Talent is certainly prolific in the WI’s in Cornwall with the stellar entries in the WI Marquee at the Royal Cornwall Show in 2023. Visitors to the show could only stare in admiration at the expertise of the members skills, writes Sheila Goldsworthy. 

The main competition for the Royal Cornwall Show Cup competition was entitled “Our Green and Pleasant Land” with Ladock the winner of this prestigious Trophy. 2nd Pendeen. 3rd Mevagissey. 4h Illogan, and 5th Bodmin Gaolbirds. The Rosemary Slee Trophy for the best cookery item, Sharon Clemens, Duloe. The Yvonne Toms Trophy for the best craft item, Ann Tyzzer, Perranuthnoe. The Nan CollierTrophy for the best floral arrangement Sue Hocking, Pendeen. 

Winners of the Barbara Reed Trophy for an item of jewellery were Janet Burden, Trevone, 2nd Joy Hadley Bodmin Gaolbirds and 3rd Ann Tyzzer Perranuthnoe. The Floral Art Competitions organized by the Floral Art and Gardening Sub committee were Wadebridge Cup ”Clouded Hills” Mandy Nicholson, St. Dominic. Smale Cup, ”Burning Gold” Mary Symonds, Duloe. Penponds Cup “God save the King” Mandy Nicholson St Dominick. Pat Ward Novice Cup “Green and Pleasant Land” Lorna Curtis. Luxulyan and Lanlivery. 

What a marvellous experience to view all this flair and aptitude from our own very special members at the Royal Cornwall Show. 

However a vital aspect of the WI Marquee is that everyone is made very welcome and many visitors are just gasping for a friendly cup of tea, a sit down and chat which the WI offers in abundance. 

This was very evident this year with the tea ladies being kept on their toes all day while old friendships and familiar faces were acknowledged.