A special anniversary was celebrated recently by the members of Bude Women’s Institute who were delighted to unveil two mosaics to mark the occasion.

The meeting on the evening of the September 13 began with president, Carol Sparham, welcoming 55 members to the Methodist Church Hall, which had been set out ‘cafe style’ with tables.

The meeting commenced with a minute’s silence to mark the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II and also two of Bude WI’s members, Joyce Manning and Gill Hobbs.

Everyone was then invited outside for a special event to mark the groups 100th anniversary celebrations.

With umbrellas aloft and the light fading, former President, Ruth Petherick, unveiled a bench facing the River Neet, near Nanny Moore’s Bridge.

This was followed by the unveiling of mosaics at either side of the bench by the president and vice president Cynthia May. Ruth then made a short but touching speech.

On return to the hall, with a glass of fizz in hand, a toast was given wishing Bude WI another 100 years. The stunning mosaics were created by Adela Webb of Moon Hare Studio, Holsworthy, with help from WI members during a day workshop at the Parkhouse Centre. Thanks were extended to Adela and to Alan Harris who kindly mounted the mosaics.

Returning to the general business, thanks were given to Joan Trewin who had organised a ‘mystery trip’ on July 18 which took the group to Lynton and Lynmouth on a very hot day, but the coach was air-conditioned and it was an excellent day out, ending up with a delicious tea provided by Clovelly WI.

The coffee morning on August 11 had raised £915 for The Pearl Exchange and thanks were given to everyone who helped make it such a success.

Another success was the WI tent at the Holsworthy & Stratton Show on August 25 organised by Bude WI, where, instead of the traditional competitions, the four participating WI’s had showcased different aspects of the WI. Bude’s contribution was craft and visitors to the tent had the opportunity to paint a wooden bookmark or make a felt flower brooch.

The flower of the month competition was won by Ann Whitsed, second Lindsey Faulkner and third Jane Culverwell. The other competition, an item more than 100 years old, was won by Joan Lashbrook who exhibited a Princess Mary Tobacco Tin from 1914, second Ruth Pearce for her family bible and third Joyce Bickerstaff an autograph book.

The president reminded everyone about the harvest supper on October 11 with the produce bring and buy. The competition will be to make the most words of at least three letters out of ‘HARVEST FESTIVAL’. Any ladies who would like to be a part of the WI are welcome to attend any of the monthly meetings as a guest.

In conclusion the meeting sang God Save the King and gave three cheers for King Charles III.