Comberbach Memorial Hall

Marbury Road

CW9 6AU.

Disabled access and parking

 WELCOME TO COMBERBACH WI.

Comberbach WI was formed in 1950 to provide varied activities for  women in the village and surrounding area.

We are a large lively group of women and our activities include: monthly walking group, craft sessions, day trips throughout the year. We welcome new members and visitors at our monthly meetings held at the Comberbach Memorial Hall. We met on the first Monday of the month (or second if BH) at 2.30pm - November to March, 7.30 pm April - October. 

 

Full information about our meetings and annual events can be found on the Programme tab above.  Also more updates on facebook URL: https://www.facebook.com/wicomberbach

 

 

 

PROGRAMME FOR JANUARY TO MARCH 2024 NOW AVAILABLE. More Details on the Programme Tab. 

December meeting saw us being taught the Iris Paper Folding technique  and we made a Christmas card... 

 

 

 

At our recent Annual Meeting our outgoing President Lindsay Entwistle passed the mantle onto Rosie Rowe. 

 

Thank you so much Lindsay for all your hard work and dedication over the last year.  Good luck Rosie - you will be great! 

 

THANK YOU .......

 

The Committe said a big thank you to Margery Hall for all her hard work, dedication and wisdom over the last many many years on the committee and for her contribution to the WI and CFWI.  You've been great Margery - and we know who to call on when we need advice or guidance.  

 

 

 

Excellent post Annual Meeting pictorial Quiz, arranged by Lou Pendlebury. 

 

The winning team presented with beautiful seasonal Cyclamen.  Well done everybody.  

WILD IMAGES OF THE NORTH WEST

 

The October members meeting was well attended and the speaker - David Brotten was a delight.  He showed us some fantastic photographs of wild animlas taken in the North West.  Ranging from Deer, Hares. Owls, Kingfishers to a Dragon fly emerging from a pupa.  The photgraph competition was judged by David with Janine having the winning entry and Miriam gaining second place. 

VISIT TO DUNHAM CIDER FARM  SEPTEMBER 2023

 

Lindsay Entwistle, Rosie Rowe, Elaine Perry, Anne Ainsworth, Judith Buckley and Sian Chandler enjoyed an interesting visit to the Dunham Apple Cider Farm.  The weather was atrocious but the welcome was very warm.  The tasting was fun and we all ended up with clanking bags to bring home.  

73rd Birthday Party and Celebration of King Charles 111rd Coronation. May 2023

 

A lovely evening was enjoyed by 33 members to celebrate the birthday of Comberbach WI as well as the recent Coronation of King Charles 111rd. Catering was privided by Vinnies, Flowers by Rosie Rowe, Cake by Louise Pendlebury, Photos by Miriam Manners and the hall decorated by members of the Committee.  There are many more in the Gallery. 

Vale Royal Darts Competition 2023

Our two amazing Darts team.  No prizes this year - but full marks for enthusiasm, camaraderie and fun!  Well done.  

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OUR MEMBERS, FRIENDS, FAMIILY AND COLLEAGUES.

WERE ALL LOOKING FORWARD TO A FULL AND PROSPEROUS WI IN 2023.   

 

 

At the AGM in November 2022 Janine Hampton stood down as our President after 3 years of wonderful and excellent service during one of the most challenging times we have all had to get through. Thank you Janine - you have been a great asset to the Comberbach WI.

 

Lindsay Entwistle was elected as the new President for the next year. We all look forward to working with you Lindsay. The positions on the committee will be formalised at the next Committee meeting.

We welcomed Helen Ebbitt, WI Adviser, to our AGM, who oversaw the voting and election of the new president. Thank you Helen for helping us with this.

A very interesting and stretching quiz involving Cheese and Fruit Cake followed on from the AGM. Thanks to Lou Pendlebury for organising a fun afternoon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you Janine Hampton for a stirlng job as President for the last three years,   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome to Lindsay Entwistle elected as President 2022-2023.  

The Village Remembrance Service was held at the Memorial Hall and was very well attended..
Comberbach WI members oversaw and served the refreshments.
A very fitting and honourable tribute to the fallen.

Members meeting Monday 4th June at 7.30 pm. Comberbach Memorial Hall

Chutney and Cheer.  M Latham

 

Not to be missed. 

Promises to be a spicy evening with an opportunity to purchase some fab Chutney at the end. 

 

CHESHIRE SHOW SUCCESS

 

Individual Entries Results

 

Mim Manners, Photography. 20 points, First and Best in Class, (Complete with a fantastic rosette and framed certificate).

 

Janine Hampton, Photography. 15 points.

 

Janine Hampton, Preserves. 16.5 points, Commended certificate

 

Janine Hampton, Craft. 17 Points, Highly Commended certificate.

 

Rosie Rowe, Preserves. 14 Points.

 

Combined Class "A Picnic at the Palace"

 

61 points out of 80. Second place and certificate.

Design: Rosie

Tomato and Red Pepper Soup: Rosie

Cheese and Asparagus Tart: Lindsay

Coffee and Walnut Battenburg: Janine

 

A brilliant outcome.  Here are some photos.  There are more in the Photo Gallery

Day Boat Trip from Anderton

 

15 members enjoyed a lovely day out on the Trent and Mersey Canal from Anderton. The weather was glorious, scenery beautiful, company fun, and the picinic was scrumptious.  A fab day all round.  Thanks to Lindsay Entwistle for helming so expertly.   

 

 

Programme for the rest of 2022 - and some events for 2023 now avaiablle on the Programme tab above. 

72nd BIRTHDAY PARTY

(RECORD OF THE W.I. MEMBERS’ MEETING –4th April 2022)

 

The meeting was attended by 28 members and 3 visitors.

The visitors were Mr. Alan Woodcock who was providing the music, and Jean Harding and Selina Prescott from CFWI. There were absentees due to illness.

 

This meeting also celebrated the 72nd birthday of Comberbach WI, with the party unable to be held in the previous two years due to Covid restrictions. Our WI ladies were dressed for the occasion, many sporting lovely hats and fascinators.

 

Janine started the afternoon by giving out notices about forthcoming Zoom meetings, a pub lunch in May, a new virtual WI for Cheshire,The Cheshire Show and preparations for the Resolutions meeting. She then outlined the format for the afternoon.

 

Mr. Alan Woodcock, the organist at the local chapel, provided musical accompaniment for the afternoon and the celebrations were started with Alan striking up “Happy Birthday” on the keyboard and everyone joined in with the singing.  Janine Hampton cut the celebration cake. Miriam Manners was on hand to take photographs. Janine read out the two birthday cards received from Jean Harding and Selina Prescott, and these were left on display alongside the cake.

 

 Our WI members enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea supplied by Vinnies of Northwich and some mini-easter eggs. The ladies were well supplied with a stand on each table, loaded with sandwiches, mini pork pies, sausage and cheese & onion rolls, scones with jam and clotted cream, and various cakes and also strawberries all served on vintage China. Sian Chandler had kindly donated Bucks Fizz and Elderflower Presse and there was tea and coffee to finish.

 

Some of our WI members who were unable to attend and were delivered a box of afternoon tea. Rosie Rowe provided posies for each table, and these were taken home by members afterwards, Jean Harding and Selina Prescott each receiving one. The sum of £85 was raised through a raffle, with prizes donated by Committee members. The afternoon concluded with a sing-along led by Alan on the keyboard. Janine thanked everyone involved, who had all helped to make the afternoon a success.

Sian Chandler produced albums and other materials from the archives, which our WI members were able to look through and reminisce. She had also produced a new album for this birthday, and members were invited to sign the introductory page.

 

The afternoon was a huge success, and many “doggy bags” were taken home, along with the slices of birthday cake.

 

 See many more photos in the Photo Gallery. 

 

                                                           Dunham Massey

There may only have been 5 of us – Diana Jones, Joyce Stock, Lindsay Entwistle, Rosie Rowe and me – but we had a lovely time!  Joyce and Diana used mobility scooters provided by the National Trust which enabled them to see more of the grounds than they would otherwise have been able to. Diana and Joyce had “ lessons” in using the scooters and Rosie tried one out as well!

 

We had an early coffee, did plenty of walking/riding and viewed the gardens. The daffodils and narcissi were well out, but the snowdrops were past their best.

 

There were other shrubs in bloom, as well as Anemones, Hellebores and some Cyclamen.

 

We returned to the café for lunch, had a browse in the gift shop before coming home. A lovely “out”!

 

Antrobus Arms February 2022.  Our first pub lunch of 2022.  Enjoyed by 20 members. 

The December Monthy meeting was a great success with a demonstration, followed by a Cracker Making Competition.... 

November Pub Meal

 

 

The Partridge, Stretton. 

 

 

 

 

October 2021

 

We are delighted to be back together once more at our monthly meetings. Speakes have been booked and this is the schedule for the rest of the year.

First Monday of the Month 

October 4th - Volunteering in Africa - Bernice Philips

November 1st - AGM

December 6th - Demonstration on making Christmas Crackers. 

 

A few outings have also been arranged - as well as pub lunches - the next one being  at the Antrobus Arms on  Wednesday 22nd September. 

September - Outings to Marks and Spencer.  

December - Trentham Gardens Christmas Extravaganza. 

Some of our members enjoying lunch at the Spinner and Bergamot, Comberbach - there was a lot to catch up on! 

 

Then it was off to the Antrobus Arms in September.  

May 2021

Garden party - with a difference. 

Members enjoying a long awaited get together in Lesleys lovely garden. Many more photos in the Gallery   

 Marbury Park, August 2020

 

At last, a number of members were able to get together for a meet up at Marbury Park. 

 

The weather was quite autumnal, but this did not deter members from coming along with a picnic and a cheerful smile.  Lots of chatting and news to catch up on.  A lovely afternoon.  

 

Smalls for All Campaign

 

A big thank you to the members of Comberbach WI for donating nearly 100 bras and 70 new pairs of knickers to our Bras for Africa campaign.
Handed over to Sue Gidney - International Chair of Northwich Rotary
Together we are making a difference.

Craft Workshop Feb 2020

 

Ten members recently attended a pom-pom felting course , where they all made a pom-pom dog. They shall be bringing them to the next WI meeting for all to see! The course was paid for from the craft bursary which had originally been awarded to Janine Hampton.  Janine had used a small portion of it on a wirework jewellery workshop, then generously chose to share the rest with the pom pom craft attendees. This was much appreciated by the attendees.

 

 

Christmas Meal celebration 

 

Fun and indulgence at the Christmas Dinner held at Winnington Rec on 13th December.  Delicious food was enjoyed by our members along with a generous raffle.  Many more photographs available in the Photo Gallery.  

 

December members meeting

We had a great Christmas meeting at Comberbach WI last evening. Fun and games, laughter, mince pies and mulled wine - whilst being entertained by 'The Robinsons.' The duet delivered beautiful renditions from musicals - ranging from Cabaret, Pal Joey, Show Boat to Les Misérables to name a few. They got everyone reminiscing and toe tapping - and ended the evening with Christmas carols. A great start to the new President and committee.

 

For full details of the new committee and roles - click on the Committee tab above.

 

Report of the meeting can be found on the Monthy Meeting report tab above 

 

2020 COMMITTEE

 

The AGM meeting was held at the beginning of November. It was well attended and an interseting evening was enjoyed.

 

Committee Officers for were duly appointed and we welcomed Janine Hampton as the President.  Heartfelt thanks were extended to Linda Entwistle for all her hard work and contribution over the last three years as the outgong president.

 

A full list of committe members and their area of responsibility can be seen on the Committee Tab at the top of this web page.  

AUTUMN MEETING, Mere Hotel Knutsford.

 

Some 700 WI members attended the Autumn Meeting today at this impressive venue.  The morning speakers were interesting and informative.  After a light lunch - operated with military precision in view of the numbers, we were honoured to be entertained and enthralled by the guest speaker - The Reverend Kate Bottley.  We were all captivated by her talk which covered all aspects of her life, experiences and her relationship with her faith.  She was warm, friendly and compassionate - and it was great to hear a room full of WI members having a good time and laughing together.  A great meeting and a memorable day.  

"Margaret Thatcher" at the Vale Royal Group meeting.

We enjoyed an extraordinary evening with the Iron Lady hosted by the Vale Royal Group at an excellent Venue - Winsford Academy.

Lesley Smith entered the stage in the persona of Margaret Thatcher and spoke at length and in considerable detail about early life and her rise into political life and then on becoming "The Iron Lady".  It was a remarkable performance - whatever your politics, and it was truly believable that Mrs Thatcher was in the room.  The evening was hosted by the amazing Bev Langham, Vale Royal Group Chairman, and supported by Gill Targett , Group Secretary and other WI members.  

 CHRISTMAS MEAL 

 

 

    Friday 13th December at 7.30pm.            Winnington Recreation Club. 3 course meal, tea/coffee and after dinner chocs.

£22 payable on booking at the November meeting.  Bar bill extra. 

 Day Trip to Llandudno

 

The recent day trip to Llandudno was a great success.  The sun shone and a very pleasant day was spend enjoying the sea air - and trying to avoid the seagulls eating the ice cream!

 

Thank you to Lindsay and everyone else who made the day possible.   

Garden Party - Fund raiser 

 

A delightfull afternoon was spent in the company of the Comberbach WI members in Lesleys beautiful garden and home. Thank you Lesley.  

The weather was very kind - and of course the food was delicious and plentyfull.  Thanks to all the committe members for organising such a lovely event. 

The bring and buy stall raised around £125 and the other takings are to be finalised. 

More photos in the Gallery.  

 

Comberbach Fete - The Greatest Showman

 

Our members entered the spirit of the Comberbach Fete theme - The Greatest Showman with enthusiasm and won the Best Dressed Stall for a very colourfill and fun display.  Members dressed up in interesting fancy dress and much fun was had.  The weather was glorious - so it was rather hot to dressed up as  lions and clowns.... but the show had to go on.....More photos to be enjoyed in the Photo Gallery.  

 

Cheshire Show 2019

 

The Cheshire WI Marquee at the Cheshire Show is a very popular attraction for visitors and includes competitive classes for individual members and for WIs, together with lots of displays and information about the many opportunities and activities WI membership offers. Planning begins months in advance.  This year, as always Comberbach WI was very proactive – and successful with their many entries.

Members of the Comberbach WI also were very present in the WI Marquee – being stewards, helping with the Judging admin and working hard in the background, with food and refreshment preparation and serving. What a great showing and effort by Comberbach WI.

 

 

 

All the entrants to the Cheshire Show WI Marquee, giving members  an opportunity to veiw their beautiful items at the recent members meeting.  Such a happy photo - as so well deserved.  

 

 

 

Ist Prize was awarded to Alison Horton in the Individual Floral art section – A night at the Opera, she was also awarded the Helen Jean Platt Trophy for  Best In Class. 

A great accolade.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ist Prize was achieved in the  Individual Craft Section  _ Janine Hampton with a beautifully crafted teddy bear.  Adorable.  

 

 

 

 

Doreen Kennerley was awarded a Highly Commended, in the same section with a very delicately smoked child’s dress.

 

 

 

 

In the Photographic section Miriam Manners commanded 3rd place with a great 'Action photograph.

 

 

The Tea for Two display was well received, but was not placed this year.  The craft and skill displayed within all the sections were exemplary and it was a pleasure to view them all. 

The cooperative entries of My Fair Lady achieved Highly Commended.  The title 'My Fair Lady' triggered a memories for Margery Hall who was sure this had been done before. She delved into archives from years ago and found a photo of the event in 1990.. This was a 4ft floor standing display with flowers, cookery and crafts.  As you can see from the photo Comberbach WI won the class.   Members featured on the photo were Diana Jones, Melba Savin-Jones and Margery Hall. This entry was in 1990 but can you spot the staging use in both 29 years later.  Never say we don't recycle. 

 

 

This was the May Rambling Groups' adventures!


Starting at 10am from the Comberbach Memorial Hall , coffee was enjoyed at the impressive mobile shop in Antrobus.  The walk then carried on through Antrobus, ending up at the Alpaca farm.  Lunch was later enjoyed at the Cock @ Budworth.There was a steep stile near the end of the walk but the over 80s managed it very well with a few helping hands!  A  very enjoyable outing, well arranged by Hildas daughter.    

The group meet on the last Wednesday of the month at the memorial Hall Car Park. 

 

All very welcomed.  

 

 

Barbara, Lyn, Sylvia, Sarah, Judith, Irene, Cynthia and Hilda

69th Birthday Party

Comberbach WI Celebrated its 69th anniversary in style with a party, buffet and many variations of dancing! An excellent buffet was provided by Louise and her team, Mid Cheshire Catering Co.
Musical entertainment was provided by the Northwich based Swing Group, Pastry Shoes. What fun......
A most enjoyable evening, and thanks to everyone who helped to arrange the evening - and turn up!

 

 

 

 

GROUP DARTS COMPETITION - VICTORIOUS WINNERS  MARCH 2019

 

Comberbach WI entered two teams into the Group Darts Competition held at the  Winnington Recreation Club.  Many local groups attended - Hartford, Whitegate, Witton, Wunsford, Moulton and Little Leigh.

After the initial rounds the final rounds were between Comberbach Team B and Winsford. The round was going Winsfords way with their 501 reducing faster than our Team Bs'.  With 45 needed to finish, when one player stepped forward and hit the treble 15 - which clinched the match.  A noisy celebration ensued.  The shield is proudly held by the team above. Well done to the winning team and all other teams who made this evening such fun. 

 

The Winning Team 

Comberbachs' other team 

 

 

 

Centenary Tree Planting 

On a cold and damp November day and the day after the Nation celebrated the Centenary of women gaining the vote, some members congregated to plant an Amelanchier tree to celebrate the centenary of the formation of C.F.W.I. 

The Federation Chairman, Jean Harding and the Chairman of Comberbach Parish Council John Ryder officiated. The preparation and digging of the hole was done by Tony Rowe, Rosie's husband and his certainly was the hardest job.The ceremoney was followed by a light lunch of soup, sandwiches and delicious deserts all made by committee members.

Blossom on the Amelanchier Spring 2019 

Annual Bowls event

One highlight of the year is our 'Fun Bowls Day' followed by a delicious lunch.  Here is our President Linsday Entwistle congratulating the runner up Shelley Farley alongside the winner, Doreen Keneerley.  Details about this years event to follow shortly.... 

Vale Royal  Group Burns Night Supper.

On Friday 25th of January twenty members of Comberbach W.I. joined other members of V.R. Group for a fantastic Burns Night Celebration.

Our members got into the mood and sported various forms of Scottish traditional dress.

Scottish dancing and indoor Kurling along with a traditional Burns Supper all helped to make this an unforgettable evening.

 

2018 Christmas Meal

On Friday the 4th Dec 40 of our members enjoyed a very festive Christmas meal at Winnington Recreational Club. 

The room was   beautifully decorated for the festive season and the food was deliciouse and of a very high standard.

Everyone enjoyed themselves, there was lots of chatter and laughing and everyone commented that they would like to return on another occasion. 

 

Village fete June 2018

 

WI's cake stall at the Village Fete.  A superb selection of cakes were avalable at the stall and our President, Lindsay Entwistle, The Queen of Hearts and her courtiers won the Best Dressed Stall.  

 Cheshire Show 2018

 

The show had been very enjoyable and quite successful given that not as many of our members had entered items as in the past years.The theme this year was 'Land, Sea,Sky and beautifull displays, interpriting the title, adorned the marquee.

Members of our WI exhibited at the show gaining several awards.

The combined entries from our WI in crafts and cookery both gained Highly Commended cards. Janine Hampton gained a 3rd in photography and Miriam Manners Highly Commended .

Congratulations to all taking part.