It was beautiful summer evening, when the members of Storridge WI welcomed over thirty visitors, to share in the celebrations to mark their 80th anniversary. The hall had been decorated with flower arrangements in the afternoon in preparation for the party and a large birthday cake was provided.

After the welcome, the evening started with our guest speaker, Mrs Janet Woodfield. Janet is a retired NAFAS flower demonstrator, who was persuaded to “come out of retirement” for the evening. Not only is Janet a superb flower arranger, but she also has a wonderful sense of humour and kept everyone laughing throughout her demonstration. She arranged five superb designs, and later in the evening these design were part of the raffle prizes.

Everyone who attended the party was invited to wear a button-hole or corsage and Janet was asked to judge our efforts. First prize went to Jane Munford. Jane was also a member of the winning team in the flower quiz getting a staggering nineteen questions right (out of twenty).

After a lovely supper that had been prepared by members, our President, Catherine Best gave a very brief history of our WI. She talked of past meeting halls, of past presidents and the role that Storridge WI played during WW11. She also explained why Storridge WI comes under Worcestershire Federation and spoke of traditions that we continue today, like the Hostess for the evening giving a motto and the members competition that is held each month.

It was a lovely evening made “extra special” by the large number of visitors who came along to join our Members as they marked this very significant milestone.

Our next meeting will be held on 14th July when our speaker will be the well know authority on Herefordshire, Mrs Penny Platt, who will be telling us about “The History of Cider”. Visitors will be most welcome.