The monthly main meeting of the Bude WI was held at the Bude Methodist Church Hall on the evening of February 8 and the President, Carol Sparham, greeted 66 members and five visitors. 

Although those assembled continued to follow COVID precautions, and there was no singing of Jerusalem, an air of near pre-COVID normality prevailed. The group appears to be getting back to business as usual with many members having taken advantage during the last month of joining in with many outings and workshops.  

The main speaker for the evening was Wailim Wong. Mr Wong represented the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). He wanted to tell the group, and get them to help to spread the word, that although CAB did not currently have a regular office in Bude, they were still very much here for everyone at every stage of their life, carrying out a similar role to when they first commenced operation in 1939. Mr Wong showed the membership two advertising films, one showing the most common problems at the start of WWII and an up to date production. Although some of the problems had changed, no problems nowadays with the need for rationing coupons, but the main theme was any problem people didn’t know how to solve they can always contact the CAB, either by phone or on line, and they will always do their best to assist. It is hoped that suitable premises, at a sensible rent, will soon be available in Bude. So if anyone needs help, or if they know of suitable premises, or wish to volunteer their time and experience, then they should contact the Cornwall CAB. Margaret Burch thanked Mr Wong on behalf of the group.

Next month, March, will be the annual meeting when a new committee and president will be elected and a cheque will be presented to the current charity of the year, the Bude First Responders.  A further election will be held to choose the new charity of the year.  This will be chosen by a vote by the membership from the charities nominated.

Those present were invited to join many upcoming events including a four corner day (workshop), an Indian day of colour (dancing, yoga, henna tattoos, lunch) and a New Year lunch at Widemouth Manor. During the last month many had attended special interest groups. Workshops on wet felting and a visit to the English Spirit in Launceston.

After the tea break, the competition winners were announced. The Bude Bake Off, Cornish splits, was won by Jennifer Bond, second Jane Culverwell, and third Ann Cadd. The flower of the month was won by Heather Stephenson, second Jenny Dabbs and third Brenda Dunstan. The final competition, an interesting item beginning with a ‘C’, was won by Carol Sparham, second Gill Beasley, and third Cynthia May.

The next meeting will be held on March 8, 7.30pm at the Bude Methodist Church. Any lady interested in the Bude WI  is welcome to come along to the monthly meetings and can be assured of a warm welcome.