Women’s Institute looks to launch in Westbury

A new Women’s Institute (WI) group could be launched in Westbury, giving local women the opportunity to take part in regular social, educational and creative activities.

Lesley Holdway, WI adviser for the Wiltshire Federation of WIs, is inviting women to register their interest in joining a Westbury group. While several surrounding villages already have WI groups, Westbury itself does not currently have one.

A preliminary meeting will be held in March to assess interest. If enough women come forward, the group is expected to begin meeting formally in April.

“WIs are open to all women over 18 and each group decides what its meetings look like,” said Lesley.

“Groups usually meet monthly and often invite guest speakers, but many also run additional activities such as craft clubs, book groups and walking groups. Members choose the topics and activities they are interested in.

“Some local WIs have hosted talks on subjects such as henna tattoo design, while another group even created its own gin, so it really is a case of the WI being what you make of it.”

Members pay an annual subscription of £54, which includes at least 11 meetings, eight WI Life magazines and access to the national MyWI website and online learning hub.

To find out more, or register interest in joining, email lesleyholdway@wiltshirewi.org.uk