Knitted fun and some jammy creations at annual WI show

Teddies, jams and flowers filled a Garstang hotel as Lancashire WI Federation held its annual show.
Lynne Hudson with her willow basketLynne Hudson with her willow basket
Lynne Hudson with her willow basket

Hundreds of women and their families gathered at Garstang Country Hotel and Golf Club to showcase their talents.

There were more than 3,000 entries in the field of flower arranging, baking, vegetable growing, sugar crafts, preserves, arts and crafts.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Pam Wade, chairman of the show committee, said: “The event was very well attended. We had more people this year, especially as we have new WIs that entered the show for the first time.

Jayne Rear with her Etui boxJayne Rear with her Etui box
Jayne Rear with her Etui box

“It involves the whole of the Lancashire Federation and is a grand day out for all members.

“It is very competitive, as people enter their goods. They are judged and rewarded points.

“Several members worked as a team and won trophies in different classes. They are awarded points for first, second and third.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“It was a chance for them to try out their skills and find out how they can improve. People can produce an outstanding variety of things.

Liz Walker and her cherry cakeLiz Walker and her cherry cake
Liz Walker and her cherry cake

“We had more than 3,000 entries, which is spectacular.

“They entered on a vast number of categories, including preserves, cookery, needlework, craftwork, flower arranging, confectionary, sugarcraft, arts and horticultural.

“We also had a honey section as one of our resolutions was to save the honey bee.

“A few years ago the members’ husbands asked if they could enter, so we introduced a men’s baking category. They have been coming on leaps and bounds. Children also took part.

Nelly the elephant at 
Lancashire WI Federation County ShowNelly the elephant at 
Lancashire WI Federation County Show
Nelly the elephant at Lancashire WI Federation County Show
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We had more than 1,500 teddies as part of our charity item for Teddies for Tragedies, where we knitted them for children who are in need. They were everywhere and very cute. The children loved them.

“We want to thank people who supported the event and we hope they look out for us next year.

“We always welcome new members if people wish to join us.

“The Garstang Country Hotel and Golf Club is also an excellent venue. We have been going there for 20 years.”

Related topics: