Remarkable friends

I went to Newtown WI last night, one of the worst hit by the floods with several members having to deal with the aftermath, living in caravans and other temporary accommodation. You might have expected a rather sombre meeting after the events of the summer, but not a bit of it! This was a gathering of good friends, of women who are not easily downhearted and who have been there for one another throughout the last few weeks. It was great to see everyone in such good spirits in spite of so many challenges right now and I spent a lovely evening in their company.

What's really interesting is that a remarkable friendship has developed with Amesbury WI in Wiltshire Federation. who contacted the ladies of Newtown WI at the height of the crisis and pitched in to help. They drove over to Tewkesbury with car fulls of gifts - household linens, cleaning materials, small personal things which were so gratefully received and which meant so much. Not only that, but the small messages and little thoughtful touches tucked inside the towels and blankets revealed the sincerity of their kindness. Lots of treasures had been gathered into a scrapbook which was circulated for all to see - recording the start of what I'm sure will be a long standing friendship.

At the meeting last night, President June opened wine and chocolates, further kindnesses from their Amesbury WI friends and plans were made for a get together in Wiltshire soon.