Dumbleton's Birthday Party

What a night! Dumbleton Village Hall, ladies from seven neighbouring WIs and Dick Brice. I've seldom received a warmer welcome - arriving together with Liz and Rosemary - Delphina was on hand to make sure we knew what's what and were comfortable. But no sooner had we stepped inside the door than we were surrounded by so many friends, all of whom wanted to say hello - delightful!

We caught up with news, heard how very much members had enjoyed last week's meeting in Winchcombe and chatted about this and that in such a happy atmosphere. So many familiar faces, so many friends to catch up with - the evening was too short. It was great to see Sheila there, making a good recovery from the dreadful accident in the Summer when three of our oldest members lost their lives. Good to learn too, that Wendy is making good progress and the opportunity was taken to send love and best wishes. Several members referred to the Echo article, expressing concern and confusion - this was not their experience of the WI at all, and they wanted to express their support, which was great.

Dick Brice was - well, Dick Brice! Fantastic entertainment, some were laughing so much that tears rolled down their faces. Jo gave a wonderful thank you and told Dick that he could return home a proud man, for he had made 100 women very happy in one evening. I believe he blushed!!

Although we'd been sitting around tables, cabaret-style, nibbling little savouries all evening, there was a surprise in store - a birthday cake was brought to each table and if ours was anything to go by, there are some fantastic cooks in Dumbleton. It was yummy! With a glass of wine in hand, we celebrated Dumbleton's 40th and looked forward to their 50th when we hope to persuade them to do it all again.

(You had some really great ideas, Jenny: the "surprise raffle", the spot prizes on the chairs and of course, the yummy cake on every table! Thank you so much for a terrific evening)