This was a smaller meeting than usual and a hybrid one so that members could attend and take part on line. The chairman Ann Jones in her address told us that we had 21000 new members last year and introduced the virtual and WI supporters’ scheme. She announced the new plans for the continuance of the spirit of Denman College financed by the sale of the property: free online education to members and expanded regionally around the country.
The morning speaker was Ebony Ranford-Brent an English cricketer now turned commentator. She spoke well about the power of self-motivation.
The resolution on designated swimming areas in the national rivers was well presented and the specialist speakers for and against were good. It was obvious watching the vote that it would be carried but I was very glad that Winslow had voted against the motion: I think many other WIs would have done the same if their delegates had been given discretion because the resolution was too narrow and would divert funds away from cleaning up whole rivers rather than pools.
The first session after lunch was a review of achievements by the WI following past resolutions---very inspiring. Then Laura McAllister from UEFA Executive, a former footballer spoke about her rise to fame and how to get the best out of other people and oneself.
The Chairman concluded by announcing a new initiative for the WI with King Charles III on wild life conservation. Watch WI Life and the media to see its launch.