DWFI Annual Meeting

Six of the Belles members attended the Annual Meeting of DFWI at the Lighthouse in Poole on 16th October. The meeting was opened by the High Sheriff of Dorset who explained his role as appointed directly by the King, an institution that is a thousand years old.

The business element of the meeting included the Treasurers Report, voting on the constitution changes and details of a successful fundraiser running the tea and cake stall at Bestival where they sold 3000 cake slices !

On the downside, we were advised that 3 WIs within the Federation has been suspended because, although they had plenty of members, no-one was prepared to step up onto committee to take on the officer roles.

We were then enthralled by the first speaker, Jessica Tyson who is a harbour master and pilot at the Port of Bridgwater. She talked us through her career battling sexism at every stage in a male dominated profession, and the ships that she worked on, whilst also raising twin boys. A very inspirational woman.

After lunch - "Diddy" David Hamilton took to the stage , regaling us with stories of his long radio and TV career.

After presentation of awards, prizes and the raffle, Grace Lovelass entertained us with her unique operatic sketches. we particulatrly enjoyed her Lady Macbeth aria with a modern day twist on the words to berate her useless husband.

She also had some unique recipes for our WI to try out such as her lime jelly marshmallow cottage chees surprise !!

We were blessed with brilliant weather so enjoyed lunch outside . A good day was had by all.