Chidham and Hambrook Village - everyday

Chidham WI comprises women from all walks of life and backgrounds . We are out going and friendly - we are always delighted to welcome new members, wherever you live. Stuffy we are not!
At our meetings we have interesting speakers, lively discussions and a good tea! We have frequent outings and activities in addition to the main programme. Friends and partners are welcome on trips when space allows.

2008 Rain didn't stop play at the “Garden” meeting due to be held in Pauline Dowse's lovely garden. The Village Hall was transformed for the afternoon with plants, greenery and other garden items.

The theme was continued on the sales table which raised over £40.

The raffle, organized by Bianca Harrison, featured a lovely range of baskets planted creatively by her. (see picture)

Three members reported on their weekend at Denman College. Their chosen courses were the English country house, basic plumbing and wiring, and aspects of T'ai Chi. They all spoke very highly of the general facilities, atmosphere and teaching and encouraged members to book courses for themselves

News from National Conference
As delegate for the Group, Gillian Hale, gave a very interesting account of the AGM in Liverpool , which she which she will be reporting to other institutes in the immediate area... The debate on the resolutions raised strong feelings resulting in a defeat for the ban on bottom trawling, whilst there was significant support for the provision of more appropriate facilities for prisoners with mental health problems.

On a lighter note, Sandy Toksvig's talk had them rolling in the aisles!

Community Policing – A Name in Every Neighbourhood
“I've never done this before”, confessed PCSO Bruce Ives last Tuesday. Fortunately he was only referring to giving a talk to the WI on community policing.

With a background in the navy and nursing, his move to community policing draws on skills already established. His friendly and approachable manner, combined with practical local knowledge makes for effective action on his patch.

He emphasised that reporting even minor incidents is important to build up a complete picture of criminal activities in our area, and that villagers are the eyes and ears of the community.

Don't be afraid to call 0845 60 70 999 or contact www.sussex.police.uk

Chidham WI Walks Programme
Wednesday, 18th June - Fishbourne, Apuldram and Dell Quay ( 3-4 miles)
Meet Fishbourne car park at 10.00am   Thursday, 17th July – Binderton, The Trundle and Lavant (5 ½ miles )
Meet at Royal Oak 10.00am
Friday, 15 th August – Trundle Trail (5 miles)
Tuesday, 2nd September – Wetlands Centre, Arundel.
Meet at Wetlands car park 10.30am
Monday, 6th October – Chidham to Southbourne returning via orchards (3 miles)

Report on the Resolutions Meeting held on Tuesday 13th May.

WI Campaign

Grass roots democracy was in action this week as members debated the two resolutions which will be considered at the annual conference in Liverpool in June.

The evident enthusiasm of the speaker for her craft made for an enthralling afternoon. The exhibition of lace brought by members proved to be full of interest and heirlooms.

In next month's meeting on May 13th Resolutions to go forward to the AGM will be debated by members. This usually makes for a lively meeting.

A working party gathered to chase out the spiders in the village hall.

Jan 22nd Pallant House Visit

Sixteen WI members and one husband met at Pallant House Gallery for a guided tour of the works displayed there. The theme was “Highlights of the Collection”.

The guides helped us focus on the artists as well as their work. The time passed so quickly that most people would have liked a longer tour. We will certainly make a return visit to study a further theme.

Thank you Pallant House Gallery.
Margaret Blott

Jan 15th - Fish and Chip Lunch
Twenty three WI members met at Renwood House last week on the wettest day of the year so far for a fish and chip lunch organised by the Social Committee. It was an event much enjoyed by all and certainly brightened up a dreadful day. Thanks to everyone concerned.

TASTER MORNING, September 2007

We had a successful social and educational get-together on the 25 th September, when members brought delicious food for tasting and the relevant recipes for us to try at home later.

The tables were decorated with vines and crab apples, which made the food - cakes, biscuits, scones, cheesecakes, jam, lemon curd, marmalade, pate - look even more inviting and everyone was eager to start the tasting. We had to be patient, however, since each cook was asked to present her offering by describing the origin of the recipe she had used and giving any advice necessary to ensure a good result.

The following recipes were brought and much enjoyed.

Raspberry Jam, Seville Orange Marmalade, Lemon Curd , Cheese and Tea Scones , Weetabix Cake , Raspberry Cheesecake , Upside-down Cake , Oat and Raisin Slices , Tebay Crunch , Boil and Bake Fruit Cake , Lemon Barbash , Dorset Apple Cake , Aubergine Slices , Farmhouse Pate

A varied menu for all who came - and nobody needed any lunch!