WI

OPENING the branch’s first meeting of 2016, president Judy Lile congratulated Shirley Ferguson and her husband, John, who celebrated their golden wedding anniversary on New Year’s Day. Then, members were invited to read their favourite poem. The group heard a wide selection of poems; poignant, amusing and thought-provoking. Members agreed this was a most enjoyable way to start the new year.The raffle was won by Maurine Edwards.The following meeting, entitled Ceredigion Federation Digital Stories, consisted of a recorded collection of brief talks given by members of various branches of Ceredigion WIs, and included contributions from two Llanilar members, Siân Richards and Eirlys Jones. In speaking about themselves and their interests, or about their branch of the WI, participants confirmed that the WI organisation is made up of people from differing back-grounds and with a wide range of interests. One theme which emerged constantly throughout was that their involvement enables them to make new friends, get involved in the community and develop interests. The raffle was won by Barbara Awty.Next came a visit to the annual pantomime in Aberystwyth Arts Centre. Led by Richard Cheshire, Ioan Guile and other stalwarts, it proved once again to be an evening of pure fun, guaranteed to raise the spirits. How lucky we are to have such talent on our doorsteps!Aneurin Roberts, Ceredigion co-ordinator of the Welsh Air Ambulance, was the guest speaker in the last meeting of January. He gave members an insight into the work of the life-saving voluntary organisation. Since its launch on St David’s Day 2001, when it provided a five-day-a-week service, it has expanded to a seven-day-a-week service provided by three air ambulances in Wales, and has carried out 23,000 missions. The entire £6m needed annually is raised by the people of Wales. Judy presented Mr Roberts with a cheque for £400, which was raised at a coffee morning held in Llanilar organised by the local WI and craft club. Janet Webb won the raffle prize.35353535