With a membership of more than 40 women Reepham WI has been diversely active over the past few months, resulting in much fellowship and firm friendships being formed.
For our August meeting we were welcomed to the Bircham Centre by the trustees and volunteers. We had short, informative talks on the renovation of the garden, the fascinating history of the building and how it came to be part of Reepham’s heritage 100 years ago, and the Reepham Archive.
We were also able to see parts of building normally not accessible by the public. What a gem this is for Reepham! However, it takes a lot of work and fundraising, especially via the charity shop, to keep it going.
In September, Peter Purdy gave a fascinating talk about the annual Roman archaeological dig at Aylsham, which takes place in August each year by keen volunteers from the community. The site is rich in Roman artefacts and the dig is keenly supported.
In October, members had fun learning Bollywood dancing, wearing saris and bindis (pictured), with a workshop by Jaya Dance.
Meanwhile, 15 Reepham WI members took part in the KindaKafe hidden history tour in September. We ventured underground via the old Pond’s shoe shop on Castle Meadow in Norwich accompanied by an interesting guide, who pointed out the remains of old buildings from the 15th century built in the ditch formed when the castle was constructed in the 11th and 12th century.
There are myths that many tunnels run beneath the city – we saw possible evidence of these, but sadly none could be accessed.
In addition to monthly meetings, other WI groups exist to cater for various interests.
For instance, the walking group arranges a long ramble exploring the Norfolk countryside and a shorter walk each month for members and friends. The final destination is always a café for tea, cake or light lunch – and plenty of chat.
We have a team competing in the county ten pin bowling tournament and they are defending their title as last season’s tournament winners – we wish them luck!
The craft group continues to meet each month producing wonderful handcrafted items. Watch out for their knitted nativity scene on show in Reepham again this Christmas.
Meanwhile, the popular WI book club continues to flourish with a monthly get-together.
Further activities and involvement are also available to members via the county federation.
Our next meeting on Thursday 21 November in St Michael’s, Reepham at 7.30 pm will be a butchery demonstration and talk by HV Graves of Briston, followed by the annual general meeting. Guests are always welcome.
On Thursday 5 December we will again be running our popular chocolate tombola stall at the Reepham Festival of Light.
Thursday 12 December – members’ traditional Christmas dinner at Bawdeswell Village Hall, 7 pm.
Thursday 19 December – monthly meeting and Christmas party at St Michael’s, Reepham, 7.30 pm.
Rita Buxton