to buy the entries to take home and taste. There was a festive buffet for everyone to enjoy and as you will see from the photos in the gallery everyone had a very jolly time.Thank you for inviting us!
Alternative Christmas Pudding Recipe
Something To Toast
19 December 2011
Don't forget that Kay is offering sherry and mince pies at her house on December 27th. Come along and raise a glass or two between 3-5pm. It would be great to see you all and discuss what Santa has brought you this year. There is parking for a few cars on the driveway so please bring your cars in off the road if there is space.
In the meantime, Merry Christmas and see you very soon.
Don't forget that Kay is offering sherry and mince pies at her house on December 27th. Come along and raise a glass or two between 3-5pm. It would be great to see you all and discuss what Santa has brought you this year. There is parking for a few cars on the driveway so please bring your cars in off the road if there is space.
In the meantime, Merry Christmas and see you very soon.
Merry Christmas Everyone!
What was left over when we had all had our fill!
17 December 2011
On Wednesday 14 December the Bestwood Village WI Christmas Party took place at the Community Centre. Preparations began at 4.30pm and by 7pm when the guests from Arnold, Gedling and Mapperley WIs arrived a tremendous spread had been brought together by all the members of our WI. Somehow we managed to munch our way though most of the food, including the stars of the show: Eileen's hard boiled eggs and Audrey's pork pie, which was almost as long as Moor Road! Tanya was our compare for the evening taking us through games of "Heads & Tails", playing card bingo, Pictionary and a quiz to identify countries by their coastlines. The entertainment was provided by Tanya, Carol, Julie and Eileen of the Committee who performed a comic rendition of "Four Girls Bright & Beautiful". This was followed by group singing of Christmas songs and a rousing version of Jerusalem. Everyone helped with the clearing up and we wandered home with our presents, and many with their winnings, at 9.30pm. Thank you to all who helped make it a great night for our members and our guests. There are photos of the night in the gallery.
On Wednesday 14 December the Bestwood Village WI Christmas Party took place at the Community Centre. Preparations began at 4.30pm and by 7pm when the guests from Arnold, Gedling and Mapperley WIs arrived a tremendous spread had been brought together by all the members of our WI. Somehow we managed to munch our way though most of the food, including the stars of the show: Eileen's hard boiled eggs and Audrey's pork pie, which was almost as long as Moor Road! Tanya was our compare for the evening taking us through games of "Heads & Tails", playing card bingo, Pictionary and a quiz to identify countries by their coastlines. The entertainment was provided by Tanya, Carol, Julie and Eileen of the Committee who performed a comic rendition of "Four Girls Bright & Beautiful". This was followed by group singing of Christmas songs and a rousing version of Jerusalem. Everyone helped with the clearing up and we wandered home with our presents, and many with their winnings, at 9.30pm. Thank you to all who helped make it a great night for our members and our guests. There are photos of the night in the gallery.
Christmas Party Reminder
13 December 2011
Please remember to bring along a plate, bowl and cutlery as well as your chosen food item to tomorrow's party. The committee will be setting up from about 5.30pm but just come along at 7pm as usual with your food items and we will soon get the party under way.
There will be party games, a raffle, singing and presents for everyone. We are sure to have a great time celebrating with our guests from the other Plains Group WIs.
Please remember to bring along a plate, bowl and cutlery as well as your chosen food item to tomorrow's party. The committee will be setting up from about 5.30pm but just come along at 7pm as usual with your food items and we will soon get the party under way.
There will be party games, a raffle, singing and presents for everyone. We are sure to have a great time celebrating with our guests from the other Plains Group WIs.
We're Off To Denman College
Denman College, Marcham, Oxfordshire
12 December 2011
5 ladies from Bestwood Village WI are winging their way down to Denman College for a Christmas Lunch today. Brenda, Eileen, Julie, Marlene and Kay will enjoy a 3 course set lunch and hopefully get time to have a quick look round Denman before the drive back home this evening.
See the photos in the gallery to see how they got on.
5 ladies from Bestwood Village WI are winging their way down to Denman College for a Christmas Lunch today. Brenda, Eileen, Julie, Marlene and Kay will enjoy a 3 course set lunch and hopefully get time to have a quick look round Denman before the drive back home this evening.
See the photos in the gallery to see how they got on.
Gedling's Christmas Party
Gedling WI had the festive food covered!
11 December 2011
Carol and her mum, Barbara, enjoyed the Christmas party at Gedling WI on Friday 9th December. There are a few photos in the gallery but there may be a few more photos mounted later.
Carol and her mum, Barbara, enjoyed the Christmas party at Gedling WI on Friday 9th December. There are a few photos in the gallery but there may be a few more photos mounted later.
Inside The Committee Meeting
Agenda & Minutes explained!
10 December 2011
At the December committee meeting we invited a photographer in to record the event so that you can all see what goes on. The results are in the gallery.
Hopefully this will encourage a few more of you to come along and join us on the committee. If you are interested in joining us - permanently or just for one meeting to see if you like it - please talk to a committee member.
At the December committee meeting we invited a photographer in to record the event so that you can all see what goes on. The results are in the gallery.
Hopefully this will encourage a few more of you to come along and join us on the committee. If you are interested in joining us - permanently or just for one meeting to see if you like it - please talk to a committee member.
Arnold's Christmas Party Is Magic
7 December 2011
Last night two Bestwood WI members attended the Arnold WI Christmas Party at the Pondshill Community Centre. Barbara & Barbara were seated at Arnold President, Sheila Fisher's table and were treated to a wonderful evening of food and festivities. The entertainment was courtesy of a magician doing close-up table magic tricks. A great time was had by everyone and we hope our party on 14th December can be just as much fun.
Photos of the night are in the gallery.
Last night two Bestwood WI members attended the Arnold WI Christmas Party at the Pondshill Community Centre. Barbara & Barbara were seated at Arnold President, Sheila Fisher's table and were treated to a wonderful evening of food and festivities. The entertainment was courtesy of a magician doing close-up table magic tricks. A great time was had by everyone and we hope our party on 14th December can be just as much fun.
Photos of the night are in the gallery.
Woodthorpe's Christmas Party
6 December 2011
Two of our newest members, Carol & Christa, attended the Woodthorpe WI Christmas Party on Monday 5 December. They received a very warm welcome and had a super time. They are now keen to get involved in more Plains Group events and are looking forward to the Spring fundraiser and the "Putting on the Ritz" evening in May.
Two of our newest members, Carol & Christa, attended the Woodthorpe WI Christmas Party on Monday 5 December. They received a very warm welcome and had a super time. They are now keen to get involved in more Plains Group events and are looking forward to the Spring fundraiser and the "Putting on the Ritz" evening in May.
Lighting Up For Christmas
3 December 2011
Last night the village got together to watch the Christmas tree lights turned on and, as ever, the WI were involved in the event. The Hawthorne Primary School Choir got things under way at 6.30pm in the Community Centre by singing a selection of carols. This was followed by the Bestwood Male Voice Choir and the Bestwood Black Diamonds Band leading the crowd in singing two sets of Christmas songs; one before the big switch on and one afterwards. At 7pm the tree lights were turned on by Nottinghamshire County Counsellor, Chris Barnfather (Chairman of the Planning & Licensing Committee) to a rousing round of applause. Back inside the Community Centre free hot mulled wine and mince pies were being served.
Our WI stall was offering people the chance to take a little of the festive spirit home with them in the shape of Christmas decorations and hand-knitted items for sale. Our sales raised £18 for a local hospice, £10 for the Christmas tree lights fund and £32 for WI funds, with which we intend buying a much needed new kettle.
We have a few photos of the event in the gallery. Read what the Hucknall & Bulwell Dispatch had to say about the night here.
Last night the village got together to watch the Christmas tree lights turned on and, as ever, the WI were involved in the event. The Hawthorne Primary School Choir got things under way at 6.30pm in the Community Centre by singing a selection of carols. This was followed by the Bestwood Male Voice Choir and the Bestwood Black Diamonds Band leading the crowd in singing two sets of Christmas songs; one before the big switch on and one afterwards. At 7pm the tree lights were turned on by Nottinghamshire County Counsellor, Chris Barnfather (Chairman of the Planning & Licensing Committee) to a rousing round of applause. Back inside the Community Centre free hot mulled wine and mince pies were being served.
Our WI stall was offering people the chance to take a little of the festive spirit home with them in the shape of Christmas decorations and hand-knitted items for sale. Our sales raised £18 for a local hospice, £10 for the Christmas tree lights fund and £32 for WI funds, with which we intend buying a much needed new kettle.
We have a few photos of the event in the gallery. Read what the Hucknall & Bulwell Dispatch had to say about the night here.
Wedding Bells For Latest WI Member
26 November 2011
Today at 12.30pm one of our newest WI members, Carol, will be tying the matrimonial knot at St Mark's church to fiancé, Wayne.
All the members of Bestwood Village WI wish them well in their new adventure together.
Photos of the wedding are in the gallery.
Today at 12.30pm one of our newest WI members, Carol, will be tying the matrimonial knot at St Mark's church to fiancé, Wayne.
All the members of Bestwood Village WI wish them well in their new adventure together.
Photos of the wedding are in the gallery.
Almost Good Enough To Eat
Clove and Lemon cupcake soap
24 November 2011
As you can see from the photo, some of Jan Palmer's soap creations looked good enough to eat on her sale table at last night's meeting. Jan's enthusiasm for her subject and her knowledge of hand-making soaps really showed through in her talk. The sale table hardly survived the onslaught of frenzied buying that followed.
For more photos of the evening go to our gallery.
As you can see from the photo, some of Jan Palmer's soap creations looked good enough to eat on her sale table at last night's meeting. Jan's enthusiasm for her subject and her knowledge of hand-making soaps really showed through in her talk. The sale table hardly survived the onslaught of frenzied buying that followed.
For more photos of the evening go to our gallery.
Village Christmas Tree Lighting Up
21 November 2011
The lights on the Bestwood Village Christmas tree will be turned on at a ceremony held on 2 December. The proceedings will include performances by local school children, the Bestwood Male Voice Choir and the Black Diamonds Band. There will also be a chance to join in with some carol singing before retiring to the Community Centre to enjoy free mince pies and mulled wine. The WI will be running a stall selling Christmas decorations and other Christmas crafts and there will be a tombola stall. The whole thing kicks off at 6.30pm at the Community centre and the tree will be lit up at 7pm. Come along and enjoy the fun & festivities!
The lights on the Bestwood Village Christmas tree will be turned on at a ceremony held on 2 December. The proceedings will include performances by local school children, the Bestwood Male Voice Choir and the Black Diamonds Band. There will also be a chance to join in with some carol singing before retiring to the Community Centre to enjoy free mince pies and mulled wine. The WI will be running a stall selling Christmas decorations and other Christmas crafts and there will be a tombola stall. The whole thing kicks off at 6.30pm at the Community centre and the tree will be lit up at 7pm. Come along and enjoy the fun & festivities!
Wednesday's Meeting
20 November 2011
Just a quick reminder that the next meeting will be this Wednesday when we will be entertained by Jan Palmer and her talk on soap making. There will be a sale table full of beautiful soaps to purchase for yourselves or as Christmas presents, so do remember your purse.
Just a quick reminder that the next meeting will be this Wednesday when we will be entertained by Jan Palmer and her talk on soap making. There will be a sale table full of beautiful soaps to purchase for yourselves or as Christmas presents, so do remember your purse.
The Favoured Few
19 November 2011
Christa's afternoon tea was well worth visiting today. Not only were those attending spoilt with tea, coffee and home baked cakes, but they were also sent home with a lovely hand-crafted favours box full of lovely chocolates. An example of the favours box is shown here.
More of these favours boxes will be available to purchase on the WI craft stall on 2 December at the celebrations for the turning on of the village Christmas lights.
Christa's afternoon tea was well worth visiting today. Not only were those attending spoilt with tea, coffee and home baked cakes, but they were also sent home with a lovely hand-crafted favours box full of lovely chocolates. An example of the favours box is shown here.
More of these favours boxes will be available to purchase on the WI craft stall on 2 December at the celebrations for the turning on of the village Christmas lights.
Headline News
18 November 2011
This week 127 of the tiniest knitted baby beanie hats have been delivered to Nottingham City Hospital's neo-natal baby unit. This is the result of several week's work by our talented ladies. The neo-natal unit are always in need of these tiny hats as most of their babies take their hats with them when they leave, so new ones are always in demand. The City Hospital asked us to pass on a big thank you to all those involved in the project. If you fancy having a go at creating one of these miniature marvels you can follow the pattern in our library.
This week 127 of the tiniest knitted baby beanie hats have been delivered to Nottingham City Hospital's neo-natal baby unit. This is the result of several week's work by our talented ladies. The neo-natal unit are always in need of these tiny hats as most of their babies take their hats with them when they leave, so new ones are always in demand. The City Hospital asked us to pass on a big thank you to all those involved in the project. If you fancy having a go at creating one of these miniature marvels you can follow the pattern in our library.
Happy Birthday Hucknall WI
16 November 2011
Sheila and Kay were happy to take up the invitation from Hucknall WI to help them celebrate their 44th birthday last night. It was an evening to remember with wonderful food and sparkling entertainment. There were readings of favourite poems, both poignant and funny, a raffle and a table quiz to test the old grey matter. The buffet supper was, as always, an extravaganza of flavours with the star turn yet again being the poached salmon with the home-made chutneys and interesting salads a close second. The sherry trifle should have carried a "percentage by volume of alcohol" label and was to be avoided by anyone driving that night! Luckily I wasn't driving and so enjoyed seconds - hic! Thank you to all the Hucknall WI ladies for a warm welcome and a great evening. Hopefully we will have photos of the birthday cake soon.
Sheila and Kay were happy to take up the invitation from Hucknall WI to help them celebrate their 44th birthday last night. It was an evening to remember with wonderful food and sparkling entertainment. There were readings of favourite poems, both poignant and funny, a raffle and a table quiz to test the old grey matter. The buffet supper was, as always, an extravaganza of flavours with the star turn yet again being the poached salmon with the home-made chutneys and interesting salads a close second. The sherry trifle should have carried a "percentage by volume of alcohol" label and was to be avoided by anyone driving that night! Luckily I wasn't driving and so enjoyed seconds - hic! Thank you to all the Hucknall WI ladies for a warm welcome and a great evening. Hopefully we will have photos of the birthday cake soon.
Afternoon Tea with Christa
7 November 2011
The good news for those of you finding yourselves at a loose end on 19th November is that we are holding one of our "coffee club meetings" on that day. It is actually an afternoon tea hosted by Christa, one of our new members. She will be expecting you between 1pm and 3pm. If you need address details please contact a member of the committee either by phone (number on your programme) or through the "Contact Us" page on this web site. It will be great to see you all there.
The good news for those of you finding yourselves at a loose end on 19th November is that we are holding one of our "coffee club meetings" on that day. It is actually an afternoon tea hosted by Christa, one of our new members. She will be expecting you between 1pm and 3pm. If you need address details please contact a member of the committee either by phone (number on your programme) or through the "Contact Us" page on this web site. It will be great to see you all there.
Autumn Fayre Cancelled
7 November 2011
Sadly the Gedling WI Autumn Fayre planned for the 19 November that we publicised back on September 29th has had to be cancelled. If we hear of a rescheduled date we will let you know.
Sadly the Gedling WI Autumn Fayre planned for the 19 November that we publicised back on September 29th has had to be cancelled. If we hear of a rescheduled date we will let you know.
Sweet Stall A Blazing Success
5 November 2011
As part of the Bestwood Village Bonfire celebrations the WI provided a "Sweets & Treats" stall at St Marks Church. Alongside the usual hot dogs and mushy peas available on the night from the organisers, our stall offered a sweet alternative by serving up toffee or chocolate apples, fudge, cinder toffee, peanut brittle, fridge cake, marshmallow sparklers and bonfire toffee lollipops. It all went down a treat with both the young and young at heart. A donation was made to the church from the night's takings and the remaining amount will give a small boost to our WI funds. A big thank you to all the ladies who got stuck in to making of all those irresistible goodies, and to all those people who bought them - a selection of the treats are pictured here.
As part of the Bestwood Village Bonfire celebrations the WI provided a "Sweets & Treats" stall at St Marks Church. Alongside the usual hot dogs and mushy peas available on the night from the organisers, our stall offered a sweet alternative by serving up toffee or chocolate apples, fudge, cinder toffee, peanut brittle, fridge cake, marshmallow sparklers and bonfire toffee lollipops. It all went down a treat with both the young and young at heart. A donation was made to the church from the night's takings and the remaining amount will give a small boost to our WI funds. A big thank you to all the ladies who got stuck in to making of all those irresistible goodies, and to all those people who bought them - a selection of the treats are pictured here.
Take High Tea With Tanya
28 October 2011
This month's coffee club meeting has morphed into a high tea. Tanya will be open for guests between 4pm and 6pm on Monday 31 October. Despite this being Hallowe'en there is nothing scary about the event except perhaps the prospect of running out of chairs!
If you need the address or directions please contact a member of the committee - the secretary's number is on your programme booklet - or email her using the Contact Us form on this web site.
This month's coffee club meeting has morphed into a high tea. Tanya will be open for guests between 4pm and 6pm on Monday 31 October. Despite this being Hallowe'en there is nothing scary about the event except perhaps the prospect of running out of chairs!
If you need the address or directions please contact a member of the committee - the secretary's number is on your programme booklet - or email her using the Contact Us form on this web site.
Double Celebration
26 October 2011
At our October meeting we were pleased to welcome 2 new members to the group. Carol and Christa both took advantage of the membership discount offer and joined in October and only paid the annual membership fee of £31.50. This means they will be fully paid up members of the group right through to December 2013. Welcome aboard ladies!
At our October meeting we were pleased to welcome 2 new members to the group. Carol and Christa both took advantage of the membership discount offer and joined in October and only paid the annual membership fee of £31.50. This means they will be fully paid up members of the group right through to December 2013. Welcome aboard ladies!
Love Your Libraries Campaign
23 October 2011
The WI are supporting the "Love Your Libraries" campaign as a result of the successful resolution vote in 2011. If you would like to sign the e-petition please click this link.
The WI are supporting the "Love Your Libraries" campaign as a result of the successful resolution vote in 2011. If you would like to sign the e-petition please click this link.
Craft Club Offer Free Training Places
22 October 2011
NFWI has agreed to support the Crafts Council Craft Clubs project by providing 10 "Pass it on" training days over the next 2 years. These training days are free for competent knitters & crafters who wish to set up & run, or volunteer to take part in, clubs in their areas. WI members will also receive up to £50 to cover travel expenses. There is also money available to help support the members' travel to cascade their Craft Club training knowledge to others. To find out if there is a training day that you could attend click on the Craft Club Volunteers Page.
NFWI has agreed to support the Crafts Council Craft Clubs project by providing 10 "Pass it on" training days over the next 2 years. These training days are free for competent knitters & crafters who wish to set up & run, or volunteer to take part in, clubs in their areas. WI members will also receive up to £50 to cover travel expenses. There is also money available to help support the members' travel to cascade their Craft Club training knowledge to others. To find out if there is a training day that you could attend click on the Craft Club Volunteers Page.
Workshop Works Well
19 October 2011
Tanya & Kay attended a Presidents and Secretaries' workshop this evening which was held at Lowdham WI Hall. The evening was really useful for both of them. The advice they received from the tutors on their respective roles was invaluable. But perhaps even more enlightening were the shared ideas from members of the other WIs at the workshop. Watch out at the next few meetings as the closing message of the workshop was to keep things fresh by ringing the changes!
Tanya & Kay attended a Presidents and Secretaries' workshop this evening which was held at Lowdham WI Hall. The evening was really useful for both of them. The advice they received from the tutors on their respective roles was invaluable. But perhaps even more enlightening were the shared ideas from members of the other WIs at the workshop. Watch out at the next few meetings as the closing message of the workshop was to keep things fresh by ringing the changes!
Bargain Offer
18 October 2011
WI members have been offered 2 for the price of 1 on tickets to see the new Stephen Lowe play "Séance on a Sunday Afternoon" at the Lakeside Arts Centre, University Park, Nottingham. The matinee performances on Saturday 22nd and Wednesday 26th October, both starting at 2pm, will cost just £10 for 2 tickets. (concessions £7 for 2 tickets).
Contact the box office for details on 0115 846 7777
WI members have been offered 2 for the price of 1 on tickets to see the new Stephen Lowe play "Séance on a Sunday Afternoon" at the Lakeside Arts Centre, University Park, Nottingham. The matinee performances on Saturday 22nd and Wednesday 26th October, both starting at 2pm, will cost just £10 for 2 tickets. (concessions £7 for 2 tickets).
Contact the box office for details on 0115 846 7777
Winding House Photos
17 October 2011
Photos are now available of the famous lift rescue during the Hucknall Heritage Bus Tour.
They are in the gallery
Photos are now available of the famous lift rescue during the Hucknall Heritage Bus Tour.
They are in the gallery
Two More Dates For Your Diary
17 October 2011
There are two more events in the village that you might want to make a note of:-
1) Tuesday 18th October -TOMORROW!!! - Hawthorne Primary & Nursery School PTA Ladies Fashion Show. Entrance is just £5 which includes a glass of wine, nibbles and a raffle ticket. It all kicks off at the school at 7.30pm. The evening will include fashions from Euphoria Ladies Fashions of Watnall Road, Hucknall along with jewellery & make up stalls, a nail bar and massage chair. Tickets are available from the school or at the door on the night.
2) Stampin'Up are running monthly card making classes at the Bestwood Village Community Centre. They take place on the last Saturday of every month and cost £15 a session. For that you will receive full tuition in card making and all the materials for your projects along with light refreshments. The classes run 9.30am to 12.30pm. If you have the basic equipment of scissors etc you should bring them along but if not they can be provided. You must book 2 weeks in advance either by phone on 07891 476636 or by email on tracy6636@hotmail.com.
There are two more events in the village that you might want to make a note of:-
1) Tuesday 18th October -TOMORROW!!! - Hawthorne Primary & Nursery School PTA Ladies Fashion Show. Entrance is just £5 which includes a glass of wine, nibbles and a raffle ticket. It all kicks off at the school at 7.30pm. The evening will include fashions from Euphoria Ladies Fashions of Watnall Road, Hucknall along with jewellery & make up stalls, a nail bar and massage chair. Tickets are available from the school or at the door on the night.
2) Stampin'Up are running monthly card making classes at the Bestwood Village Community Centre. They take place on the last Saturday of every month and cost £15 a session. For that you will receive full tuition in card making and all the materials for your projects along with light refreshments. The classes run 9.30am to 12.30pm. If you have the basic equipment of scissors etc you should bring them along but if not they can be provided. You must book 2 weeks in advance either by phone on 07891 476636 or by email on tracy6636@hotmail.com.
Talent Blossoms On Sugar Craft Course
16 October 2011
Julie & Tanya have been on a course to learn sugar craft. You can see the results in the accomplishments section of the web site - click here.
We are thinking about asking the tutor from their course to come along next year and give us all a chance to see how it is done.
Julie & Tanya have been on a course to learn sugar craft. You can see the results in the accomplishments section of the web site - click here.
We are thinking about asking the tutor from their course to come along next year and give us all a chance to see how it is done.
Ribbon Craft Photos In Gallery
1 October 2011
Photos from Wednesday night's meeting are now available in the Gallery. Didn't we do well!
Displayed here is Tanya's finished card.
Photos from Wednesday night's meeting are now available in the Gallery. Didn't we do well!
Displayed here is Tanya's finished card.
Three Dates For Your Diary
29 September 2011
1) A WaterAid Big Ceilidh is being held in Nottingham on 15th October.
Venue: West Bridgford Community Hall, Church Drive, Nottingham NG2 6AY
Time 7.30pm Tickets: £10 Contact: email kirsty.fulton@hotmail.co.uk
2) The next hostess of a coffee "morning" will be Tanya but she is turning it into a high tea instead. We will be gathering at her house on 31 October. There will be no trick or treating but there may be a game of musical chairs as Tanya only has 8 in the house! Details of the location and exact time will be available at the October meeting.
3) Gedling WI will be holding an Autumn Fayre on Saturday 19th November 10.30am to 12 noon at Gedling Road Methodist Church, Gedling Road, Carlton. There will be a tombola, stalls selling bric-a-brac children's toys and books, home made cakes, james & preserves for sale and light refreshments available. All this for just a 50p entrance fee.
1) A WaterAid Big Ceilidh is being held in Nottingham on 15th October.
Venue: West Bridgford Community Hall, Church Drive, Nottingham NG2 6AY
Time 7.30pm Tickets: £10 Contact: email kirsty.fulton@hotmail.co.uk
2) The next hostess of a coffee "morning" will be Tanya but she is turning it into a high tea instead. We will be gathering at her house on 31 October. There will be no trick or treating but there may be a game of musical chairs as Tanya only has 8 in the house! Details of the location and exact time will be available at the October meeting.
3) Gedling WI will be holding an Autumn Fayre on Saturday 19th November 10.30am to 12 noon at Gedling Road Methodist Church, Gedling Road, Carlton. There will be a tombola, stalls selling bric-a-brac children's toys and books, home made cakes, james & preserves for sale and light refreshments available. All this for just a 50p entrance fee.
Beauvale Group New Members' Evening
28 September 2011
Last night Watnall WI hosted a New Members Evening for WIs in and around the Beauvale Group area. Bestwood Village WI were pleased to be invited and Tanya & Kay went along to learn a little, meet some new people and to get some great ideas on how to help out our new and potential members. It was a full house with representatives from Watnall, Leenside (Hucknall), Nuthall, Eastwood, Newstead (as seen on TV), Kimberley and ourselves attending, Representatives from all aspects of the Nottingham Federation were on hand to give talks, answer questions and generally encourage all the ladies to make the most of what is on offer at the WI. There was something to learn for everyone, be they potential new members or old hands. Well done to Helen Rose, President of Watnall WI, and her team for an inspiring night.
Last night Watnall WI hosted a New Members Evening for WIs in and around the Beauvale Group area. Bestwood Village WI were pleased to be invited and Tanya & Kay went along to learn a little, meet some new people and to get some great ideas on how to help out our new and potential members. It was a full house with representatives from Watnall, Leenside (Hucknall), Nuthall, Eastwood, Newstead (as seen on TV), Kimberley and ourselves attending, Representatives from all aspects of the Nottingham Federation were on hand to give talks, answer questions and generally encourage all the ladies to make the most of what is on offer at the WI. There was something to learn for everyone, be they potential new members or old hands. Well done to Helen Rose, President of Watnall WI, and her team for an inspiring night.
Plains Group Handover Goes Without A Hitch
27 September 2011
Last night's meeting of the Plains Group Committee members was a roaring success. In about an hour the paperwork was handed over from the outgoing Bestwood Village members to the incoming Woodthorpe members. Woodthorpe then set out their plans for the coming year which sound very exciting. The evening was rounded off with a glass of vino and a toast to another great year for the magnificent 7 (Arnold, Bestwood Village, Gedling, Mapperley, Netherfield, Parkdale and Woodthorpe). We can now look forward to the next fantastic Plains Group event which will be on the 17th May, 2012, but so far the details of the star turn are not being revealed.
Last night's meeting of the Plains Group Committee members was a roaring success. In about an hour the paperwork was handed over from the outgoing Bestwood Village members to the incoming Woodthorpe members. Woodthorpe then set out their plans for the coming year which sound very exciting. The evening was rounded off with a glass of vino and a toast to another great year for the magnificent 7 (Arnold, Bestwood Village, Gedling, Mapperley, Netherfield, Parkdale and Woodthorpe). We can now look forward to the next fantastic Plains Group event which will be on the 17th May, 2012, but so far the details of the star turn are not being revealed.
WI Help BAG Project
26 September 2011
In Nottinghamshire all the WI groups have been asked to help out the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group (BAG) with their project to map the spread of the invasive species Himalayan Balsam. To find out how you can help click this link to the BAG web site or come along to our September meeting to find out more from the committee.
In Nottinghamshire all the WI groups have been asked to help out the Nottinghamshire Biodiversity Action Group (BAG) with their project to map the spread of the invasive species Himalayan Balsam. To find out how you can help click this link to the BAG web site or come along to our September meeting to find out more from the committee.
Recipe - Beetroot and Orange Relish
25 September 2011
Have a look in the recipe section for Carol's great recipe for all that surplus beetroot.
Have a look in the recipe section for Carol's great recipe for all that surplus beetroot.
WI Well Represented At The Village Vision Meeting
24 September 2011
Today's open meeting of the Village Vision Group was well represented by WI members with Carol, Kay, Sheila & Sue attending at the Social Club Hall from 10am - 12noon. Lots of great ideas to improve life in the village were discussed and anyone is welcome to attend the next Village Vision group meeting at 7.30 on 19th October at St Mark's Church where these ideas will hopefully be progressed towards reality. There is talk of a Village Vision website being developed as a one stop shop for all village activities. As soon as we have details we will post a link from this web site for you. In the meantime, any village event can be publicised here - just let us know the details through the contact form.
Today's open meeting of the Village Vision Group was well represented by WI members with Carol, Kay, Sheila & Sue attending at the Social Club Hall from 10am - 12noon. Lots of great ideas to improve life in the village were discussed and anyone is welcome to attend the next Village Vision group meeting at 7.30 on 19th October at St Mark's Church where these ideas will hopefully be progressed towards reality. There is talk of a Village Vision website being developed as a one stop shop for all village activities. As soon as we have details we will post a link from this web site for you. In the meantime, any village event can be publicised here - just let us know the details through the contact form.
September Meeting - Lynda Kinnard's Ribbon Craft
21 September 2011
Just a quick reminder that this month's meeting is the ribbon craft session with Lynda Kinnard. If you want to enjoy having a go at making the greetings card decorated with ribbons to take home with you, please bring along £2. There will also be a sales table on the night so maybe you should drop a few extra coins into the purse just in case something takes your eye.
Just a quick reminder that this month's meeting is the ribbon craft session with Lynda Kinnard. If you want to enjoy having a go at making the greetings card decorated with ribbons to take home with you, please bring along £2. There will also be a sales table on the night so maybe you should drop a few extra coins into the purse just in case something takes your eye.
A Bit More Info
20 September 2011
The observant amongst you will have noticed that we have added some extra links and useful information to the column on the right hand side of this page. We now have links to bus and tram time tables and shop & PO opening times. If you think of something you would like us to link through to on this page please let someone on the committee know so we can add it. This site is for you so please make use of it and help us to make the content relevant to you.
The observant amongst you will have noticed that we have added some extra links and useful information to the column on the right hand side of this page. We now have links to bus and tram time tables and shop & PO opening times. If you think of something you would like us to link through to on this page please let someone on the committee know so we can add it. This site is for you so please make use of it and help us to make the content relevant to you.
Drama On WI Bus Tour
8 September 2011
There was drama last night when some of the passengers on the free Hucknall Heritage Bus Trip were stuck in a lift during a tour of the Bestwood Winding House. Several people on the tour, including WI members Nell, June & Barbara, became trapped in the lift for around 30 minutes. In the end the Fire Brigade were called - always a bonus! - and helped release the ladies & gents from their ordeal. There are photos in the gallery.
There was drama last night when some of the passengers on the free Hucknall Heritage Bus Trip were stuck in a lift during a tour of the Bestwood Winding House. Several people on the tour, including WI members Nell, June & Barbara, became trapped in the lift for around 30 minutes. In the end the Fire Brigade were called - always a bonus! - and helped release the ladies & gents from their ordeal. There are photos in the gallery.
Thinking Caps On!
7 September 2011
Be warned ... The Bestwood Cup Cakes - winning team from last year's Notts Federation County Quiz - are locked in a darkened room thinking up devilish questions for next year's quiz. So, if you want to stand a chance in the County Quiz 2012 get your thinking caps on and try to work out what we will be testing you on.
Be warned ... The Bestwood Cup Cakes - winning team from last year's Notts Federation County Quiz - are locked in a darkened room thinking up devilish questions for next year's quiz. So, if you want to stand a chance in the County Quiz 2012 get your thinking caps on and try to work out what we will be testing you on.
Carol's Coffee Morning Hits The Right Spot
5 September 2011
This morning's get-together, hosted by Carol, was another great success. The 7 guests enjoyed a good chat and exchanged recipes to deal with the various glut crops in their gardens, whilst Carol (ably assisted by Alistair) plied them with tea, coffee, biscuits and cakes. The raspberry & white chocolate cakes were definitely the stars of the show.
Watch out for details of the October gathering at Tanya's house, but be warned, you may have to bring your own chair!
This morning's get-together, hosted by Carol, was another great success. The 7 guests enjoyed a good chat and exchanged recipes to deal with the various glut crops in their gardens, whilst Carol (ably assisted by Alistair) plied them with tea, coffee, biscuits and cakes. The raspberry & white chocolate cakes were definitely the stars of the show.
Watch out for details of the October gathering at Tanya's house, but be warned, you may have to bring your own chair!
Links List Lengthens
29 August 2011
Two more Nottinghamshire WI groups have let us know about their web sites. We have linked through to both Clarborough WI and West Bridgford WI in the Notts WI Links section on this page (right side of the page).
Please check them out and let the committee know if you spot any good ideas we can use on our web site.
Two more Nottinghamshire WI groups have let us know about their web sites. We have linked through to both Clarborough WI and West Bridgford WI in the Notts WI Links section on this page (right side of the page).
Please check them out and let the committee know if you spot any good ideas we can use on our web site.
Caricature Evening Draws To A Close
27 August 2011
Do you recognise this lady?
Now nip over to the Gallery to check out more of those amazing drawings we did at our last meeting.
Do you recognise this lady?
Now nip over to the Gallery to check out more of those amazing drawings we did at our last meeting.
Caricature Fun At Next Meeting
21 August 2011
The next meeting of the BVWI will be on Wed 24th August at 7.15pm. David Darby will be talking about the history of caricatures & cartoons and then letting us loose with white boards & pens to have a go ourselves. Just bring along your sense of humour.
There will also be an envelope auction of the donated beauty bags so please remember to bring your 50p coins along for that.
The next meeting of the BVWI will be on Wed 24th August at 7.15pm. David Darby will be talking about the history of caricatures & cartoons and then letting us loose with white boards & pens to have a go ourselves. Just bring along your sense of humour.
There will also be an envelope auction of the donated beauty bags so please remember to bring your 50p coins along for that.
New Parish Council Web Site Launched
15 August 2011
Take a look at the new Bestwood St Albans Parish Council web site. It is still in development but is looking really good. It will be a one stop shop for everything in the village. We have added the link to our "Village Links" section (below and to the right) or you can just click here.
Take a look at the new Bestwood St Albans Parish Council web site. It is still in development but is looking really good. It will be a one stop shop for everything in the village. We have added the link to our "Village Links" section (below and to the right) or you can just click here.
WI Help Fund-Raise At Hospital Garden Party
15 August 2011
Bestwood Village WI helped the City Hospital celebrate their milestone of 25 years of bone marrow transplants. Carol Hart & Kay Brown had a home made and home grown stall at the garden party held on Sunday 14th August. Selling home grown produce & plants and home made items such as cards, knitted hats & baby clothes, sewn gift bags & patchwork and watercolour paintings, they raised over £130 for the hospital. Alongside a wealth of other stalls and entertainments it all made for a great day for patients, past & present, their families and the hospital staff from the haematology department. Here's to their next 25 years of great work.
Bestwood Village WI helped the City Hospital celebrate their milestone of 25 years of bone marrow transplants. Carol Hart & Kay Brown had a home made and home grown stall at the garden party held on Sunday 14th August. Selling home grown produce & plants and home made items such as cards, knitted hats & baby clothes, sewn gift bags & patchwork and watercolour paintings, they raised over £130 for the hospital. Alongside a wealth of other stalls and entertainments it all made for a great day for patients, past & present, their families and the hospital staff from the haematology department. Here's to their next 25 years of great work.
Cheese & Wine Evening - 10 August
8 August 2011
Hopefully you have all remembered that it is Sheila's cheese and wine evening this Wednesday 10th August. Things get started at 7pm so don't be late.
The address details were on the reminder slips given out at the July meeting but if you need location details please contact Kay through the web site, by email, or by phone on the number printed on the front of your programme. See you there!
Hopefully you have all remembered that it is Sheila's cheese and wine evening this Wednesday 10th August. Things get started at 7pm so don't be late.
The address details were on the reminder slips given out at the July meeting but if you need location details please contact Kay through the web site, by email, or by phone on the number printed on the front of your programme. See you there!
Jumble Sale & Coffee Afternoon - Saturday 13th August
4 August 2011
The Bestwood Village Community Centre will be a hub of activity on Saturday 13th August when Notts & Yorkshire Boxer Rescue hold their annual jumble sale & coffee afternoon. Admission is free and the event will be running from 2pm until 5pm. Come along and support a good cause and no doubt go home with a bargain or two!
If the parking gets a bit hectic at the venue, WI ladies are welcome to park on Kay's drive.
The Bestwood Village Community Centre will be a hub of activity on Saturday 13th August when Notts & Yorkshire Boxer Rescue hold their annual jumble sale & coffee afternoon. Admission is free and the event will be running from 2pm until 5pm. Come along and support a good cause and no doubt go home with a bargain or two!
If the parking gets a bit hectic at the venue, WI ladies are welcome to park on Kay's drive.
Plains Group Expands - Welcome to Netherfield & District WI
13 July 2011
The Plains Group of WIs that Bestwood Village WI belongs to has had a new WI join. Along with Arnold, Bestwood Village, Gedling, Mapperely, Parkdale (Carlton) and Woodthorpe we now welcome Netherfield & District WI to the Group. Our first gathering as a group of 7 will be on September 26th which will be the handover meeting from us to Woodthorpe, who will become the host WI for the year 2011/12. You can read all about the past year when Bestwood Village WI were hosts on the Group pages of our web site.
The Plains Group of WIs that Bestwood Village WI belongs to has had a new WI join. Along with Arnold, Bestwood Village, Gedling, Mapperely, Parkdale (Carlton) and Woodthorpe we now welcome Netherfield & District WI to the Group. Our first gathering as a group of 7 will be on September 26th which will be the handover meeting from us to Woodthorpe, who will become the host WI for the year 2011/12. You can read all about the past year when Bestwood Village WI were hosts on the Group pages of our web site.
The Magic Of Stained Glass
10 July 2011
The next meeting of the Bestwood Village WI on 27th July will revolve around a talk on stained glass by Rosemary Pike. The image to the left is an example of her work.
To see more visit her web page.
There will also be a sale table of stained glass items to purchase so remember to bring your purse so you can indulge in the goodies on offer.
The next meeting of the Bestwood Village WI on 27th July will revolve around a talk on stained glass by Rosemary Pike. The image to the left is an example of her work.
To see more visit her web page.
There will also be a sale table of stained glass items to purchase so remember to bring your purse so you can indulge in the goodies on offer.
Warm Welcome To New Residents
27 June 2011
Having noticed that we had no members resident in the new David Wilson Homes it was decided to make an effort to let them all know what they are missing. Leaflets (and welcome cards to the most recent arrivals) displaying the web site address were posted through letterboxes today to encourage people to take a look at our forthcoming events and consider coming along to a meeting. So, if you are a resident of the David Wilson Homes checking our our web site for the first time - Welcome! It would be great to see you at one of our meetings.
Having noticed that we had no members resident in the new David Wilson Homes it was decided to make an effort to let them all know what they are missing. Leaflets (and welcome cards to the most recent arrivals) displaying the web site address were posted through letterboxes today to encourage people to take a look at our forthcoming events and consider coming along to a meeting. So, if you are a resident of the David Wilson Homes checking our our web site for the first time - Welcome! It would be great to see you at one of our meetings.
Next Coffee Club Event - July 23rd
24 June 2011
The next BVWI coffee morning will be held at Julie's house on 23 July 10am - 12 noon.
We are still looking for a hostess for the August event.
Carol has offered to host the September event on 5 September 10am - 12 noon.
If you need directions to any of these events please drop Kay a line using the contact form.
The next BVWI coffee morning will be held at Julie's house on 23 July 10am - 12 noon.
We are still looking for a hostess for the August event.
Carol has offered to host the September event on 5 September 10am - 12 noon.
If you need directions to any of these events please drop Kay a line using the contact form.
Nottingham City WI "A Twist of Fête" - 2 July
24 June 2011
For those of you interested in attending the Nottingham City WI's summer fête please click on this link to find out all the details.
Nottingham City Wi
For those of you interested in attending the Nottingham City WI's summer fête please click on this link to find out all the details.
Nottingham City Wi
Lot of Bottle Displayed At The June Meeting
23 June 2011
When no speaker could be found to host the advertised "Wine-tasting" evening on 22 June Kay Brown, Secretary of the BVWI, showed some bottle and stepped into the breach. After a brief talk on the effects of climatic variations on a single grape variety she challenged the group to a blind tasting of 3 Chardonnay wines from around the globe. With the help of a taste wheel everyone was soon comparing the "zesty" and the "Gooseberry" with the "Pear" and the "Mango". This was all washed down in true Wimbledon style with a generous helping of scones, jam, cream and strawberries and a glass of Asti-Spumante. A good job no one drove to the meeting that night!
When no speaker could be found to host the advertised "Wine-tasting" evening on 22 June Kay Brown, Secretary of the BVWI, showed some bottle and stepped into the breach. After a brief talk on the effects of climatic variations on a single grape variety she challenged the group to a blind tasting of 3 Chardonnay wines from around the globe. With the help of a taste wheel everyone was soon comparing the "zesty" and the "Gooseberry" with the "Pear" and the "Mango". This was all washed down in true Wimbledon style with a generous helping of scones, jam, cream and strawberries and a glass of Asti-Spumante. A good job no one drove to the meeting that night!
WI Ladies Get Fruity At Village Fun Day
20th June 2011
Vice President, Carol and Secretary, Kay enticed those attending the Village Fun Day to enjoy the "fruits of summer" with the goodies on the WI stall. Fruit milkshakes, fruit punch, fruit jams & chutneys, fruit jellies, fruit muffins, fresh fruit & cream and chocolate dipped strawberries were all on offer. It was a chance for Carol's new chintzy bunting to have its début. Check it out behind the stall.
There was also a lucky dip game called "pick your own" where, for 50p, you chose 3 paper strawberries from the tree and if you were a winner you chose a prize from the basket.
The stall next door was a WI "grow your own" plant stall offering tomatoes, raspberries, broccoli, squash and much more. Many of our WI ladies and some from other groups dropped in on the stall during the day and a good time was had by all. Check out the rest of the photos in the gallery.
Vice President, Carol and Secretary, Kay enticed those attending the Village Fun Day to enjoy the "fruits of summer" with the goodies on the WI stall. Fruit milkshakes, fruit punch, fruit jams & chutneys, fruit jellies, fruit muffins, fresh fruit & cream and chocolate dipped strawberries were all on offer. It was a chance for Carol's new chintzy bunting to have its début. Check it out behind the stall.
There was also a lucky dip game called "pick your own" where, for 50p, you chose 3 paper strawberries from the tree and if you were a winner you chose a prize from the basket.
The stall next door was a WI "grow your own" plant stall offering tomatoes, raspberries, broccoli, squash and much more. Many of our WI ladies and some from other groups dropped in on the stall during the day and a good time was had by all. Check out the rest of the photos in the gallery.
Bestwood Village Fun Day 19th June
6 June 2011
The BVWI will be having a stall at the annual Village Fun Day. This will be held at the Community Centre, Moor Road on Father's Day, Sunday 19th June starting at 1.30pm. Watch this space to find out more about the event and details of the WI stall.
The BVWI will be having a stall at the annual Village Fun Day. This will be held at the Community Centre, Moor Road on Father's Day, Sunday 19th June starting at 1.30pm. Watch this space to find out more about the event and details of the WI stall.
WI on Tour
2 June 2011
It looks like we will be having 2 bus tour dates for you to choose from. The mini bus only has 14 seats so we will have to spread ourselves over two events. The proposed dates are Saturday 16 July at 10am and Wednesday 7 September at 6pm. The route will be :- Hucknall Market Place, Bestwood Winding House (tour), Bowman pub (refreshment stop), Annesley Old Church (tour), and back to Hucknall for about 9pm.
If you want to go on either of the tour dates please let Kay know as soon as possible. Although the trip is free we need to pay a refundable deposit to reserve the places so we need to know numbers very soon.
It looks like we will be having 2 bus tour dates for you to choose from. The mini bus only has 14 seats so we will have to spread ourselves over two events. The proposed dates are Saturday 16 July at 10am and Wednesday 7 September at 6pm. The route will be :- Hucknall Market Place, Bestwood Winding House (tour), Bowman pub (refreshment stop), Annesley Old Church (tour), and back to Hucknall for about 9pm.
If you want to go on either of the tour dates please let Kay know as soon as possible. Although the trip is free we need to pay a refundable deposit to reserve the places so we need to know numbers very soon.
Knitting Needles at the Ready!
1 June 2011
For the knitters amongst you please check out our new "Library" pages where you will find 2 patterns to keep you busy - the baby beanie hats for the neo-natal unit and Carol's cardigan that she modelled at the "show & tell" craft session.
For the knitters amongst you please check out our new "Library" pages where you will find 2 patterns to keep you busy - the baby beanie hats for the neo-natal unit and Carol's cardigan that she modelled at the "show & tell" craft session.
Bulb Scheme Up & Running
30 May 2011
The bulb scheme catalogues are now available. We have 8 circulating round the group so you should get a look at one very soon.
Please look through the catalogue, make your order on the form, pass the order along with your cash or cheque (made out to "Bestwood Village WI") to June before end of June. We will remind you of the process at the June meeting.
The bulb scheme catalogues are now available. We have 8 circulating round the group so you should get a look at one very soon.
Please look through the catalogue, make your order on the form, pass the order along with your cash or cheque (made out to "Bestwood Village WI") to June before end of June. We will remind you of the process at the June meeting.
Select Band Attend Coffee Morning
30 May 2011
The torrential downpour this morning (along with the alternative temptations of Take That in Sunderland) may have been the reason only 5 guests struggled through the elements to attend Kay's coffee morning. Those who made the trek were rewarded with cheesy rabbits, chicken wellingtons, butterfly cakes, marshmallow chrysanthemum cakes and fridge cake. Let's hope the weather improves in time for the next gathering of the coffee club.
The torrential downpour this morning (along with the alternative temptations of Take That in Sunderland) may have been the reason only 5 guests struggled through the elements to attend Kay's coffee morning. Those who made the trek were rewarded with cheesy rabbits, chicken wellingtons, butterfly cakes, marshmallow chrysanthemum cakes and fridge cake. Let's hope the weather improves in time for the next gathering of the coffee club.
WI Members Help Out With Village Vision Litter Pick
28 May 2011
There was no lie-in for Secretary, Kay Brown or Vice-President, Carol Hart today as they turned out to help with the Bestwood Village Vision litter pick event which kicked off at 10am. After coffee at St Mark's Church, and a quick lesson in the use of the litter grabber, they were off down the length of Moor Road and the side roads in Mill Bank. Their team collected 5 bags of rubbish and 1 bag or recycling (cans, plastic bottles etc). All the volunteers returned to the church for a well earned buffet lunch at 12 noon. The village looks at its very best now it has been tidied up, so woe-betide anyone dropping litter in the village now!
There was no lie-in for Secretary, Kay Brown or Vice-President, Carol Hart today as they turned out to help with the Bestwood Village Vision litter pick event which kicked off at 10am. After coffee at St Mark's Church, and a quick lesson in the use of the litter grabber, they were off down the length of Moor Road and the side roads in Mill Bank. Their team collected 5 bags of rubbish and 1 bag or recycling (cans, plastic bottles etc). All the volunteers returned to the church for a well earned buffet lunch at 12 noon. The village looks at its very best now it has been tidied up, so woe-betide anyone dropping litter in the village now!
Bank Holiday Coffee Morning
24 May 2011
Kay will be hosting a coffee morning on Bank Holiday Monday 30th May 10am 'til noon. All the details of where to find her will be available at tomorrow's meeting so don't forget to pick up an invite slip. See you there.
Kay will be hosting a coffee morning on Bank Holiday Monday 30th May 10am 'til noon. All the details of where to find her will be available at tomorrow's meeting so don't forget to pick up an invite slip. See you there.
That's The Way To Do It
24 May 2011
Our WI Adviser, Sandra Thornley, paid a very welcome visit to the recently appointed officials of our committee to lend them a helping hand in understanding the small print of how to run a successful WI. Over a coffee and a cake (or two) Sandra talked us through the finer points of gift aid, petty cash, minute taking and other mystifying details of the WI handbook. A very useful evening which we would recommend to any new WI officials - there is so much great supporting information out there and your adviser can help you discover and make sense of it all. Thanks, Sandra!
Our WI Adviser, Sandra Thornley, paid a very welcome visit to the recently appointed officials of our committee to lend them a helping hand in understanding the small print of how to run a successful WI. Over a coffee and a cake (or two) Sandra talked us through the finer points of gift aid, petty cash, minute taking and other mystifying details of the WI handbook. A very useful evening which we would recommend to any new WI officials - there is so much great supporting information out there and your adviser can help you discover and make sense of it all. Thanks, Sandra!
Sad News
19 May 2011
We are sad to announce the death of one of our founder members, Diana Langley. Diana passed away peacefully yesterday evening after a courageous and inspiring fight against cancer. She will be remembered fondly by many of our members and our thoughts are with her friends and family. A card will be available to sign at the meeting next Wednesday for those that knew her.
We are sad to announce the death of one of our founder members, Diana Langley. Diana passed away peacefully yesterday evening after a courageous and inspiring fight against cancer. She will be remembered fondly by many of our members and our thoughts are with her friends and family. A card will be available to sign at the meeting next Wednesday for those that knew her.
Group Event Photos in Gallery
7 May 2011
A selection of photos from the Plains Group event held on 4 May are now posted in the Gallery section. Click here to have a look. A write up of the evening can be found in the Group and Federation / Plains Group Events page here.
A selection of photos from the Plains Group event held on 4 May are now posted in the Gallery section. Click here to have a look. A write up of the evening can be found in the Group and Federation / Plains Group Events page here.
Men Allowed at WI Event
5 May 2011
Last night Bestwood Village WI hosted the Plains Groups annual event. This year the entertainment was provided by Bestwood Male Voice Choir, their musical director Mirek Rus and their pianist Glenys Skidmore. An audience of around 90 enjoyed an evening of wonderful singing with a variety of music ranging from songs from the shows, through Northumberland folk tunes, to Nessun Dorma. For the finale the audience joined with the choir to lift the rafters with a rousing chorus of Jerusalem (what else ?) No one went home hungry as the buffet was both tasty & bountiful. A full set of photos will be posted in the gallery very soon.
Last night Bestwood Village WI hosted the Plains Groups annual event. This year the entertainment was provided by Bestwood Male Voice Choir, their musical director Mirek Rus and their pianist Glenys Skidmore. An audience of around 90 enjoyed an evening of wonderful singing with a variety of music ranging from songs from the shows, through Northumberland folk tunes, to Nessun Dorma. For the finale the audience joined with the choir to lift the rafters with a rousing chorus of Jerusalem (what else ?) No one went home hungry as the buffet was both tasty & bountiful. A full set of photos will be posted in the gallery very soon.
Bank Holiday Garden Party
2 May 2011
Well, the weather stayed fine, if a little breezy, for Barbara's garden tea party today. Her garden looked a picture with something for everyone to enjoy, including plants, ponds and even a model railway! Tea, cakes and conversation were all enjoyed with relish, including some flower themed cakes baked by Kay - the novice baker - pictured here.
It's amazing what you can do with a packed of mini marshmallows!
See if you can spot yourself in the photos in the gallery.
Well, the weather stayed fine, if a little breezy, for Barbara's garden tea party today. Her garden looked a picture with something for everyone to enjoy, including plants, ponds and even a model railway! Tea, cakes and conversation were all enjoyed with relish, including some flower themed cakes baked by Kay - the novice baker - pictured here.
It's amazing what you can do with a packed of mini marshmallows!
See if you can spot yourself in the photos in the gallery.
Growing Interest in April Meeting
1 May 2011
Steve Routledge from Floral Media received an enthusiastic welcome from the membership on Wednesday 27th April when he delivered his talk on growing your own fruit & veg. The science of soil type & pH were discussed along with crop rotation plans and pest control methods. However, rather than a pre-written talk it was more akin to our own episode of "Gardener's Question Time" with Steve fielding questions from the audience on every topic from, when to prune your raspberries, to how to improve the plants growing in the shade of a conifer hedge. We all went away a little wiser and much inspired to try a bit harder to grow our own.
The plant sale was very popular so I guess we all know what the WI members of Bestwood Village were up to on the Bank Holiday weekend - planting of course!
Steve Routledge from Floral Media received an enthusiastic welcome from the membership on Wednesday 27th April when he delivered his talk on growing your own fruit & veg. The science of soil type & pH were discussed along with crop rotation plans and pest control methods. However, rather than a pre-written talk it was more akin to our own episode of "Gardener's Question Time" with Steve fielding questions from the audience on every topic from, when to prune your raspberries, to how to improve the plants growing in the shade of a conifer hedge. We all went away a little wiser and much inspired to try a bit harder to grow our own.
The plant sale was very popular so I guess we all know what the WI members of Bestwood Village were up to on the Bank Holiday weekend - planting of course!
Bestwood Male Voice Choir Concert
24th April 2011
The last few tickets are available for this Plains Group event on 4th May at 7pm. Please see Julie at the next meeting to secure your ticket for £2.50.
The last few tickets are available for this Plains Group event on 4th May at 7pm. Please see Julie at the next meeting to secure your ticket for £2.50.
Bank Holiday Garden Party
24th April 2011
Monday 2 May 2pm to 4pm we will all be gathering at Barbara's house for afternoon tea. The weather looks set fair for us to admire the garden and enjoy the tea & cakes so see you all there!
Monday 2 May 2pm to 4pm we will all be gathering at Barbara's house for afternoon tea. The weather looks set fair for us to admire the garden and enjoy the tea & cakes so see you all there!
Christmas Arrives in April
14 April 2011
Fellow Plains Group members Parkdale (Carlton) WI held their Christmas party last night. It had originally been snowed off and was eventually revamped as an Easter Party. The entertainment included the usual magnificent buffet, a tombola, Christmas present lucky dip, a talk by Sheila Whitfield on millinery in the theatre and an Easter Bonnet Parade. Tanya, Kath & Kay attended from BVWI and had a wonderful time. Maybe more Christmas parties should be held in April to share out the festive spirit throughout the year.
Fellow Plains Group members Parkdale (Carlton) WI held their Christmas party last night. It had originally been snowed off and was eventually revamped as an Easter Party. The entertainment included the usual magnificent buffet, a tombola, Christmas present lucky dip, a talk by Sheila Whitfield on millinery in the theatre and an Easter Bonnet Parade. Tanya, Kath & Kay attended from BVWI and had a wonderful time. Maybe more Christmas parties should be held in April to share out the festive spirit throughout the year.
Bestwood Cupcakes Win Notts Federation County Quiz
8 April
Julie, Carol and Kay (aka The Bestwood Cupcakes) proudly pose with their cup and vouchers for being the winners of this year's County Quiz.
Well done ladies!
Julie, Carol and Kay (aka The Bestwood Cupcakes) proudly pose with their cup and vouchers for being the winners of this year's County Quiz.
Well done ladies!
Federation Events
7 April 2011
Check out all the forthcoming events on the Federation page. There's lots of things on offer. If you're interested in any of the events sign up at the next meeting.
Check out all the forthcoming events on the Federation page. There's lots of things on offer. If you're interested in any of the events sign up at the next meeting.
May Coffee Club Meeting
7 April 2011
The May coffee morning will be held at Kay's house on BH Monday 30th May, 10am to Noon. This will be in addition to the Garden Party at Barbara's on the BH Monday 2 May. Two for the price of one this month! Reminder slips for both events will be available at the April meeting.
The May coffee morning will be held at Kay's house on BH Monday 30th May, 10am to Noon. This will be in addition to the Garden Party at Barbara's on the BH Monday 2 May. Two for the price of one this month! Reminder slips for both events will be available at the April meeting.
Bestwood Village WI Quiz Team Win the Cup
31 March 2011
Carol was presented with the Notts Federation Annual Quiz trophy yesterday during the ACM at the Concert Hall. Photos of the winning team and their cup will be available as soon as we have got over the shock and can hold a camera steady!
Carol was presented with the Notts Federation Annual Quiz trophy yesterday during the ACM at the Concert Hall. Photos of the winning team and their cup will be available as soon as we have got over the shock and can hold a camera steady!
March Meeting - Recipe for Success
26 March 2011
Nell's oat cakes went down a storm at the monthly meeting we held on Wednesday evening. Jackie, the speaker from WaterAid made a special mention of them and asked for the recipe. So to avoid any disappointment we have put the recipe on the web for everyone to enjoy. Just click on the link below to download the recipe.
Happy baking!
Nell's oat cakes went down a storm at the monthly meeting we held on Wednesday evening. Jackie, the speaker from WaterAid made a special mention of them and asked for the recipe. So to avoid any disappointment we have put the recipe on the web for everyone to enjoy. Just click on the link below to download the recipe.
Happy baking!
| oat_cakes.pdf |
April Coffee Club Meeting Confirmed
21 March 2011
Ladies. We can confirm that the April coffee morning will be on the 11th April at Nell and June's house.
Usual time 10am - Noon. See you there.
Ladies. We can confirm that the April coffee morning will be on the 11th April at Nell and June's house.
Usual time 10am - Noon. See you there.
Plains Group Banner Panel Picture
18 March 2011
If you want a sneaky view of our Plains Group Banner contribution have a look in the Accomplishments section of the Gallery just here.
If you want a sneaky view of our Plains Group Banner contribution have a look in the Accomplishments section of the Gallery just here.
New Photos in the Gallery
14 March 2011
There are some new photos in the gallery covering Christmas 2010 and the 5th Birthday party.
There are some new photos in the gallery covering Christmas 2010 and the 5th Birthday party.
May Garden Party
14 March 2011
Barbara Turner has agreed to host a tea party in her garden rather than the usual coffee morning. This way, along with all those lovely cakes, we will also get to enjoy the wonderful show of bulbs in her garden - which are in part a result of the WI bulb scheme. The event will be on the Bank Holiday Monday, 2 May between 2 and 4 pm. You can contact the committee for details of the location.
Barbara Turner has agreed to host a tea party in her garden rather than the usual coffee morning. This way, along with all those lovely cakes, we will also get to enjoy the wonderful show of bulbs in her garden - which are in part a result of the WI bulb scheme. The event will be on the Bank Holiday Monday, 2 May between 2 and 4 pm. You can contact the committee for details of the location.
April Coffee Club Meeting
13 March 2011
Nell and June have kindly offered to host the next coffee morning. This will be held during the Easter holidays - the date is still to be confirmed - watch this space!
Nell and June have kindly offered to host the next coffee morning. This will be held during the Easter holidays - the date is still to be confirmed - watch this space!
23rd March Meeting - WaterAid
12 March 2011
This month's meeting will be a fun talk about the charity WaterAid. Bring your pennies along as there will be the usual raffle as well as a sales table with things such as plants and craft items for sale.
Tickets for the May Group Event - the BMVC Concert - will also be on sale at £2.50 each.
This month's meeting will be a fun talk about the charity WaterAid. Bring your pennies along as there will be the usual raffle as well as a sales table with things such as plants and craft items for sale.
Tickets for the May Group Event - the BMVC Concert - will also be on sale at £2.50 each.
5th Birthday Party
24 February 2011
The ladies all had a good time at the 5th birthday party with 20 of the members attending (there we are on the left).
As well as the festivities a whole new set of officials were elected.
We now have
President - Tanya Jones
Secretary - Kay Brown
Treasurer - Sheila Pearson
Vice president - Carol Hart
Well done to all of you and here's to the next 12 months.
The ladies all had a good time at the 5th birthday party with 20 of the members attending (there we are on the left).
As well as the festivities a whole new set of officials were elected.
We now have
President - Tanya Jones
Secretary - Kay Brown
Treasurer - Sheila Pearson
Vice president - Carol Hart
Well done to all of you and here's to the next 12 months.
5th Birthday Celebrations Tonight
23 February 2011
Tonight's the night we celebrate our 5th birthday. There'll also be the selection of the new Officials and Committee as well as the normal fun and chat.
We'll be listening to some of the Officers’ memories and there's cheese and wine and a quiz based on the latest "WI Life" magazine.
Come along and join in the celebrations.
Happy Birthday
Tonight's the night we celebrate our 5th birthday. There'll also be the selection of the new Officials and Committee as well as the normal fun and chat.
We'll be listening to some of the Officers’ memories and there's cheese and wine and a quiz based on the latest "WI Life" magazine.
Come along and join in the celebrations.
Happy Birthday
March Coffee Club Meeting
23 February 2011
The next Coffee Morning will be held at Marie's house on 7th March. Put in in your diary and look out for further details later.
The next Coffee Morning will be held at Marie's house on 7th March. Put in in your diary and look out for further details later.
2011 Programme of Events
24 January 2011
The full programme of events is now available. All members will be getting a printed version but an up to date version is available on the "2011 Programme of Events" page.
You can also find details of Coffee Club meetings throughout the year so keep an eye out for an event you fancy.
The full programme of events is now available. All members will be getting a printed version but an up to date version is available on the "2011 Programme of Events" page.
You can also find details of Coffee Club meetings throughout the year so keep an eye out for an event you fancy.
January's Meeting - 26 January - Making Birthday Cards
1 January 2011
As usual our January meeting will involve making birthday cards to send to members of the group in the coming year. Any extras will be available for sale on the night.
Come along to the Community Centre at 7.15pm armed with ideas, inspiration and enthusiasm.
As always new members would be most welcome. Have a look on the "Meetings" tab at the top of the page for more details.
As usual our January meeting will involve making birthday cards to send to members of the group in the coming year. Any extras will be available for sale on the night.
Come along to the Community Centre at 7.15pm armed with ideas, inspiration and enthusiasm.
As always new members would be most welcome. Have a look on the "Meetings" tab at the top of the page for more details.
Coffee Club Meeting - Monday 3rd Jan 10am-12noon
1 January 2011
Happy new year everyone.
We're really excited about the coming year. We have a packed schedule of great events being planned for the 2011 program and as you can see the Coffee Mornings are becoming a regular and very popular event. The next Coffee Club Meeting is at Carol's house. If you're not sure of her address drop her a mail on her email address president@bestwoodvillagewi.org.uk
Hope to see you there
Happy new year everyone.
We're really excited about the coming year. We have a packed schedule of great events being planned for the 2011 program and as you can see the Coffee Mornings are becoming a regular and very popular event. The next Coffee Club Meeting is at Carol's house. If you're not sure of her address drop her a mail on her email address president@bestwoodvillagewi.org.uk
Hope to see you there
November Poster Available
Christmas is fast approaching and we'll be putting our talents to good use preparing for the festive occasion.
Fund-raiser photos
8 October 2010
A great night at the fund-raiser evening (and the boiler worked!). We raised over £300. See some of the snaps in the Gallery.
A great night at the fund-raiser evening (and the boiler worked!). We raised over £300. See some of the snaps in the Gallery.
Trip Down Memory Lane
3 October 2010
Have a look in the Accomplishments page to see a great photo from 2006 showing the original founder members
Click here
Have a look in the Accomplishments page to see a great photo from 2006 showing the original founder members
Click here
WHO ARE WE?
Bestwood Village Women's Institute are a relatively small group and you
are definitely guaranteed a warm and friendly welcome at our meetings which are held on the 4th Wednesday of the month. We also hold monthly free coffee club meetings in members' homes that you can enjoy.
OFFICIALS
President - Brenda Langsdale
Secretary - Kay Brown
Treasurer - Sheila Pearson
Vice President - Eileen Donnison
Programme Sec - Carol Hart
MEMBERSHIP
Current membership - 25
Charity No: 1015139
OFFICIALS
President - Brenda Langsdale
Secretary - Kay Brown
Treasurer - Sheila Pearson
Vice President - Eileen Donnison
Programme Sec - Carol Hart
MEMBERSHIP
Current membership - 25
Charity No: 1015139
NATIONAL LINKS
The WI web site
(which now has a search facility for your local WI group based on your postcode)
Denman College
The MOODLE
(which now has a search facility for your local WI group based on your postcode)
Denman College
The MOODLE
NOTTS FED WI LINKS
COUNTY HOUSE
The opening times of the federation office at Trent Bridge House, Beastmarket Hill, Newark, Nottinghamshire. NG24 1BN
are as follows:
Mon–Wed 10am – 3pm
Fri 10am – 12.30pm.
Contact Rosemary, Heather & Fiona on :-
Email : nottsfedwi@tiscali.co.uk
Tel: 01636 67 3550
The Nottinghamshire Federation web pages are here:- Nottinghamsire Federation
You can download documents & booking forms.
WI ADVISERS
These ladies are on hand to give help and advise to you about all aspects of the WI.
They can attend your annual meeting or your committee meetings or just offer help on the end of a phone or email.
To get in touch on any WI matters :-
wiadviser.nottsfed@gmail.com
or check out their phone numbers in the Year Book.
GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR
Kay Brown is the new Groups co-ordinator. If you have any questions about any matters concerning your WI group you should direct them to Kay using the
wiadviser.nottsfed@gmail.com
email address.
...............................................................................
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE WI WEBSITES
Brookside (Mansfield) WI
(Nottingham) City WI
Clarborough WI
Gedling WI
Scarrington WI
Sutton & Barnby Moor WI
Watnall WI
West Bridgford WI
The opening times of the federation office at Trent Bridge House, Beastmarket Hill, Newark, Nottinghamshire. NG24 1BN
are as follows:
Mon–Wed 10am – 3pm
Fri 10am – 12.30pm.
Contact Rosemary, Heather & Fiona on :-
Email : nottsfedwi@tiscali.co.uk
Tel: 01636 67 3550
The Nottinghamshire Federation web pages are here:- Nottinghamsire Federation
You can download documents & booking forms.
WI ADVISERS
These ladies are on hand to give help and advise to you about all aspects of the WI.
They can attend your annual meeting or your committee meetings or just offer help on the end of a phone or email.
To get in touch on any WI matters :-
wiadviser.nottsfed@gmail.com
or check out their phone numbers in the Year Book.
GROUPS CO-ORDINATOR
Kay Brown is the new Groups co-ordinator. If you have any questions about any matters concerning your WI group you should direct them to Kay using the
wiadviser.nottsfed@gmail.com
email address.
...............................................................................
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE WI WEBSITES
Brookside (Mansfield) WI
(Nottingham) City WI
Clarborough WI
Gedling WI
Scarrington WI
Sutton & Barnby Moor WI
Watnall WI
West Bridgford WI
VILLAGE LINKS
Bestwood Village website
Bestwood St Albans Parish Council
Village Vision
St Mark's Church
Friends of Bestwood Country Park
Country Park
Bestwood Male Voice Choir
Bestwood Black Diamonds Band
Hawthorne Primary School
(often unavailable)
Post Office opening times
(nb: these are the PO counter opening times.)
O.J's Thoroughgoods store opens as below -
Mon - Fri 6.30am to 8.30pm
Sat 7.00am to 8.30pm
Sun 7.00am to 8.00pm
141 Bus timetable
228 Bus timetable
Tram timetables
Wherecanwego Check this website out
for ideas of things to do and places to visit
Library bus visit dates:
9.55am @ St Mark's Church on Thursday every 4 weeks:-
6 June
4 July
1 August
29 August
26 September
24 October
21 November
19 December
Bestwood St Albans Parish Council
Village Vision
St Mark's Church
Friends of Bestwood Country Park
Country Park
Bestwood Male Voice Choir
Bestwood Black Diamonds Band
Hawthorne Primary School
(often unavailable)
Post Office opening times
(nb: these are the PO counter opening times.)
O.J's Thoroughgoods store opens as below -
Mon - Fri 6.30am to 8.30pm
Sat 7.00am to 8.30pm
Sun 7.00am to 8.00pm
141 Bus timetable
228 Bus timetable
Tram timetables
Wherecanwego Check this website out
for ideas of things to do and places to visit
Library bus visit dates:
9.55am @ St Mark's Church on Thursday every 4 weeks:-
6 June
4 July
1 August
29 August
26 September
24 October
21 November
19 December
