Yummy relaunch for WI

Celebrating the relaunch of Saddleworth Women’s Institute are committee members Vanessa Procter, Suzanne Thorp, Fiona Halliwell, Jennifer Whitworth, Michelle Nield, Lauren Bartlett and Lisa Powell.

Words and picture by KEN BENNETT

More than 60 women, aged 25 to 70, have signed up to the relaunched Saddleworth Women’s Institute.

The organisation held a champagne reception at its first meeting to unveil an ambitious programme, encouraging women to take part in a host of lifestyle and leisure activities.

The original Saddleworth Women’s Institute closed in March last year, but now a group of mothers in their thirties, all from professional backgrounds, have re-established the association.

Newly-elected president Vanessa Procter, said: “The response has been absolutely brilliant. There is no age limit and we actively encourage women from any background to come and join us — our branch is completely open to all.

“There is terrific enthusiasm and support by all our members and we are ready to roll out a host of sub-groups to foster and grow specific interests for them. We are looking forward to developing and promoting a whole series of exciting activities over coming months.”

The women are already planning groups to foster sporting interests, including a cycling club. There are also plans for a food and wine section, walking and other lifestyle elements. They are even looking at the possibility of launching a belly-dancing class.

The branch will support local hospice charities and the Saddleworth Olympics.

Secretary Jennifer Whitworth said: “The fresh new image portrayed by these yummy mummies has rejuvenated interest of women from the Saddleworth area in joining us.

“These are like-minded women and more experienced women who are really young at heart. Some people perceive the WI as twin sets and pearls — they couldn’t be more wrong.

“But while the new group wants a step change to the WI image, we are determined to retain the organisation’s core values.

“WI plays a unique role in providing women with educational opportunities and to build new skills, taking part in a wide variety of activities and campaign on issues relevant to them.”

Meetings will be on the first Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. Contact Vanessa Procter on 07970-732444 or Jennifer Whitworth on 07967-006362.