Saddleworth WI are staying connected

Judith Devy busy sewing

Despite  the effects of the coronavirus industrious Saddleworth WI say they have kept their membership connected.

The  lockdown preventing a host of group activities,  trips, events and workshops but the group say they “have grabbed technology by the scruff of the neck” and managed to keep our members entertained, informed and most importantly, for those living alone, connected. 

Said a spokesperson: “An email newsletter has gone to members every few weeks, containing  information, tips and light-hearted items to help members get through the days and weeks before we can get back to some form of normality. 

“Our Facebook page has been busy; a weekly Virtual Walk with one clue per day and the answer revealed at the end of the week, a daily riddle and monthly book reviews. 

“Some members have returned to letter writing and become pen pals to brighten each other’s days. 

“Recipes are being exchanged at an increasing rate so we should be ready for a true WI celebration at the end of this!”

For the VE DAY 75th anniversary several members took part in STAY AT HOME STREET PARTIES, decorating their houses red, white and blue, dressing in their best forties outfits and enjoying a socially-distanced picnic in the front garden. 

After  successful fundraising last year, the group have now made donations to their nominated charities: Oldham Food Bank, Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Maggies Oldham, Francis House Children’s Hospice and Blood Bikes Manchester.

And  the  ladies  dusted off their sewing machines and produced  much-needed sets of scrubs and bags for the NHS and nursing homes.

And everal members have  been knitting little hearts for the ICU Oldham where, because of  to restricted hospital access, relatives of patients are unable to stay with their loved ones. 

“These wonderful little hearts help, just a little bit, by keeping relatives connected. One heart will stay in the patient’s hand, while the other is held by their loved one,” added the spokesperson.

When times return to ‘normal’ Saddleworth WI meet the first Wednesday each month 7pm for 7.30 pm in the Oak Room of The White Hart, Stockport Road, Lydgate, OL4 4JJ. Visitors are very welcome with a small fee of £3.  Contact us at 07763 028466 or visit us at www.saddleworthwi.com