Ramblings Newsletter

All 2020 of Ramblings are now available here. Unfortunately its not possible to upload the photos within each edition. That is work in progress. However the photos are all available if you click on the links below.

2021 editions will be available soon.

File: RamblingsApril2020.

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COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS MAY 2020. Edition 1

As we are all finding different ways to get through this extraordinary time, the committee members of Comberbach WI have put together a few little snippets of how we are all adjusting to the lock down time. Hopefully you will enjoy reading about what we have been up to and look forward to you sending back some of your stories of how you have filled your time.

Some local services used by members

Vegetable boxes and 25kg sacks of potatoes are available to order on a weekly basis from Jon - mobile 07921863324

Steve at the Post Office has been very helpful by sourcing a very good range and variety of foods and bedding plants – an extremely valuable local service.

Some of us have secured a regular delivery from Sainsburys and Tesco and have already ordered a few things on behalf of friends and neighbours. We are happy to add the odd item to our order for anyone struggling, but some of the substitutions have been "interesting"! - so can't guarantee anything. Ring Janine on 07756 854042 or Sian on 07770863170 if you need anything and we will try to help. Or e mail sianrc@hotmail.co.uk

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Hello from Lindsey

A big thanks to Marbury nursery who delivered these plants. No baskets were done last year because I broke my arm in early May playing Walking Netball.

I hope everyone is doing ok. Let’s hope the sun keep shining. I will let everyone concerned know about the fish and chip tea and the Mousetrap. Please wave if you walk past the end of our drive.
Lindsay

Lindsey’s Hanging baskets ready to go……

Lockdown at 50 Senna Lane, Sara Smith

I have included in this account a picture of the beautiful flowering cherry at the back of our garden which belongs to the school. I don’t know about the rest of you but I have found the spring blossom has been superb this year.

With all this beautiful weather I have managed to finish creating my vegetable patch, plant some seeds and sort out landscaping the rest of the back garden which had been left a mess after we had a patio laid last summer.

I am not much of a cook so I leave the cooking and baking to my husband who is baking bread for the neighbours and making cakes for my son to take to his colleagues at Merseyside police. They love cake.

I have finished the birth sampler for my next grandchild who is expected mid May. Fingers crossed my daughter in law will be OK. I also rushed to the wool shop before lockdown and am knitting a coat for my 3 year old grandson in France and another jumper for his Mum my daughter. She is the only one of my children that likes my knitting. I will send a picture of the finished articles next time. I have also tried to carry on with my art but I am not very good so I may not send a photo of that unless it improves.

I hear other members have been baking and crafting and in view of the fact that we cannot enter the Cheshire Show this year it might be an idea if we had our own little show when we are released. I might even bring some of my paintings!!

I am lucky as are quite a few other members who live with someone and are therefore not on our own. I do not have any health issues particularly so I or my husband can still go out shopping once a week and I can walk quite a long way. I often think of other members I know who are on their own and must be getting a bit stir crazy by now. My thoughts are also with those who have health issues and are limited as to what they can do but I know as WI members you will always be positive.

Keep up the good work, Sara Smith

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Hello fellow members from Sian

The last few months have been full of highs and lows for me and my family, but I am sure I am not alone when I say that……I am sure we are all going through similar experiences. Whilst the weather has been so amazing – the garden has been a priority and has never looked so neat and tidy, I have even managed to clear the ivy under the beech hedges which has always looked so untidy, but one of those jobs that you keep putting off – well it’s done!

A photo of Jen enjoying the garden and sunshine

My other great news is the birth of our first grandchild. Rowan was born in New York on the 30^th March. Needless to say, our plans to go and spend time with our son and new family have been scuppered, so I am missing spending time with them – and helping with the first few months of sleepless nights and worries.

Here is Rowan along side a large Steiff Teddy – who is the biggest?

Meanwhile I continue to help look after my farmer brother, who is currently staying with us, and we have had to go to his farm in North Wales on a couple of occasions for essential maintenance – and are always rewarded by the beauty of the countryside – and seeing new born lambs and calves.

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Margery is making the most of being house bound apart from being out in the garden and short walks.

“I am building up my cake selection, in the freezer, so when restrictions are lifted, I am ready for lots of coffee mornings and friends popping in for a chat. “ We will certainly hold you to that Margery! I have defrosted one of my freezers and even cleaned cupboards out.

We are so lucky to live in such a beautiful and caring village. I do miss our meetings and WI activities but being part of the W.I. family certainly has its benefits . Janine ,kindly, has let me share her Sainsbury’s home delivery. It works perfectly and saves my daughter having to go to more than one supermarket.

Photos of Janine’s garden delights – Lilac tree and Wild Garlic found down the tow path a stones throw from Janine’s home.

Recipies for your delight.

Ginger Cake

1/2lb SR flour, 1/2lb golden syrup, 3oz margarine or butter, 2oz demerara sugar, 2 teasp ground ginger, 1 egg, pinch salt, approx 1/8 pt milk.

Sieve dry ingredients into a bowl. Melt butter, syrup and sugar gently in a pan. Beat the egg and add the milk to it. Add this to the pan and pour pan contents into mixing bowl.

Do NOT beat the mixture but work in. Grease shallow tin - I use a small rectangular one - cook approx 45 mins 350 degrees F .

Cheesy biscuits. Set oven to 180C

Mix together: 100g butter, 100g P flour, pinch salt, pinch cayenne, 1 heaped teasp mustard powder and 50g finely grated Cheddar. Do not use any binding agents such as water or egg as the mix will bind itself...

bring mix all together, cling wrap and chill for 30 mins.

Roll out to thickness of a £2 coin

Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with grated Parmesan to your liking - at least 50g.

Cut to desired size and bake on non-stick tray or parchment for approx 10 minutes.

Allow to cool and enjoy!

Janine

Handicrafts

A beautiful piece of Embroidery by Janine – now hanging in pride of place on her wall. Nice work!.

If you would like to contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157 or

07770863170

Looking to share things you have been up to during the lockdown, any good reads? Films TV programmes you have enjoyed – and of course things you are still looking forward to.

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

Usefull links

facebook – Comberbach WI

Comberbach Community Support

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COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS MAY 2020. Edition 2

We have had some lovely feedback from members following the first edition of WI ramblings which I will include at the end of this edition.

We may be by now accustomed to the requirements of the Lockdown – but it still does not make the isolation and segregation any easier. So here are a few tales and snippets from our members which should help to pass away the time a little…………

The Covid Chronicle by Janine Hampton.

Hi everyone, I am happy to say that I am just about fully recovered, although there are days when I feel tired. I can assure you that Covid-19 is every bit as horrible as you have heard - I still don't know where I got it, but obviously did, before the lockdown even started, so probably caught it when shopping. I can honestly say that I ticked off all the symptoms, including the loss of smell and taste, but only realised this in hindsight.

I had a big tub of hyacinths flowering right by the patio door. The scent would normally be overpowering, but hardly smelt them at all, which I thought was strange at the time and put it down to the tub of bulbs being waterlogged for most of the winter. I do remember cooking a meal and thinking that I probably had made a rubbish job of it as it tasted of nothing!

I am just relieved that I managed to stay out of Leighton when it affected my asthma. The GP put me on a short course of steroids which got me over the worst.

I have kept on with the crafts and the gardening, taken some lovely walks as I have felt better, as I love seeing all the wildflowers and photographing them.

My felt Llamas – or are they Alpaca?

Sometimes I will do a drawing or watercolour from the photo, and sometimes I pick the odd leaf or flower, press them and make these into cards or pictures. Baking has occupied me as well, and I have been lucky enough to obtain a supply of flour.

I took advantage of the ordering scheme at Marbury Nurseries for plants, so the garden is looking nice too. It is always nice to receive phone calls, and there have been some kind offers of help. I am certainly going to need a holiday after all this, so just hope I will be able to book something before long - I am happy to stay in the UK - there are so many lovely places over here. I look forward to seeing WI members again...hope the Groups may be able to re-start if we get the go-ahead to meet in "Clusters"! Janine.

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Hello ladies from Rosie at Cedar Cottage

As I am sure you can imagine, I have been very busy in our challenging and large garden. At this time of year everything grows at a tremendous rate, especially the weeds, but I can say for once that we are on top of most of it. We have been delighted with a spectacular show of tulips, although some did not last long because it was too hot. I now have one or two rose buds opening, a little before their usual allotted time.

Enough of gardening, I was amazed and delighted to see “Rosie the Riveter” on the front cover of our WI Magazine this month. I had never come across this cultural icon of the United States until my husband bought a rather saucy depiction of her on one of the metal posters that are so prevalent at car shows nowadays. She adorns the inside of our garden shed and always makes me smile! She was of course the “pin up girl” encouraging women to work in, up to then, taboo industries during WW2 and the attributes and character she depicted in those dark days are very apt for our current situation, we women are very good at adapting and coping. I also feel a little bit of affinity with her being a metallurgist, I was the only female in my year at university and although I never did any riveting, I did do quite a bit of welding, swaging and rolling of metal!!

I hope this finds you all well and safe, especially those of you who are alone and do not have the luxury of others in their home. If ever anyone wants a chat, please call me on 01606 784858.

“Locked Down” by Ida Meakin

No nipping off to Sainsbury’s

Not stopping for a chat

No visitors to entertain

No Emmerdale to watch

No weddings to dress up for

No news that’s any good

No church, no clubs, no callers

It isn’t looking good

My kids do all the shopping

A neighbour cooked me lunch

My friends are often ringing

Just to keep in touch

The birds have taken over

They sing a lovely tune

And once a day they let me out

To see the flowers bloom

And strangers say hello to me

They never used to do

I’ve jigsaws to unravel

And crossword puzzles too

Books to entertain me

And knitting to peruse

I got to church on Sunday

Not even getting wet

A grandson taught me how to Zoom

Oh joy, it’s the net

You’ll note this verse is longer

Than the one I wrote before

I’m trying to be positive

And not some sad old bore.

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Loss of a past member :-

Sadly, we have been informed that a very special former President Margaret Barron passed away on 8^th May 2020. Margaret was president from 2000 to 2002. She was a valued member of the Drama Group and the WI Choir. She is especially remembered for the most wonderful flower arrangements with which she helped to win many cups and trophies at the Cheshire Show. Margaret had been in a Care Home for some years latterly, and is survived by her husband Ian, who lives in the village.

VE Day celebrations

I am sure you all had your private thoughts and memories on 75^th anniversary VE day, which was such a strange day in the current circumstances – Nice to see that Margery celebrated in style with husband Richard . The cream tea looks delicious.

Margaret Jefferson says – Its lovely to hear what members are up to in Lockdown.

A recent craft project - a machine embroidery, worked for a friend’s golden wedding. I found the frame in another cupboard that needed clearing out. Best wishes, Margaret Jefferson. A beautiful embroidery,

I am sure the photo does not do this work justice – we will have to have a display of art and craft produced over the Lockdown.

“We are fine here in Weaverham. The days are punctuated by food deliveries, gardening, my usual craft projects, Zoom meetings of family, choir and church and random clearing out sessions.

Only yesterday, sorting and clearing out old press cuttings, I came across an account in the local newspaper of the Comberbach WI craft and produce show, probably around late 1970s, early 80s. Details of who won each class! The photograph evoked lots of memories of past, and a few present members. Stay safe and best wishes.

The Crafty Ladies -

Front row: Gail Woodcock, Margaret Jefferson,Mary Preston, Margaret Barron,
Ena Plant Back row: Edna Jones, Thelma Woodcock(mother of Alison Horton), Gladys Howard

Hello from Elaine.

Hope you’re ok, I’m sure you are still very busy even in lockdown! How’s the hair doing? I’ve coloured mine once, it’s nearly ready for another ‘do’, the length is becoming a bit irritating, I tie it back most if the time, long hair not a good look on someone my age!

I delivered a VE celebration afternoon tea made by Helena O’Byrne to Cynthia, it looked delicious and Cynthia enjoyed it very much. We had quite a chat on the following day covering all sorts of subjects including some very interesting information about the village for a relative newbie like me.

‘Did you know that bombs were dropped in the war very near where your house now stands?’ was a surprise. They did not explode and fortunately no one was hurt. Cynthia is a font of knowledge about the village, having lived here all her married life and I could have listened all day! Elaine Perry

Lockdown at 50 Senna Lane - Continued

It has been a month since the last Comberbach ramblings.I hope everyone is still keeping well and sane. It may be sometime before we can meet again as per HRH. I have not progressed much in the last month but I have finished knitting my grandson’s coat, I just have to work out where all the pieces go now. It is a bit like great british sewing bee.

My potatoes and seeds have all grown nicely. Growing potatoes here is like taking coals to Newcastle.

Talking of the North East, I have even finished one picture of Tynemouth Priory if anyone recognises it. My son wanted one to remind him of Tynemouth.

My husband has been busy most days baking. He is baking bread for the neighbours and cakes for the police as there is no possibility we can eat it all. The police have nicknamed him Mr Kipling. As all the flour has gone from the supermarkets a lot of people are probably doing the same. I know someone in the WI had a really good recipe for lemon drizzle cake which my husband would love to see. His last one sank in the middle.

That is a problem he has quite a lot, does anyone know why if he follows the recipe to the letter. Is he using the wrong tin or not getting it in the oven quickly enough? When things go back to normal some of the expert bakers could run a baking course. My cakes all collapse in the middle as well.

My 11^th grandchild arrived on the 15^th a little girl called Ava Rose. I am not sure when I will be able to go down to Salisbury to see her but I have finished her birth sampler so now I can add the name and frame it.

I must now get on with some more painting and there are still plenty of DIY jobs in the house and the weeding is an ongoing job. I look forward to reading everybody’s news.

Sara Smith

Some of the thank-yous received for Ramblings Edition 1

Thanks to you and the committee for keeping in touch. I enjoyed reading the email sent via Sian. You have all kept busy doing a range of activities showing talents and skills. It's so important to focus on what you can do. Hoping you continue to recover Janine. Looking forward to meeting up with everyone when we can. Regards Heather Morris

Thank you, Sian, I have enjoyed the first edition of 'Ramblings.' Best wishes Anne A

Thank you so much for your email, most interesting, and congratulations on your grandson! Hilary Totten

Really enjoyed reading Ramblings. It's a very good idea. Thank you. Alison

Thank you so much for the ramblings! It was very uplifting with some lovely photos! Sue E

Thank you so much for your email and newsletter. The Newsletter is fantastic. Well done to all who contributed and put it together. It has made very good reading and it’s good know that we are all getting through these trying times. Stay safe Marian .

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

Its great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming.. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157 or

07770863170

Looking to share things you have been up to during the lockdown, any good reads, films TV programmes you have enjoyed or recipies – or any craft items you are proud of, and of course things you are still looking forward to.

Useful links

facebook – Comberbach WI

Comberbach Community Support

A very healthy bed of Runner Beans kindly donated to Janine from Rosie – I wonder if they are magic beans?

COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS MAY 2020. Edition 2

We have had some lovely feedback from members following the first edition of WI ramblings which I will include at the end of this edition.

The Covid Chronicle by Janine Hampton.

I am just relieved that I managed to stay out of Leighton when it affected my asthma. The GP put me on a short course of steroids which got me over the worst.

I have kept on with the crafts and the gardening, taken some lovely walks as I have felt better, as I love seeing all the wildflowers and photographing them.

My felt Llamas – or are they Alpaca?

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Hello ladies from Rosie at Cedar Cottage

I hope this finds you all well and safe, especially those of you who are alone and do not have the luxury of others in their home. If ever anyone wants a chat, please call me on 01606 784858.

“Locked Down” by Ida Meakin

No nipping off to Sainsbury’s

Not stopping for a chat

No visitors to entertain

No Emmerdale to watch

No weddings to dress up for

No news that’s any good

No church, no clubs, no callers

It isn’t looking good

My kids do all the shopping

A neighbour cooked me lunch

My friends are often ringing

Just to keep in touch

The birds have taken over

They sing a lovely tune

And once a day they let me out

To see the flowers bloom

And strangers say hello to me

They never used to do

I’ve jigsaws to unravel

And crossword puzzles too

Books to entertain me

And knitting to peruse

I got to church on Sunday

Not even getting wet

A grandson taught me how to Zoom

Oh joy, it’s the net

You’ll note this verse is longer

Than the one I wrote before

I’m trying to be positive

And not some sad old bore.

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Loss of a past member :-

VE Day celebrations

Margaret Jefferson says – Its lovely to hear what members are up to in Lockdown.

I am sure the photo does not do this work justice – we will have to have a display of art and craft produced over the Lockdown.

“We are fine here in Weaverham. The days are punctuated by food deliveries, gardening, my usual craft projects, Zoom meetings of family, choir and church and random clearing out sessions.

The Crafty Ladies -

Front row: Gail Woodcock, Margaret Jefferson,Mary Preston, Margaret Barron,
Ena Plant Back row: Edna Jones, Thelma Woodcock(mother of Alison Horton), Gladys Howard

Hello from Elaine.

Lockdown at 50 Senna Lane - Continued

My potatoes and seeds have all grown nicely. Growing potatoes here is like taking coals to Newcastle.

Talking of the North East, I have even finished one picture of Tynemouth Priory if anyone recognises it. My son wanted one to remind him of Tynemouth.

I must now get on with some more painting and there are still plenty of DIY jobs in the house and the weeding is an ongoing job. I look forward to reading everybody’s news.

Sara Smith

Some of the thank-yous received for Ramblings Edition 1

Thank you, Sian, I have enjoyed the first edition of 'Ramblings.' Best wishes Anne A

Thank you so much for your email, most interesting, and congratulations on your grandson! Hilary Totten

Really enjoyed reading Ramblings. It's a very good idea. Thank you. Alison

Thank you so much for the ramblings! It was very uplifting with some lovely photos! Sue E

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

Its great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming.. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157 or

07770863170

Useful links

facebook – Comberbach WI

Comberbach Community Support

A very healthy bed of Runner Beans kindly donated to Janine from Rosie – I wonder if they are magic beans?

COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS JUNE 2020. Edition 3

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Dear Member

Its strange to think that we are only a few weeks from the longest day – somehow this year seems to have been the longest strangest and scariest year so far. But we must not ignore the fact that there has been a lot of positivity and camaraderie around despite all the anxiety and isolation. Once more we have had some lovely feedback from you about our efforts to keep in touch and a big thank you to members who have taken the time and trouble to send in their stories.

The committee plan to hold their first Zoom meeting in a few weeks’ time and I will be able to share with you the matters they discussed and maybe an outline plan for the short term nature of Comberbach WI. The committee are hoping to have a presence at the Comberbach Front Garden Fete on Saturday 27^th June. I will share details on the WI Website and Facebook page in due course. If you have any ideas as to how you would like to see the WI represented, or contribute towards the WI stall please let me or one of the committee members know as soon as possible.

More information re the fete available on - https://www.facebook.com/comberbachfete

Presidential Ponderings

We have purchased some outdoor plants and a card, and delivered them to Rena in the Village as a thank you from our WI for running the Hall. She has now hung up her pen and diary. She was very pleased that we had thought about her.

It is nice to be able to address our WI members again, if only via this newsletter. Jean Harding, has sent me a newsletter which I have asked Sian to send on separately. She really has got this newsletter production down to a fine art.

The missive from Jean seems to be a replacement for the Cheshire News and there are also some pointers towards what will happen as regards subs since we have all had to stay at home.

It was good to see so many of our WI members in the Village for Margaret Barron's funeral, and it was an inspired suggestion by Lindsay for us all to sing "Jerusalem" as the cortege drove past. The family was very appreciative of that gesture and put the car windows down in order to hear it properly, so that must have been a comfort for them.

We have received a message from Ian Barron to the Ladies of Comberbach WI which the family would like to share with all the WI members -

"On behalf of my family and myself, I wish to thank all of you concerned in the gathering outside the Church and taking part in the Hymn singing. It was all so much appreciated and was reflective of Margaret's involvements, and, therefore became a fitting conclusion to her life. My family were able to see what it all meant to her. Thank you for the way in which we were supported." Ian.

We are now well into June, and normally we would be running round, getting things finalised for the Cheshire Show. Margery is still in Show mode, with a freezer full of cakes, scones etc. I have managed to source her baking ingredients whilst doing my online order, along with flour from the paper shop in Barnton. Nothing stops Margery from baking!!

I have cautiously given our WI Groups the go-ahead to meet up again, adhering to distancing rules, of course! It all depends on the weather. Sara has held one Book Group meeting in her garden, but the group cannot be bigger than 6.

Even if there isn't too much "Group" in the meeting, it is still a nice opportunity for those who may have felt isolated to venture out for a chat and a cuppa. I suggest taking your own mug along, and having biscuits in wrappers, to keep things easy and to avoid washing up - the mugs can be held out at arm's length to be filled at arm's length!

Ursula informed me that walks around Marbury have been exhausted...and pubs don't re-open until July either!! I'll leave all that to Ursula....

Not sure if the crafters have re-convened yet... it's all a few small steps towards getting our WI back. I am still crafting and made some apricot jam last week - it has a lovely flavour, albeit a little soft, so not up to Cheshire Show standard!

I am taking a big step into the unknown next week - I have called a Committee meeting on Zoom. I hope it goes well - on the other hand, it might just be an epic fail! I'll keep you posted.... Lastly, we all wish Margery a very happy , Very Important Big Birthday on the 21st!

Another recipe from Janine - Ginger cake seemed to go down well and was endorsed by Marjorie! I have made it again twice since then - no wonder I am still trying to lose weight!

This one is a bit of an indulgent treat! Sorry the measurements are in Imperial, but it works fine!

Chocolate and rum ring cake. (by Janine)

The fact it is a ring cake suggests the use of a suitable tin, but I haven't tried other tins...maybe a loaf tin??

In a large-ish bowl mix together 5oz SR flour 1 oz cocoa, 1/2 teasp salt and 5 oz soft brown sugar

In a jug put 1/2 teasp vanilla essence, 6 tablespoons corn oil, 6 tablespoons milk and 2 egg yolks. Set the egg whites aside in another bowl.

Whisk the egg whites until stiff.

Mix the liquids into the dry ingredients then fold in whisked egg whites with a METAL spoon.

Grease the ring. Add mix and bake at 350deg F for 45-55 mins until firm and well risen. Set cooked cake aside.

In a small pan, melt 4oz sugar in 1/4 pint water until thick, and then add 4 tablespoons rum.

Make holes in the cake and allow the rum mixture to soak in overnight. Ideally served with cream or ice cream. Enjoy!!

June’s bountiful garden – The sun and heat have helped produce a bumper crop this year.
We have mangetout, broad beans, runner beans, kale, cabbage, broccoli, kalletts, tomatoes, lettuce cucumber and courgette!
We are watering daily to keep them all alive. But since then we have had some mighty storms – so lets hope that they are still thriving!

From Sian - The slightly relaxed lockdown rules continue to keep us at home – as there is nowhere to go – apart from lovely long walks with Jen the sheepdog. Its such a lovely way to spend my freedom time –and a great opportunity to meet fellow dog walkers and strike a up a conversation. The garden continues to have full attention and I marvel at the colour and beauty of May and June, This is a collage of a few of the plants that I am sure many of us are enjoying at the moment.

Sian’s Seasonal Recipe ---

Elderflower Panna Cotta with Gooseberry Compote

100ml whole milk
250ml double cream
40g caster sugar
3–4 large heads of elderflower
2 gelatine leaves (I used powder as had no leaves.)
150ml plain yoghurt

For the gooseberry compote:

500g gooseberries, topped and tailed
75g caster sugar
A few sprigs of elderflower (optional)

Combine the milk, cream and sugar in a saucepan. Tie up the elderflower heads in a piece of muslin and add to the pan. Scald the liquid – bring just to the boil, but don’t let it bubble, leave for half an hour to infuse, then remove the elderflower.

Soak the gelatine in cold water for 5–10 minutes, until soft and floppy, then squeeze out excess water.

Reheat the scalded liquid almost to boiling point

Add the gelatine to the hot cream mixture and stir until dissolved. Leave to cool to room temperature, stirring from time to time.

Once cooled, stir in the yoghurt until thoroughly combined. Pour the mixture into four 125ml moulds, such as ramekins, and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, until set.

Meanwhile, make the compote. Put the gooseberries in a pan with the sugar and 50ml water. Tie up the elderflower sprigs, if using, in a piece of muslin and add to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook gently for about 10 minutes, until the gooseberries are soft.

Leave to cool completely, then remove the elderflower sprigs and chill the compote. To turn out the panna cottas, dip each mould very briefly in hot water – literally just a few seconds – then turn upside down on to a serving plate and give it a shake; if necessary, run a knife around the edge.

Serve with the gooseberry compote.

Enjoy – the Panna Cotta is delicious – I have made it a few times as Elderflowers are in abundance at the moment… but served with Hedgerow Coulis as I don’t have any Gooseberries. I have also made a few gallons of Elderflower Champagne and some Elderflower Cordial – I do love foraging… Sian x

Cheshire Show 2020

If you would like to see a ‘Virtual Cheshire Show’ on line go to www.royalcheshireshow.org/virtual-show-2020/ from 16^th June.

What Should I Do? Margery Hall.

Well this week I should have been working flat out for the Cheshire Show. Instead I am wondering what to do!! Freezer full of cakes and scones, so I thought you might like to look at some photos from past shows

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Update at 50 Senna Lane. Sara Smith.

The reading group is starting up again with a meeting in my garden. It was to be are usual 3^rd Tuesday of the month but thunderstorms are forecast so it is now arranged for Friday 19^th.

Here is the last book we were reading.

I will ask Sian to post the groups’ opinion of it after our meeting on Friday. Unfortunately, as the libraries are closed we will not have another book to read.

Not a lot has happened at my house apart from the vegetables growing and myself becoming more of a vegetable every day. My enthusiasm for doing things seems to be waning. I think I need to get out more. I think a lot of people are feeling like this now but I am not tempted to stand in a long queue outside Primark yet!!

The Committee are organising a zoom meeting. I hope I will not disgrace myself and make a mess of it. My art group have been very productive but it will be a while before we can meet again as the room at the Methodist Church is so small. I hope they will eventually have an exhibition of their lockdown work later on in the year.

At the moment my husband is trying to perfect his lemon drizzle cake for next years Cheshire show. Perhaps I should get some strawberry jam on the go.

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

Its great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming.. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157 or 07770863170

Looking to share things you have been up to during the lockdown, any good reads, films, TV programmes you have enjoyed or recipes – or any craft items you are proud of and of course things you are still looking forward to.

Useful links

facebook – Comberbach WI https://www.facebook.com/wicomberbach

Comberbach Community Support

COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS JULY 2020. Edition 4

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Dear Member

Presidential Ponderings.....

It must come as a relief to many that the lockdown is now being eased, but I know that many of our WI members are still understandably wary of being out and about, some of whom have vulnerable family members to consider.

We are all very aware that new freedoms can lead to new infections, and I have read that infections in Cheshire West/Chester are on the rise again, so we are not out of the proverbial woods yet. Advice remains confused...are we still limited to groups of 6 outdoors, or is it now 30?

The fact that diners and drinkers can now congregate outdoors would suggest the latter, albeit, socially distanced,(or as often is the case, not). I await clarification. Until then, WI meetings are not going to happen, although some of our members have had groups of 6 in their gardens for tea/coffee, weather permitting. Our Groups - Craft, Books and Ramblers - are free to meet up as outlined, and I have left that to Mary Tilley, Sara Smith and Ursula Ryder to reinstate, as they feel able to do so.

The Book Group is certainly back up and running, and maybe the Ramblers can now walk and be refreshed with the re-opening of pubs and cafes again.

I would imagine that many of our WI members have continued to do their own thing, be it art, crafts, gardening, baking....my words last time must have been prophetic when I said that nothing stops Margery Hall from baking, as she is now unwell and receiving hospital care, and we are all in a state of shock about it. Margery IS our WI!! At least she is not missing much and we all wish her a speedy recovery.

I know, too, that other WI members have been unwell themselves or have family members they are concerned about - we wish them all well and are thinking about them.

We have had one Committee meeting, courtesy of Zoom, with another scheduled later this month. Whether we can get all or most of our members to do Zoom is another matter and a challenge! Sian is our Media expert and maybe she can persuade some of our less technically minded...it would be nice to get a group of sorts together, so anyone who fancies the idea, let us know!

In the coming weeks, we shall be keeping an eye on the weather to see if we can have a "pop-up" garden party of sorts, that is, if up to 30 is allowed. Somewhere between 10 and 20 would be workable, I feel. It would be a case of bring a chair, mug and a mug. Cakes and biscuits would be of the packaged variety and all socially distanced. When we are ready, the word will go out and it will have to be booked with the person hosting. We would like all our members to be able to attend one. In the meantime, keep calm and carry on!!

Janine Hampton.

Margery Hall

You most probably know by now about devastating news about Margery’s illness. We are keeping in touch with her family via phone and facebook, The family are relieved to say that Margery has started to make a little progress at Leighton Hospital. The family would like to thank all the WI ladies who have sent their well wishes, cards, and offered their support, which will be passed on to Margery in due course. Of course, not being able to visit Margery in hospital is extremely frustrating for all concerned.

If you would like to send a cheerful video to Margery – please e mail to Sara (daughter) at saraheriley69@gmail.com

We all wish Margery a speedy recovery – you are so missed!

Margery recently celebrated her 80^th birthday with her family. Here is a photo of a WI rose called ‘Jam and Jerusalem’ which was a birthday gift. And with some very shiny balloons.

Cheshire Show 2020

This year was a virtual show - if you would like to see a ‘Virtual Cheshire Show’ on line go to www.royalcheshireshow.org/virtual-show-2020/ If you click on the WI page there are some great photos of the entrants and winners of 2019

Cheshire Show 2019 featuring all the entrants from Comberbach WI after the event. It was a great achievement.

BOOK CLUB

W.I Bookclub members. Ellen Buckhurst, Lindsay Entwistle, Heather Morris, Elaine Perry, Sara Smith, Lesley Smith.

I expect many of you have been reading during lock down. My W.I. friends have swapped or lent me some good books.

Four W.I. readers met on Friday 19th June on Sarah's patio with a weather proof canopy. It was lovely to meet up. We took our own mugs and observed social distancing.

Our last library group read was ' The Hunters' by Kat Gordon was set in Kenya. One of the characters was Lord Delamere who inherited the Vale royal Estate in Cheshire as a 17year old ! Lord Delamere was one of the first and most influential settlers in Kenya. He is credited with helping to found the so-called ' Happy Valley set'. They were a clique of well-off pleasure-seeking British colonials; some of the main characters in the book were based on this set.

The contrasting political outlook, cultures and attitudes of locals and settlers are explored through the central characters in this book. The author describes the stunning landscape and development of the railway within the context of the time.

Good feedback from all readers. We enjoyed getting together again. Our next read suggested by Lesley is by Ann Bronte The Tennant of Wildfell Hall. We are going to source copies ourselves as the library is still closed.

If you fancy joining the book club – please contact Sara.

Regards Heather Morris

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Comberbach Fete 2020

Once again this was a different event to the usual extravaganza of Comberbach Fete. Due to the new format the WI did not have a stall but we did manage to display the banner in a prominent position at the end of Sara’s drive.

The village looked great – with some fantastic bunting, garden decorations and scarecrows. It seemed that people had gone to a great effort to make the best of a different sort of fete day.

All Creatures Great and Small – Vet on Call…

The Scarecrow Competition proved to be fun for me – and I managed to win first prize! This was my first attempt at entering the spirit of the Scarecrow competition – and I loved it! My husband Richard, set his stall by our gate to make sure the animals behaved themselves throughout the day- even the showers of rain did not put him off!

Summer fruit delight.

Having been to Kenyon Hall Farm to pick some very juicy ripe Strawberries I have made Strawberry Jam –isn’t it tricky to get a good set? Think I mastered it by the third batch. It tastes delicious whatever its consistency Sian Chandler

NFWI 2020 RAFFLE

From Sara, Secretary.

If anyone would like to buy some raffle tickets for the NFWI annual raffle could you please email me on saram.smith@yahoo.com telling me how many you would like to buy and then either write a cheque for the relevant amount and send it to Rosie or send the amount directly by bank transfer. I will then put your name address etc on the tickets and send them off to County.

They are £1 a ticket or £10 a book.

As you can see from the picture the first prize is £10,000.

They need to be sent off by the 25^th September for the draw on the 9^th October so please let me know as soon as possible if you want to purchase some.

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Hello from Anne Saville

I am inspired by what fellow members have achieved during Lockdown. For my part, I have gardened, done a bit of 'touch up' decorating, been introduced to Zoom - my new Best Friend, and done lots of reading, but I thought I would share with you, two things that I would not have done without Lockdown.

I sometimes read the lesson at Great Budworth Church, but there are no Services at present so I read for the on-line Service. I had no idea how it worked. but if they needed a Reading, I was happy to do it. Jenny, one of the Curates, came round to our house in Senna Lane, and found a suitable location in the back garden. I read from the Gospel according to Saint Matthew and she videoed me on her mobile phone resting on a small stand.

I still don't understand how Jenny incorporated it into the Sunday on-line service, but it worked - modern technology!

I like cooking, but it's not my favourite thing, but Olivier, the Owner/Chef of the French Restaurant, La Boheme, in Lymm has written another cookery book. As we sometimes eat there and are on their list, I received an e-mail, asking if I would like to test one of his recipes. I was given a choice and decided on a fish dish. PAN-FRIED HAKE WITH SPINACH CAKES, WILD MUSHROOMS AND TARRAGON SAUCE. It had to be made exactly to the recipe, to ensure it worked before going into the book. You had to report back to them on what you thought.

It was great fun, quite exciting, I have never before wilted spinach with such passion, I felt a bit like Nigella. Fortunately everything worked well and the only adverse comment was that Mike would have liked more tarragon sauce. !

So back to clearing out the garage and preparing for our Golden Wedding Anniversary...............................to be continued!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH. Its great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming.. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157 or 07770863170

Useful links - facebook – Comberbach WI https://www.facebook.com/wicomberbach Comberbach Community Support

COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS August 2020.

Edition 5

Dear Member

Life for our WI continues to be taxing and challenging, as it has been for everyone. Meetings at the Memorial Hall are not likely to restart any time soon, and regrettably, planned activities and speakers booked to come to the meetings have all had to be cancelled.

We do not take this lightly, and we are reviewing cancellations on a month by month basis. The "Chocolate Man" with his samples is the latest casualty, but we are keeping our fingers crossed that the Christmas Meal might just be able to go ahead, but that depends on what the Government dictates regarding numbers allowed to gather, and how it can be socially distanced. We won't give up easily!

Some degree of normality has resumed in the Groups getting up and running again. The Book Club has been holding meetings under Sara Smith's large awning in her back garden, the Ramblers met in Ursula Ryder's garden and the Craft Group will be doing something similar very soon. It has given our WI members the opportunity to enjoy a catch-up and each other’s' company.

There have also been some ad-hoc get togethers in members' gardens, when the weather has permitted and the Committee is holding monthly Zoom meetings. Understandably, many of our WI members do not feel ready to resume monthly meetings with all the precautions and disinfecting this would entail

We had some wonderful news this last week; Margery Hall has returned home from hospital, and the video circulating on Facebook shows the progress she has made. She is very keen to resume her WI duties and activities and this is speeding her recovery. We all wish her well, and we are sure she will be baking again before we know it! Margery is well known and much loved in the Village, and we are all delighted she is back. We need more good news like that! In the meantime, it's baby steps.....

Janine Hampton (President)

Open garden event.

There will be a Comberbach WI Open Garden event on Wednesday, August 26th at Lesley Smith's (times to be confirmed) - weather permitting! We are not expecting huge crowds, but should there be too many wishing to attend, Lindsay Entwistle has also offered the use of her garden too! Lesley's and Lindsay's lovely large gardens will enable those attending to socially distance. In line with current guidance, no refreshments will be served, but toilets will be available. The idea is that we can have an informal get together and chat, and ladies can bring either a packed lunch or snack, cake or whatever with a drink. Also please bring your own chair.

Names to Lesley, please. When we know our numbers, we can then decide if we need the 2 venues.

Lesley’s contact details – 01606 892347 charlessmithxx@hotmail.com

Recent Questionnaire

A big thank you for those who took the time to return the recent questionnaire about what direction we should be taking. We sent out 47 e mails, and some telephone contact, and received 33 responses (65%) – which is quite impressive and shows how passionate our members are about Comberbach WI.

A breakdown of the results were sent out on e mail, here’s a resume of the answers - The majority of respondents are in favour of postponing all members meetings for the rest of the year and review for 2021.

Over half of respondents would like to meet outside, observing the current Government rules and guidelines.

Ramblings newsletter was well liked and should continue, and there was a small number of members who would like to meet up via Zoom, so this is something that the committee will review and see what can be put in place.

Once again thank you for taking part in the survey – it has been very helpful and will give the committee something to work with to make sure that we try to meet with your expectations for the rest of the year. Sian.

From Sara (secretary)

Since the last edition of ramblings and relaxation of government restrictions, I have attempted to go out more.

I have been to the local pub a few times where masks are not required to be worn. Apart from cleaning your hands on the way in and putting your contact details in a book it was not a lot different from normal apart from there only being table service. No leaning on the bar making conversation. We were just about 1 metre apart but probably not recommended for the vulnerable if infections increase.

I have had a few garden meet ups with the reading group and an art session. No masks again but we were 2 metres apart in the open air so pretty OK.

I have also been to Mass which was well organised. We booked to attend with our details, we were ticked off the list and cleaned our hands when we attended, we wore masks throughout, the service was shortened to half an hour and less than 40 people attended giving us ample space. I would consider attending a church service as pretty safe if conducted along these lines.

I have been in small shops wearing a mask but only for a short time. I have done the supermarket shopping and have also shopped in John Lewis. Again, well organised, plenty of hand sanitiser, limited persons allowed in and screens at cash desks. I even managed a coffee in the café at the entry. Plenty of space. I did not feel concerned.

I serve at the Antrobus village shop where no one comes inside the shop but waits outside to be served (there is a gazebo if it rains) very well organised so if you are not happy with attending a supermarket we are well stocked and have a large variety of things you need. A lot more than the post office. Open daily between 9am and 11am.

As you may be aware our WI is hoping to arrange an open garden event. As the gardens are large and all the risk boxes will be ticked I would hope you will feel quite comfortable attending. Details etc in this newsletter.

I hope other members have attempted to venture out more. I am sure we will soon get used to where we can go where the risks are limited and hopefully meet up with friends, neighbours and other members in gardens.

I still have some Raffle Tickets left if anyone wants some. Please ring me on 01606 891 612 you want some as the counterfoils have to be sent back by the 29^th September 2020.

If anyone wants a WI Diary I will order them direct. They are £5. 10p. and are blue. Again ring me on the above number if you want one.

I hope to meet up with some of you at the open garden on the 26^th

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News of a former member.

You may remember Olga who left our WI a few years ago. I'm sure many of you will know the year... It was her 99th birthday in July and Cynthia thought it would be nice to send her a card. This was done and Cynthia received a lovely card in reply, addressed to our WI. She was thrilled to be remembered and her message was

"With best wishes to Comberbach WI. I am not very mobile and I cannot see too well, but I still like to cook my meals from scratch and I deal with problems in my garden." _____________ __________________________________________

READING GROUP

The reading group met again in my garden on Friday 24^th July. We were trying to read ‘The Tenant of Wildfell Hall’ by Anne Brontë. Some of us found it heavy going and reminded them of school but others enjoyed it once we got into it. It is a little bit different from books by the other Brontë sisters. Quite an insight into psychological abuse of women of that time. Very topical even today.

We are not meeting next month as a lot of people are not available in August and we are also hoping to have the garden event at the end of August. The library is open and the person who organises the books for book groups has been in touch but they are not yet distributing the books. I will let book group members know when they do and arrange a meeting in September hopefully.

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The Ramblers – walking group.

Hello to everybody. I hope you are all keeping safe and busy. As a W.I. member I am sure you have plenty to occupy yourselves.

On a better than expected day most of the ramblers met in my garden for coffee - what else! We were trying to decide what to do in the future but I don't think we got very far as we where too busy talking and catching up! So far next ramble day I think we decided to go to Lesley's for the W.I. day, if we are allowed to do that by then. The rules change so often We did have a couple of ideas.. Maureen managed to join us. Everyone was pleased to see her.

It's good to hear that Margery is back home and no doubt it will help with her recovery. No doubt she will have lots of visitors.

Keep safe and I hope to see you all soon. Ursula

Life after Lockdown.

Short break in the Lakes. Now that lockdown restrictions are easing, and my brother has returned to farming in N Wales having successfully completed chemotherapy, Richard and I went for two nights to Grasmere staying at the Wordsworth Hotel. It was all very pleasant and we felt safe and comfortable. The hotel was managed very well, one way traffic, room was spotless, all staff wearing masks, pre ordered meals and waiter service at breakfast - much preferred to a buffet breakfast any day! Grasmere itself was quite busy, but the walks and the beauty of the surroundings were unbeatable – and just what I needed after so many weeks of caring and cooking! Sian

______________________________________________________Denman College

You may have read the recent news about the difficult decision made by the Trustees to close Denman College. We asked some members if they could share with us their memories and experiences of Denman, so we are delighted to share these two contributions from Margaret Jefferson and Marjorie Tomsett. :-

Denman College was established in 1948 in the former Marcham Park, a Georgian manor house in Oxfordshire. Named after Lady Denman the first Chairman of the National Federation of WIs, the college ran a range of courses attended by WI members from across the country.

Students were housed, some in the main house; most in one of the units in the extensive grounds. Each room was named after a county and furnished by the appropriate federation.

When the Cheshire room (in the main house) was refurbished in the 1980s, Comberbach members were invited to supply a sewing kit.

Barbara Hughes had stitched a framed blackwork design for that years Cheshire Show entry.

That, along with a needle case in matching design were offered. There was already a lovely hinged wooden box there, and I undertook the task of relining, including a miniature embroidery of a typical Cheshire building on the inner lid. We equipped it with sewing implements.

I first went to Denman in the late 1980’s, representing Cheshire on a course on Setting up and Running an exhibition. I was very new to WI hierarchy and standing in for the original delegate, I felt honoured if somewhat daunted alongside County chairs from across the country. The course was intense but excellent, providing valuable grounding for later involvement as WI Exhibition secretary at Cheshire Show and other County Craft exhibitions.

Our accommodation was in one of a number of 2 storey blocks within the grounds, with shared bathrooms and loos at the end of the corridor.

More recently I visited with Weaver Valley WI choir, enjoying weekend courses in the new airy lecture hall, and accommodated in one of the well-appointed residential blocks that replaced the former units.

1 Marjorie with her first and last craft work - Collage of the Bungalow (mixed media) and Cheese Platter (basket work) and bead necklace.

Courses were always’ full on’ but the beautiful gardens at Denman were a good place to relax and exercise. The catering was good and socially, was great to meet other like-minded members.

Margaret Jefferson

Thoughts and Memories of Denman Marjorie Tomsett

Denman closing permanently! That can't be true! The college has been part of the fabric of the W.I. since it was opened in 1948, yet sadly it has not been able to withstand the effects of the pandemic.

My memories go back to the early 90s when I went with a group of Cheshire members who were enrolled on a variety of courses. I produced a collage representation of our house including our two black cats. and recall the visit as a time of camaraderie and discovery - The tradition of Denman teas! - the bar whose profits pay for new carpets! - the small, cosy attic bedroom of the Cheshire federation! - the chatter in the dining hall at meal times! - the concentration and effort shown in the classes! - the evening concerts! -and finally the proud students returning to the coach clutching precious craftwork or cookery.

On two occasions I was proud to be invited to be tutor on crochet courses and at another time, with three others, took and passed the practical tests to become a NFWI craft judge. Which in turn led to the rich experience of involvement with crafts of all kinds and at all levels in institutes and county shows throughout the country

Other courses I enjoyed were water colour painting and picture framing More recently my eldest daughter and I had an enjoyable time on a "Mother and Daughter" weekend when we dabbled basketry producing "mince pie platters”, beadwork making a necklace and earrings and singing a three part song "Happy together" by the Turtles. Even I (who arouses groans when I sing) managed to join in and enjoy it.

The excellence of the craftwork, cookery and projects undertaken by WI members in the past owes much to the influence of Denman and its loss will be felt by many. Regards, Marjorie Tomsett

Cheshire Federation Virtual Events.

As there is still no sign of us being able to meet face to face anytime soon, we would like to invite those members that are able to use Zoom to some very interesting meetings.If anyone would like to attend and needs help with Zoom then please contact CFWIwebeditor@outlook.com who will be pleased to help you.

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

Its great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming.. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157/ 07770863170

Looking to share things you have been up to during the lockdown, any good reads, films TV programmes you have enjoyed or recipes – or any craft items you are proud of, and of course things you are still looking forward to.

Thoughts and Memories of Denman Marjorie Tomsett

The excellence of the craftwork, cookery and projects undertaken by WI members in the past owes much to the influence of Denman and its loss will be felt by many. Regards, Marjorie Tomsett

Cheshire Federation Virtual Events.

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

Its great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming.. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157/ 07770863170

COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS September 2020. 6^th Edition

Hello everyone,

Still here, as is the virus, still preventing us from resuming normal WI activities. You should have received the mailing from The WI Federation in Chester, via Sian, so that you can sign up to be in on the Zoomed speakers they have organised. I have yet to hear if any of you have done this, and if so, what you thought of it. Replies to Sian, please, for the next newsletter!

Replying to the Federation's email, I updated them on what we are doing as a WI, and how we are progressing towards holding meetings again. Other WIs sent me their versions of events, which are pretty much like ours! In other words, there won't be any WI meetings this side of Christmas. We are still Zoom-ing as a Committee, and are having to cancel Speakers month by month.

The "bring your own lunch to Marbury" did go ahead, with around 12 members turning up, but it was quite damp and chilly, which will have put some people off coming. The ones who braved the elements seemed happy to be able to meet up and have a catch-up, and I had hoped to schedule another one this month. I had considered Thursday, 17^th, as the forecast was good, but Mr Hancock has just thrown a spanner in the works by returning us to the starting post by only allowing 6 to meet up outdoors once again. The only way we can do this is to really spread ourselves out, in sixes.

I recently called to see Margery, and never cease to be amazed at her inner strength and determination to make a full recovery. I shouldn't be, though, as we all know that Margery will never stop doing her exercises and will follow instructions to the letter. She was full of the joys of the WI, showing me some old photographs and material for the archives, and telling me all about it. Her speech has come on tremendously, and she only struggled to find words when she was tiring. Suffice it to say, we (Mim had also called in) scarcely got a word in edgeways! Margery has various therapists coming to see her each week, from having exercise; she proudly told me that she and Richard had walked up Senna Lane to the Post Office and back - speech training to occupational therapy, where she has been making scones, although she declared that the finished result wasn't up to her usual standard! The downside is that she is having to relearn reading and writing, and also how to tell the time, but she is beginning to use her laptop again, and the health professionals have installed a brain training App on it, for her to practise. All good - she is getting there, and she isn't missing too much right now.

Her daughters are also busy taking her out shopping and she told me she had been taken to the garden centre at High Legh. I also went there the other day and was horrified to see the staff putting Christmas decorations out on sale! The same can also be said for some of the discount shops in Northwich, where Quality Save has shelves full of the stuff! Too early for me! I am still dealing with other things - Lindsay kindly gave me a large bag of damsons, and I have made a lot of jam, and I still have a big pile of Bramley apples to peel and stew for the freezer, so Christmas can wait!

We are now getting to the time of year when the weather gets worse, the days gloomier and darker, the going more treacherous underfoot, and more time will probably be spent at home. The Committee has decided that each member will take responsibility for keeping in contact with 5 WI members, just to have a chat and check things are ok, and maybe to ask what they would like us to do for our Group to move things forward. Sometimes, even the Committee can run out of ideas! It will also give members the opportunity to ask for help or an errand, should they need it. Please feel free to contact me with any suggestions or comments - I can be contacted on 07756 854042 / 01606 871512 - but my message retrieval doesn't work! In the meantime, stay safe, stay sane!

Christmas Meal, I have had an update from Louise, Winnington is due to re-open next month and they are hoping to have the meals up and running. She added that a party the size of last year's will be no problem to host in the usual room, and assures me that everyone can be suitably seated, and distanced. Based on that, I think the Christmas meal should be able to go ahead! We can roll the cancelled Birthday Party into that too....it will give everyone something to look forward to and might just be the first big step in getting our WI going again. BUT - Given the latest from the Government, we shall just have to play a waiting game on this one……..

Finally, we send our best wishes to Hilary Totten, who has been struggling with her health and Rosie, whose problem with her ear, giving her vertigo, has resurfaced. Thank you, Cynthia, for sending out cards and keeping me updated. Janine.

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Caption Competition

We would love you to send your caption ideas for this marvellous photos - there will be a modest prize for the winning entry.

e-mail your ideas to sianrc@hotmail.co.uk by the 1^st October or ring 892157.
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Update from Sara Smith.

I have now sent the raffle stubs off for a draw on October 9^th. I have still to order the diaries for 2021. If anyone wants one please let me know asap.

The reading group this month has decided to discuss television programmes as there are no books forthcoming from the library. We will be watching the JK Rowlings’ series “Strike” on BBC and the new “All Creatures Great and Small” on Channel 5. We are meeting on the 22^nd in my garden. ( I have cover if it rains but it is now getting a bit chilly so I may have to light the chiminea)

Maybe we could set up a separate media group that gets together to discuss television programmes and films and could also organise cinema trips although these may be problematic at the moment. The media group could have a zoom meeting just to show how good we are at using this medium!! I am still learning.

I went on our bellringing zoom meeting last week and rang virtual bells in the virtual ringing room. A bit tricky and did nothing to help my back as I rang the bell by tapping the space bar. Easy if you can work out exactly when to ring your bell.

My garden and vegetable plot are now a mess, my carrots are stunted, my runner beans a bit bent and I have mildew on my courgettes. I am getting about 3-4 potatoes a potato plant so I think I may leave it to you professionals next year. My neighbour brought me some of his runner beans over the other week. They were long, straight, all even sized and tasted delicious. I wonder if he enters them in the local produce show. My parsnips are yet to be dug up but I bet they will all have rust on them. Ah well! back to the Duchy counter at Waitrose.

I have not been on a staycation but have just made a couple of trips south to see the grandchildren before the infection rates start to rise then we oldies may have to take cover for a while. My daughter and her children were going to try to get over in October but with the quarantines both ways it will be impossible. It will be at least a year before I will be able to see them again. I am sure there are a few grannies in our WI who find themselves in the same position. Thank goodness for Facetime etc

As our new buddy system should be getting in touch with you all re using IT, Zoom or generally keeping everyone in the loop so do not despair if you are stuck at home again for the next few months. Time to get crafting again and producing jams etc with all that summer produce. ( my jam is usually a flop too). Sara xx

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Sunflower Challenge

Lindsey had a competition with the grandchildren to grow the tallest sunflower. The seeds were all planted at the same time. Hattie’s and Bertie’s died of neglect but Billy’s did very well at about 4ft 6” however Lindsey’s won at an impressive 8ft 1”. Well done Granny!

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WI Craft Group. Mary Tilley is keen to continue hosting the group, just as soon as groups are allowed to gather indoors, but not just yet.

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Hello from Elaine…..

I hope that since lockdown has been lifted it has allowed you to get out and about a bit more, meeting friends and family, even though there are still some restrictions in place. I am certainly missing hugs!

Thankfully I was able to go on my annual holiday to The Lakes with my daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren and my best friend and her husband (who are really more like family), staying in a lovely house overlooking Loughrigg Fell, on the edge of Ambleside.

It was the very hot week and it was a good place to be together and relax. We ate at home most of the time, it was too hot to expect little ones to sit at a restaurant table. Stephanie, my daughter organised a big food shop to be delivered on the day we arrived along with a large blow up pool and water pistols, we spent many a happy hour chasing each other around the garden, shrieking at being squirted at! There was a hot tub too, so the grown ups enjoyed looking at the stars with a glass of wine in hand when the children had gone to bed.

Bowness was particularly busy, we didn't take the ferry there as usual but took out a boat of our own for a trip round the lake. Unfortunately a gust of wind blew my new sunhat into the water and it sank. Everyone else’s stayed firmly on their heads! We took the children on the open top bus to Grasmere, made our usual pilgrimage to the gingerbread shop, ate ice-cream and visited the play park, I could produce a detailed guide of children’s play parks in the area.

I have some smaller breaks planned but am not keen on travelling on an aeroplane for a while, I am keeping my fingers crossed for a full refund for a holiday I booked last year to Malaysia this October.

My little garden has been abundant with flowers this summer, as most of us, I spent quite a lot of time in it during lockdown. People gave me courgette, runner bean, butternut squash and tomato plants which have been successful. I already have blueberry, summer and autumn raspberries, eating apples, blackcurrants and gooseberries in my tiny plot behind the garage. It is so satisfying to come back to the house with a trug full of produce. I am a farmer’s daughter, so it’s in the blood!

Well, there is a taster of what I have been up to in the last few months.

Living in the centre of the village has meant I haven’t felt isolated, a chat over the wall with passers by has helped in the dark days and I have walked the lanes of our lovely countryside. Friends have been generous in leaving surprise food gifts on my doorstep and I have baked little gifts in return.

I hope to come to the next WI meet up in the park, I missed the last one and look forward to having a natter with you. Elaine

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Apple and Blackcurrant and Cinnamon Chutney

I have made the first batch of this today and its delicious… a super condiment with meats and a great way to use the abundance of cooking apples and blackberries that seem to be around at the moment! Good luck and enjoy! Sian xx

1kg Bramley Apples, peeled, cored and diced.

300g onions, peeled and sliced thinly

275g granulated sugar.

150ml balsamic vinegar

2tsp ground cinnamon

Freshly ground black pepper

300g Blackberries.

Sterilise and prepare jars in the usual manner

Put apples, onions, balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, sugar and pepper into a large pan. Place on a medium heat stirring to combine all ingredients and then bring to the boil.

Once at boiling point turn heat down at simmer for 45-55 mins. Stirring occasionally. The apples should be lovely and soft and liquid syrupy and thick.

Add the blackberries and cook for a further 10 mins. Spoon into sterilised jars and pot as usual.

Courgette and Parmesan Soup

Again, a delicious seasonal recipe to use up the bumper crop of courgettes/marrow. (When using a marrow, I peel it as the skin can be a little tough)

60 ml Olive Oli

1 tbs chopped garlic

Large handful of basil – chopped

Salt and white pepper

1kg courgettes cut lengthways and then diced.

750ml chicken stock

60 ml single cream

50g parmesan cheese, grated.

Heat oil in heavy base pan and add the courgette, garlic, basil and salt and cook for 10 mins. Add white pepper to taste and add the stock. Simmer uncovered for 8 mins.

Blend in a food processor, return to pan and add the cream and parmesan. Serve with an extra sprinkling of parmesan on top. Mmm delicious. (This freezes well if you omit the parmesan and cream, which you can add after defrosting) Sian xx

Help for Courgettes! by Rosie….

Over the years I have learned that you don’t need many courgette plants to, in a good year, end up with a glut that will keep the entire village going for weeks. This year I planted 4 seeds of 2 different varieties, intending to keep one of each. My standard conventional long green ones died and I ended up buying a better F1 hybrid plant from a garden centre. The 2 seeds of a yellow, round, variety did well. As stated and trying to be disciplined, the theory was to just plant one round one in the garden, but when one succumbed to a nasty slug nibble on its stem and it survived, I couldn’t consign it to the compost. I gave it a chance in a big trug, rather than in the ground, yes, I’m a real softie.

The crop is good this year and the neighbours and close family have benefited but I have also been looking for new inspiration for what to do with the manageable, but continuous crop. Below is a recipe that I have adapted from a Tom Kerridge recipe and has become a firm favourite in the Rowe household.

Ricotta and Courgette Pancakes

250g Courgettes (Approx 8oz), grated, skin and all

Half a 250g tub of ricotta

50g Self Raising Flour (Approx 2oz)

¾ teaspoon of Baking powder

Garlic to taste (or not). I use about half a clove finely chopped.

1 teaspoon of ground cumin

Chilli flakes or fresh chilli (optional & to your taste)

A good handful of fresh herbs. I have used Fennel, Parsley and Coriander on separate occasions, all good.

1 Beaten egg

Method

Squeeze as much liquid out of the grated courgette as you can. Mix the courgette, ricotta, flour, baking powder, herbs, garlic and chilli in a bowl and bind with the egg. Add salt and pepper.

Heat a non-stick frying pan with a little oil on a low to medium heat. Drop about a tablespoon full of the mixture into the pan and let it slightly spread. Repeat with more tablespoons of the mixture but leaving space between the pancakes. Cook for 4 minutes and then turn over and cook for a further 4 minutes until cooked. They should be golden brown, but this can take practice! The secret is low to medium heat only. Keep warm and repeat with the remaining mixture.

This mixture should make six to eight pancakes.

These are lovely with a light salad, crisp bacon or a salsa. Let your imagination run wild and, if you try them, I hope you enjoy them.

Rosie

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION – THE SHOW MUST GO ON! Anne and Mike Saville.

We had plans for our Golden Wedding, after all, it is quite a milestone. Plus we have lived in the same house in Comberbach for all of those 50 years, having moved in right after the wedding.

The plan was a holiday in the Champagne region of France in June and a celebration party for family and friends on the actual date, 11th July - .BUT that was pre Covid - 19 and Lockdown.

First our holiday was cancelled - no travel to France. Then hotels and restaurants were closed - no venues. No large gatherings anywhere. It looked as though an extended family Zoom session would be our 'Celebration'.

Despite all the restrictions, we decided we could do something, within the rules, which were constantly changing. We could not celebrate all on one day --too many people.so it had to be two days. Day one for local friends and neighbours and day two for family, all in the garden.

What if it rains, and Social Distancing.? We asked Steve at the Post Office if we could use some Fete gazebos. No problem and he even put them up for us. Two in the back garden and one in the front to help with Social Distancing, and protect against any rain.

What about Catering? we needed food. We found Gordon from Goosebrook Close who not only provided a lovely buffet on both days, but was a hive of information on the current rules for providing food under lockdown

More Tables and chairs? Steve and Paula, our neighbours opposite volunteered theirs and put them up for us.

The weather for the weekend 11th /12th July was beautiful, we had a super time, totally different to what we had originally planned, but even more memorable because of that. After celebrating on Saturday, we did it all over again on Sunday. We received some beautiful cards, and despite saying 'no presents', people were very kind and we also received some lovely 'Golden Wedding' rose bushes which we will treasure.

It's amazing what you can organise in a matter of days, when normally you would be planning for months. We would like to thank everyone who celebrated with us and are only sorry that we could not invite everyone. With love from Anne. x

LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH.

It’s great to have had your contributions for this edition – keep them coming. To contribute to the next RAMBLINGS, please contact Sian on sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring on 01606 892157/ 07770863170

Looking to share things you have been up to recently, any good reads, films TV programmes you have enjoyed or recipes – or any craft items you are proud of, and of course things you are still looking forward to.

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COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS October 2020. 7th Edition

Janine’s Jottings

Hi everyone

Sadly, there is not a lot to report, in the absence of WI activities. The Committee and I have been busy ringing round our members to have a chat and ask them if there is anything which they want us to do. We had a very positive feedback on “Ramblings”, and we hope that everyone is either receiving a hard copy or can access the email attachment. The latest copy was very well received and thank you to those who contributed We do need more of you to contribute to the newsletter, if it is to continue….it doesn’t have to be much; a paragraph about what you have been doing, an amusing anecdote, a recipe, something you have made, an interesting trip out, a poem or short story….Some of our members are quite proficient in their use of the computer, and have indicated that they would be happy to take part in a Zoom meeting, which would take the form of a light-hearted quiz?? And a virtual cuppa- or something stronger!! Please let Sian know if you would like to take part – she is putting a list together of members’ names who have already indicated their readiness to Zoom. This is seen as being an introduction to a Zoom meeting….

There was a suggestion that next month’s AGM could be held on Zoom, but I have vetoed this, as it would exclude too many of our members and I feel that the AGM is for all. Jean Harding has indicated that WIs do not need to hold an AGM in these extraordinary times, provided that all our Officers are going to continue. Given that announcement, I can say that we will all be continuing in our roles, such as they are! Rosie, Sara and I will still have to produce our reports, and everything will be recorded in our minutes which we still have to do, even in the absence of the formal meeting. These reports will all be published in the November “Ramblings” for all our members to see.

Is there anything which you would have raised at the AGM? Please let us know.

We are now heading for a stage 3 lockdown, according to the Government, so we will not be able to visit each other or meet up anywhere. The weather has also turned autumnal, so we won’t even be able to chat over a gate or hedge! We will do our very best to keep in touch with you all. I am afraid that the Christmas Meal has had to be cancelled, but Louise was very understanding and will happily cook for us again in the Spring, all being well.

Finally, stay well, stay warm, stay safe…. if we are going to be stuck at home, please let someone know if you need anything, shopping, for instance. I haven’t heard of any of our members catching Covid – I must be the only one to have had it! These are indeed testing times………

Janine

Caption Competition

June Searle is the winner of the caption competition with ‘What would our grandmother’s say!’. Well done June. Prize on its way… We will run this competition again, perhaps you have a photo which is screaming out for a humorous caption……………… Do send them in.

Denman

Following on from all the articles about Denman, I was invited, as Trustee, to formulate a response to the proposed closure of Denman, which I have done on my own account, and also on behalf of Comberbach WI. The letter is shown below:

To NFWI.

29^th September 2020.

Response to the proposed closure of Denman – made by Janine Hampton, Trustee, and as President of Comberbach W.I. on behalf of its members.

To the NFWI Board of Trustees.

The proposed closure of Denman has been discussed by the Committee at our W.I. This has enabled me to formulate our response from myself as Trustee and as President of Comberbach W.I. on behalf of all our members.

We are deeply saddened by the proposed closure and sale of Denman. It holds many memories for our members both past and present and its loss will be felt by all of us who have in the recent past been very active and supportive in raising funds to save Denman. Several of our members both past and present have attended courses at Denman and have very happy memories of their time spent there. It is a plus that the courses will continue, albeit online, but this very move excludes so many who either do not possess a computer or have no interest in pursuing things online. It is a minority at our W.I. who are willing to take part in Zoom activities and there is a small minority who are not online at all. Older members are not going to be well served by online courses.

We wonder if the end justifies the means in having a H.Q. in London which must be very expensive. Could this be relocated to Denman? Retaining Denman would be more financially advantageous as the buildings lend themselves to corporate use for conferences, team building days, themed holidays – and here the W.I. could play its part – and even using the facility for Weddings and gatherings. We suspect that Denman has not made itself relevant to modern times and with the current outbreak of Covid, the writing may well be on the wall and change may come too late.

Denman is part of W.I. history as well as being its greatest asset. Do we really want to get the developers in? A lot of imagination and hard work would be needed to change things, but we fear the decision has already been rubber-stamped and it will go. What a shame. Concerning the charitable trust, we would hope that Regional Centres would be given more funds with its satellite W.I.s responding to their Local Centres for courses and so on. If this is the path we will go down then regional centres must be suitably enhanced to replace Denman but the chance for members of W.I.s all around the country to meet and make new friends will be lost for good. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

Janine Hampton.

I'm not expecting miracles but we have at least had a say..... Janine

Sex, Secrets, Scandal and Salacious Gossip of the Royal Court, a very intriguing Zoom Meeting.

On a rather miserable Tuesday evening with nothing to look forward to until the next episode of the rather delightful series “Of all creatures great and small”, I decided to join one of CFWI’s Zoom Meeting Talks. This talk was given by the larger than life and very engaging Susan Slater who is a Leading Guide and Lecturer at Hampton Court Palace. She burst on to my screen dressed in a beautiful Renaissance Gown which she had made herself, another of her many talents, then proceeded to keep me enthralled for the whole lecture without appearing to look at a single note.

She took me on a journey from the Court of Charles II in 1660 to that of William IV, just before the reign of Queen Victoria. She laid bare the intrigues, gossip and scandals swirling around the Royal Court and how the offspring of dangerous liaisons fared. Two moments which struck a chord with me were from right at the beginning and near the end of the lecture. The first was her description of life in Charles II’s Court which was full of joyful entertainment and very promiscuous behaviour. What Susan revealed was that the country had just been released from the Puritanism of Oliver Cromwell’s Governance when, for over 10 years, any form of play or performance other than religious was banned, Christmas celebrations were banned and the making of mince pies was illegal! Making mince pies to this day is, in the strict letter of the law, illegal as the act was never rescinded. Against that backdrop it is not surprising that Charles II’s court was somewhat liberal, lockdown for 10 years puts 2020 into a different focus. The other thing that struck me was the primitive methods (and no doubt deeply uncomfortable) for preventing pregnancy. Again, it made me appreciate our advances in technology and science that we all take for granted.

The whole event, which was attended by 294 members was well organised, entertaining, educational, and fun. I am looking forward to joining some of the other events being organised by CFWI.

Rosie

See a list and links to more upcoming CFWI events on page the last page……

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Catch up from Sara

It is pouring down outside and cold. We had our September reading group meeting in my garden a week ago and although it was blowing a gale it was dry and not too cold. I do not anticipate anyone wanting to sit in my garden late October.

My art group meetings of 6 in a garden also look unlikely. It is difficult to draw with gloves on. Most of us are trying to meet our friends in our gardens or some other outside space and so far Cheshire residents have not been banned from doing that. (They may well have by the time this goes to print.)

In this vein I would like to recommend the CFWI zoom talks as one can often see members from other WIs and wave at them as well as the talks being quite interesting. We as a WI would like to set up some zoom meetings and activities. A zoom quiz for instance has been tried and tested by others. I myself am more than a little reluctant and nervous about joining a zoom meeting and

often make a mess getting on to them but once I have succeeded, I enjoy being able to chat and laugh with others in the warmth of my study. I think I am going to have to learn to set one up for the book group.

Give it a go if you get a chance. Just because we are not part of the technology generation doesn’t mean we cannot take advantage of it otherwise we could be in for a long and boring winter. I haven’t attempted singing in a virtual choir yet but I think I soon will.

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Scottish Ramblings by Diana Jones

Hello to all my very good friends in Comberbach WI. I always used to hopefully amuse you with my annual holiday escapades. This year would obviously have to be very different so we chose Scotland, unknown to me or my better half. On the 18^th September we left home and my special friend Saffron (cat), Andrew was in charge! We drove up the M6 to my daughter Gemma, in Greystoke, Near Penrith. We hadn’t seen her and husband since February/March. She gave us a lovely lunch on the back lawn in the sunshine. We stayed the night in Penrith at a lovely old hotel – The George. Next morning, I rushed across the square to one of my favourite shops a delicatessen called Grahams, which has been there for many years. I bought some delicious sausage rolls, pork pies and most of all glorious scones. We then set off for Royal Deeside.

Vic had booked a weeks stay at the East Lodge of Crathes Castle near the town of Banchory, about 15 miles east of Aberdeen. This was a beautiful property owned by the National Trust for Scotland. We used this as a base for exploring the area…

Notable visits included Braemar, Balmoral, Granton on Spey and a lovely fishing village on the Moray Forth called Gardenstown where we had lunch at Eli’s, great cheese on toast, Eli was an artist, needlewoman and crocheter. I bought a lovely crocheted flannel.

An event happened at Braemar which you might find amusing. There is an exclusive hotel in the town – The Fife Arms. Vic thought we might have lunch there but unfortunately it was fully booked, much to my disappointment, feeling sorry for me Vic later in the day rang the hotel and booked high tea at 4.30, he casually asked what the cost would be and was informed that it would be £28 per head, he then scraped himself off the floor and later cancelled the booking. We felt we could spend £56 on something more substantial.

We drove over the Cairngorms to Grantown on Spey and drove down the Whiskey Trail towards Elgin and the Moray Firth. We very much enjoyed a week of glorious weather. On Saturday Sept 26^th we left Deeside and travelled via Braemar, Glen Shee, Perth and across central Scotland to the Ayrshire coast, a 6 hour drive arriving at our destination Maidens (a small village) near Turnberry - a very different Scotland. We stayed at a nice small hotel called The Wildings (Room 5). Vic had read about the hotel in a book he was reading, it was a very pleasant small hotel with very good food. The view from the bedroom was over the harbour and the bowling green where they seemed to be having a lovely time, lots of bowlers and wives in the sunshine. We went to see the famous Turnberry Golf Club overlooking Aisla Craig. We tried to go to have a look at the Hotel, but were turned away by a rather large Scotsman in a very nice kilt and sporran.

TrumpTowers also belongs to that man – we can’t seem to get away from Donald Trump.

Vic enjoyed the atmosphere of Maidens and spent a long time chatting to various fishermen, especially some guys who were diving for Scallops, every one of which were sold to Hong Kong. Vic decided he would like to retire there.

We covered 1467 miles in our 22 year old red Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet a lot with the roof down, you can imagine what my hair looked like!

We returned home on Monday 28^th September after a very long drive, to be greeted by a very relieved pussycat.

It was a wonderful holiday considering our age. We were very careful and the Scottish people were very helpful.

I nearly forgot to tell you we called to see the Queen at Balmoral but it wasn’t open. Spent a happy hour in her small shop in the woods. Lots of red squirrels running about.

I hope to see you all sooner rather than later. With best wishes from Diana.

Send your answers to Sian before the 10^th November.

Cheshire Federation Virtual Events

These events are becoming quite popular – and well worth joining.

Here are the links for Cheshire Federation Zoom talks for October and a save the date for November.

Continuing our theme of hearing from Inspirational Women.

We have booked Wendy Mitchell, Dr Ann Featherstone and Jen Gale.

Wednesday 28th October 2020 at 7.00pm for 7.30pm start we have the pleasure in welcoming Dr Ann Featherstone who will be talking to us about ‘A Storm in a Teashop the waitresses’ strike of 1908’ Who knew this happened?

Join Cheshire Federation of WIs Zoom Meeting with: Dr Ann Featherstone Time: Oct 28, 2020 07:00 PM for 7:30pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82842512515?pwd=MENaUmU3cXhaVWlZdGlvbTlxblNKUT09

Meeting ID: 828 4251 2515 Passcode: 855271

Monday 9th November at 7pm for a 7.30 start we have the pleasure in welcoming our next inspirational women, Jen Gale. An author, public speaker with an online following of 50k and a campaigner with kindness for being Sustainable-ish. This is for absolutely anyone who wants to start doing a little bit and hopefully you’ll find comfort in knowing how much you are already doing. Having heard her speak several times Jen is highly recommended.

See Link below Join Cheshire Federation of WIs Zoom meeting with: Jen Gale Time: Nov 9, 2020 07:00 PM for 7:30pm

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81552142195?pwd=eFlEeVBITFJXay9SS1hZQTJZMFk0QT09

Meeting ID: 815 5214 2195 Passcode: 180011

If anyone would like to attend and needs help with Zoom then please contact CFWIwebeditor@outlook.com who we will be pleased to help you.

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The next edition of Ramblings will be mid November – The deadline for submissions is

10^th November please.

We are always looking for interesting articles, photos, stories and of course we will have to have a few Christmas recipes – so please start sending them to me.

sianrc@hotmail.co.uk or ring me on 07770863170 if you need any assistance with this.

COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS November 2020 8^th Edition

Including Officers Annual Reports.

Presidential Ponderings. November is here again, and I can truly say that the status quo has been maintained, in that nothing of note has happened, with the exception that your President has had a milestone birthday last month and for the record, I am going to stay 69. “Ha!” I hear you say” - a mere youngster” and “you won’t be catching me up yet!” All I can add is “Thank goodness that one is over!” I can’t believe how quickly this year has gone, despite having to spend much of it at home.

Lest we forget, November is also the month of the AGM. Having emailed Jean Harding, I was assured that we could dispense with the formalities, provided that all our Officers are willing to continue. You will be pleased to note that we are all staying firmly put, so the prospect of twisting arms up backs to help us out has been avoided. We have been asked by CFWI to provide Officers’ Reports for all our WI members to peruse, so you will find these included in this issue. These reports were circulated to all Committee members prior to October’s Zoom Committee meeting and have been formally proposed and seconded by Committee members, and everything has been minuted. You are all welcome to make any observations.

The Committee was also delighted to welcome Margery back online, but since our meetings are limited to 45 minutes, so we don’t have to pay to use the facility, we had to get the business done, only leaving us a short time to chat and welcome her back. Margery did say that she is also trying to get back to online Vale Royal Group meetings, as well as resuming contact with the Agricultural Society. Her progress continues, we are so pleased to note!

Sadly, as indicated earlier, we have to report that nothing has taken place on a formal basis, and no-one in their right minds would want to meet up in Marbury, given the amount of rain we have been having. I need to dig the wellies out. I can’t even spend much time outside to tidy up and I have now decided that the wettest part of my limited outdoor space would make an ideal bog garden. The slugs, however, are sharpening their teeth and having a field day, chomping on what is left. I have put some gravel down and I hear that beer is good too, but don’t fancy disposing of the bodies afterwards! My planted bowls have been put on the patio table out of their reach!

Not to be beaten - Janine’s answer to next door wreath!

Next month we are going to discuss activities which we can provisionally book for next year, as this pandemic can’t go on for ever…we hope! We just hope that this latest lockdown has the desired effect. We are looking to arrange an outing for the summer, as well as re-booking some of the speakers we had hoped to have this year. We shall also look at the possibilities of rearranging a meal so we hope to be able to “hit the ground running” once we eventually get the all-clear. We are happy to listen to any suggestions and wishes our members may have. We all need something to look forward to and my next door neighbour has reminded me that December 25^th is not that far away by hanging a Christmas wreath on her front door before we had even had Halloween or Bonfire Night! Whether we will be able to celebrate with all family members is another matter, but we live in hope and I hope no-one will be on their own. Moving on………stay safe! Janine Hampton.

Comberbach WI Annual General Meeting Reports for 2019-2020

President’s annual report – November 2020 for record in lieu of AGM.

No-one could have foreseen what this year had in store for us all when I was chosen as President in November 2019, and what effect the Covid pandemic would have on our WI. As a result, our AGM is not going to be held this year, but having established that our key officers are willing to continue in their posts, Jean Harding has advised me that we are not obliged to hold an official AGM. We are, however, obliged to produce the usual reports from myself, as President, from Sara, our Secretary, and from Rosie, our Treasurer, and these will serve as “minutes”. We sincerely hope that next year will be different!

For me, the year got off to a good enough start. I consider myself fortunate to have the services and support of an excellent Committee, and we number 12 in all, a good number, which gives us cover in the event of illness, problems etc. Little did we know how much this “cover” would be needed. It has been a difficult year in so many ways, with various illnesses taking their toll, as well as Covid effectively cancelling the rest of the year after we had held our March meeting. We have missed out on so much as a result: our monthly meetings, Vale Royal Group meetings, darts, the Birthday Party, a planned theatre trip, a fish and chips cruise, a trip to the Ulverston area, and now, our Christmas meal. The Cheshire Show has also been a casualty, sadly, but we have to remain optimistic, anticipating its return in 2021.

Communication has been key. We have managed to hold Committee meetings on Zoom. We have also managed to get the sub-groups going again in a limited way, but meeting in gardens and parks is less than ideal at this time of year, but we have had some success. Regarding communication with our WI members, our “Ramblings” newsletter was launched, phone calls and emails have been exchanged and we have set up a “Send to All” message scheme, so everyone can be informed about what is happening. CFWI has organised a good selection of Speakers to address WI members on Zoom, and these have been excellent. It is a shame that not all of our WI members can access it. We are becoming more limited as to what we can offer our members in terms of meeting up, but we shall continue to keep in touch. We are hoping to launch a members’ meeting on Zoom soon, for those who are happy to use the technology. In the meantime, we can only hope that restrictions will be eased in the New Year, and that we will be able to return to the Hall.

In the midst of all this upheaval, I must not forget the efforts of the Committee, all of whom I must thank for their contributions and efforts, however small. Rosie has worked wonders again, making sure that the books remain balanced, Sara has continued to deal with our correspondence and produce minutes for our Zoomed meetings, Irene and Monica have looked after raffles and prizes, Lesley and Shelly have dealt with the programme, sadly, having to cancel, rather than book, Lindsay has been very proactive in organising outings for us, and again, having to cancel them, and Sian has done a sterling job in keeping the lines of communication open, as well as keeping the website updated. I mustn’t forget all our other Helpers, who do their fair share in helping to keep the Comberbach WI cogs well oiled, especially Cynthia, who has kept me informed about who has been unwell, and I thank her for sending cards out as needed.

So, let’s get Christmas over with and we shall raise a virtual glass to each other, and look forward to the Spring, the reduction in the Covid infection rate, the easing of restrictions and us all being able to meet again.

I offer up this report as a true statement of the past year for Comberbach WI. Janine Hampton President.

Proposed by Sara Smith, Seconded by Rosie Rowe

Treasurer annual report – November 2020 for record, in lieu of AGM

I am pleased to present to you my third Annual Report as Treasurer, but as I am sure you will understand it is quite different to my previous reports.

Our Financial Year runs from 1^st October to 30^th September each year, so at the beginning of October I produced the annual financial statement, which was duly handed to our auditor, Mr Steve Penwill for his scrutiny and final approval. As of writing this I am awaiting the results of his audit.

Under normal circumstances I would provide copies of the last bank statement and a copy of the accounts for members to study at our AGM. This is not taking place so instead I will be happy to discuss the accounts with any interested members by phone.

As noted, this Financial Year has been far from normal with almost all of our activities being curtailed in March. From that point we have had no income but some modest outgoings such as payment for the Memorial Hall to March, maintenance of our website and minor Members’ expenses.

The following are the main points I wish to make you all aware of:

Our final Bank Balance for the year is £3820.53 which is only £30.74 down from last year.
The two events we ran prior to lockdown, i.e. the great shopping evening to John Lewis last November and the Christmas Meal in December were effectively cost neutral.
Our speakers’ charges were within our budget as were other expected charges such as hall fees.
We gained £67.50 from the Christmas Raffle and from closing the Trading Table,
Ten members benefited from a half day felting course which was paid for out of the Bursary awarded to Janine Hampton. Thank you to Janine for offering part of her Bursary for this activity.

As in other years, we have benefited from some excellent speakers and demonstrators at our meetings, (at least up to March), free refreshments at meetings and free copies of the CFWI Cheshire News. We also benefit from having our own website and Facebook page and of late a monthly Newsletter of our own, “WI Ramblings”.

Our current membership stands at 60 which includes 4 dual members. We welcomed one new member this year. As you will all be aware the subscription fees for 2021 have been delayed until 1^st April and will be due on that date hence forth.

As noted, most of our activities have been curtailed and it could be many months yet before it is possible to have face to face meetings back in the Memorial Hall. Many of our ambitions have had to be put on hold but the one thing we are absolutely committed to is keeping everyone engaged and hopefully eager to return to the WI meetings when the world gains some normality.

Finally, I hope this report meets with your approval. Overall, our accounts are stable and in a healthy condition considering the current circumstances. It has been my honour and privilege to serve as your Treasurer over the last year and I look forward to the next year with hope.

I propose the adoption of the Financial Statement.

Rosie Rowe Treasurer

Proposed by Janine Hampton, seconded by Sian Chandler

Secretary annual report – November 2020 for record, in lieu of AGM

This has been a rather unusual year for our WI. It cannot be said to be a good year but it has had it’s moments. We have sadly lost Betty Moore a long standing loyal member when she died in January. We were also shocked to hear that our Committee member extraordinaire, Margery suffered a serious illness but happily is now making good progress and she hopes to be back to take part in the Cheshire Show of 2021.

I became secretary after last years AGM unopposed. I felt I had enjoyed 2 years of friendly committee meetings with plenty of tea and cake as a simple committee member and that now I should be willing to do a bit more especially as most of the committee has already done their stint as one of the officers. I took the job on knowing that I had plenty of people with experience to help me.

It would appear that it is my duty to report back on the activities of the committee. They have all worked very hard particularly in the unusual circumstances we now find ourselves in.

Our programme for this year was all planned and set out for everyone to enjoy and it has been with much sadness that since March they have had to cancel one speaker after another when it became obvious we could not continue not to mention the exciting trips that were being organised that would have to be cancelled. We are hoping that many of the cancelled speakers can be rebooked and trips reorganised.

Lindsay Entwistle retired as our president but volunteered to help as a simple committee member as she had a lot of good ideas and contacts to arrange some very interesting outings.

Before the sky fell in we managed to enjoy a lovely Christmas meal. We also had an enjoyable evening with a Beetle drive although there was a little bit of a dispute re the rules.

We managed to enjoy a lunch at the Antrobus Arms in February and there were plans to arrange another one. We took part in one of the heats for the County Quiz and although we did not qualify for the final we were looking forward to hosting the final in the April. A number of members enjoyed the pom pom felting course and produced some lovely fluffy dogs. We were about to take part in the Darts competition which was cancelled at the last minute along with the group AGM.

The committee were putting in a lot of work organising our 70th Birthday Party. Jean Harding was invited and had accepted. They had planned a party based on the WI through the ages, had arranged for a deluxe cold buffet and were working on some interesting exhibits and games.

Cheshire show meetings commenced with a lot of inspiring ideas being put forward for our entries. A Fish and Chips canal cruise had been arranged plus a visit to a Buddhist Temple in Ulverston. Lindsay was also trying to arrange a theatre visit to watch The Mousetrap.

Alas as lockdown was looming it became obvious that these activities would not be able to take place and the committee had to start cancelling everything.

To start with we felt some events may still have been able to take place or be delayed for a while. It soon became obvious that that was not going to happen. We even hung on until about a month ago before cancelling this years Christmas Party.

In the meantime, the committee started writing and circulating Ramblings which has been a great success with many thanks to Sian for all her hard work assembling everyone’s contributions and circulating it. It has then become a monthly publication which is much appreciated by everyone.

Committee meetings moved to Zoom thanks to Janine who sorted it out with the help of her son and despite Covid rules preventing Leslie from having her usual garden party we managed an outdoor get together in Marbury Park in the summer.

A lot of us joined in with the front garden Comberbach Fete and friends have spent summer meeting in their gardens. The book group has managed a few outdoor meetings of 6 and the walking group have so far managed a get together in Ursula’s garden and a ramble round Marbury.

The committee have looked into and discussed at length restarting meetings but decided it was too complicated at the moment. They have also formed a Buddy system so that members can be consulted for their views on joining any zoom meetings or activities.

I would like at this point to thank all the committee members for all the hard work they have put in this year arranging and cancelling speakers and events and also coming up with innovative suggestions to keep all members in touch with each other and being available to assist if asked.

We are now approaching AGM time again and the committee debated whether to hold it on zoom but felt there were too many members who either did not have access to a computer or did not feel confident enough to join a meeting. We have been told by County that in the circumstances if all the officers and committee members are willing to continue we can minute the details and no formal AGM need take place. My report together with the President’s and Treasurer’s are therefore to be published in Ramblings for everyone to read if they wish.

I am happy to continue as your secretary and look forward to when I can minute a member meeting again. Sara Smith, Secretary.

Proposed by Janine Hampton, seconded by Lindsey Entwistle.

Halloween by Elaine Perry

Comberbach exhibited it’s community spirit once again with the ‘Light up Comberbach’ event for Halloween in glorious technicolour.

There were ghosts, ghouls and spider webs galore, people still finding an appropriate way in these strange times to give a little entertainment and a sweet treat or two for the children to collect.

I’m afraid my house was in darkness as I was at my daughters for the weekend, joining my family bubble and viewing their locally dressed houses with my grandchildren, Sophie aged 3 as a witch and Ollie 5 as a skeleton. The decorations were amazing, it was obvious to see that people were in need of some light relief as lockdown loomed once again and made the most of rising to American standards of marking Halloween. I remember being in New York in 1997 witnessing their October 31st celebrations which I found amazing, it was much more low key in the UK then. A few years later staying near San Francisco with friends I knew what to expect. The city workers, business people etc dressed quite outrageously going about their business and the houses were very elaborately dressed.

Many people in the village are leaving up their outdoor lights in preparation for Christmas. I suspect Comberbach may be even brighter and more colourful this year, hopefully in celebration of an easing of lockdown as well as marking Christmas itself.

Sara’s contribution to the Halloween and lights event in Comberbach. A lot of families with children seem to have toured the village looking at all the decorations and picking sweets off bushes and washing lines. My sweets were in a basket outside the front door and instead of the usual knock at the door I heard the chortle of delight when the children found the sweets and a little boy who was dressed up peering through the window. It was charming. Everyone in the village seems to think it was much better than the usual Halloween.

I also had a bonfire night celebration in my garden on the 4th(brought forward a day) I lit my fire and we had sausages baked potatoes and parkin. The neighbours set off fireworks which we watched. Just the 5 of us but it was a lovely evening. I will now have to find more stay at home things to do for the next month, I could even start my Christmas cards early, I am usually always late sending them off. This lockdown will hardly bother us unless we need our hair doing. We will just have to be a bit more organised with our Christmas Shopping. December may be a bit busy!
Don’t forget if you need anything even if it is just a chat ring your Buddy group leader. That way no one should feel on their own. Sara”

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WI online, CFWI Zoom Talk review by Margaret Jefferson.

For some reason, I missed the first of the Zoom talks titled” Inspirational Women” offered by Cheshire Federation. Maybe it clashed with Bake Off!

I decided I ought to take advantage of the opportunity to hear what was offered. After all it is available to all Cheshire members. The second talk was billed as an account of the speaker’s early onset dementia. The subject did not sound particularly appealing, but my misapprehension was quickly dispelled.

Fulshaw Park WI reading group had read Wendy Mitchell’s book “Somebody I Used to Know”. The book proved popular, so when the board of trustees were considering speakers for the upcoming Zoom talks it was suggested that Wendy be invited.

She worked as a busy and dedicated administrator in the NHS, organising rotas for teams of nursing staff. Diagnosed in 2014 with “Early Onset Dementia” at the age offered v58, life changed radically for Wendy. Early retirement followed some months later.

Technology features large in Wendy’s life now. Reminders of mealtimes, and engagements, writing a blog. She continues to live alone, with support from her daughters.

Despite all life’s limitations, she became involved in a dementia support group in her home city of York.

Now she is an ambassador for Dementia Research, working to raise awareness of the disorder, speaking to professionals and lay workers.

Wendy was an engaging and inspirational speaker. I am now enjoying her book, written in collaboration with Anna Wharton. – “Somebody I used to know “

I also ordered a copy of the book which I have now read, I am very happy to pass it round. Let me know if you would like to borrow it in due course. Sian x

Denman on line Courses.

Sian recently joined around 90 members on the Cryptic Crossword taster session run via Denman – it was fascinating, but the Cryptic world still is mysterious to me! - Have a look at this link to see if anything floats your boat….. https://www.denman.org.uk/whats-on/

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Greetings from Hampshire. I am yet again playing the part of Lock down Granny. Guess what, the children have grown so pushing the double buggy is now a really good workout. Unfortunately, the sleeping habits are the same. It's musical beds most nights. Felix, now 9 months is a charmer and loves bashing his toys. He has very healthy lungs which is a mixed blessing at 4 in the morning. Sarah is Sarah with a lovely smile but lots of hard work. Lifting her is getting more difficult with her long legs. Great excitement here as they are moving house shortly and have actually signed the contract. There is a downstairs bedroom for Sarah and lots of space. The new house is close to Portsmouth. I am looking forward to a paddle in the sea when we are allowed. Let us hope things return to normal soon and I look forward to seeing you all before too long. Very best wishes from Lesley.

As you can imagine there has been no walking or even meeting up with the Ramblers recently. We did think that we might have managed a local one in September but it rained!
On behalf of the Ramblers we wish all our friends in the W.I. A very happy Christmas and New Year and we look forward to seeing you all next year. Ursula

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------November’s not that bad! By Rosie Rowe.

November can seem a dreary month. The dark nights are with us, the mist and damp and fog and on the rare occasions we see the sun, it is mellow and weak. Put another take on it as far as the garden goes and there is still much to gladden the heart. Grasses back lit by sun, berries on the trees and blankets of golden and red leaves from the acers carpeting the ground, all give delight.

This year we have so far escaped the frosts so in my garden, I still have a profusion of flowers which I am able to cut for the house. Annual cone flowers, late flowering delphiniums, deep red persicaria, delicate fuchsias and the stalwart Dahlias all give splashes of colour and although the colours are not as vibrant as at the height of summer they have a different but no less appreciated charm.

A walk around the garden or just around the hedgerows can reveal hidden gems under the blanket of fallen leaves. If you look carefully there are already signs of growth in next years spring bulbs, a reminder of all that goes on unseen in the ground.

Half an hour in the garden at dusk is magical at this time of year. We have at least two types of owls and they call to each other from late afternoon. The blackbirds, robins, finches and wrens are in full voice and then, just at night falls, the bats sweep over the garden and the hedges. Who cannot feel joy at such natural delights?

When all else fails, you can plan. If you are mad keen like me, burning questions are what vegetables shall I grow, where am I going to plant all the tulip bulbs that now need to go in the ground, what annual flowers will I grow to plug the gaps in high summer, what changes will I make in the lay out of the garden next year (all gardens evolve and often faster than you expect), the list goes on. As you will gather, I love my garden. It brings me peace, joy, and a feeling of well-being much needed now. As many gardeners say, November is not the end but the beginning of the next gardening year and I fully concur. Here is to a splendid 2021! ________________________________________________________________________

Recipe…by Janine Hampton

A straightforward recipe for Macarons - as featured in the Great British Bake Off These little treats are relatively easy to make and are great for a festive buffet. Why pay M & S prices?

Set oven to 160 degrees C
Mix 125g ground almonds and 200g icing sugar together – set this aside.
Whip 3 egg whites in a large bowl to stiff peaks.
Slowly whisk in ½ teasp. cream of tartar and 2 tbspns. caster sugar – increase whisk speed slowly – the contents of the bowl should be smooth and glossy.
Fold in any food colouring you want, natural or artificial.
Fold in the almond/icing sugar mix from 1. The mixture should now look like shaving foam.
Prepare a piping bag with a ½” round nozzle.
Use this to pipe the mixture into 2” (or a little smaller if you prefer) circles on to a baking sheet with non-stick parchment. Allow room for spreading.
Dampen a finger to smooth down the peaks from your piping.
Tap tray to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 10-15 minutes approx.
Rest macarons afterwards for an hour. The macarons should not be sticky.
Sandwich the macaron shells together with a filling of your choice

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COMBERBACH WI RAMBLINGS. December 2020. Edition 9

JANINE’S JOTTINGS.

I think we can all be agreed on the fact that this has been a year like no other. When I raised a glass to 2020, hoping for a better year, I never dreamed it would be our own annus horribilis. Those of us who have remained fit and well are indeed fortunate, and I hope that continues to be the case. At least there is hope on the horizon with the vaccine having been approved and is now ready to be rolled out. I wonder which WI member will be the first to get the jab. We might just be able to meet up again in the Spring, all waving our vaccination certificates to a sanitized Hall.

We had another Zoomed Committee meeting, where we decided that our first meeting back, whenever that might be, would be a general chat and catch up, maybe, with cake and a cuppa, if that is permitted by then. We could then have a games night, Beetle Drive, quiz or whatever…by that time, we should know how things will pan out, and make further plans. Lesley is hoping to re-book the outing to the Buddhist Temple, but we decided to wait until the autumn for that, in case we might have to cancel again. I scarcely dare make any arrangements for Birthday Party and replacement Christmas meal just yet, but I am on the case….we all need something nice to look forward to.

On the business side of things, in the December edition of WI Life the Resolutions for next year were outlined and a voting form was included. There is a resume of the resolutions at the end of this Ramblings edition. Please give these your consideration – and thank you in advance for voting! I shall have to set Margery on your case if our WI doesn’t vote!!

At least you don’t need to worry about subs in January, as this has been moved back to April, but the membership booklets arrived by courier this morning! These will be passed to Rosie.

On a personal note, I have been keeping a low profile, as I don’t fancy a second round of Covid-19, and I have heard of at least 2 people who have had it twice. We are delighted that Margery has been making huge improvements and is getting back to the Margery we all know and love, and I am very confident that she will be running the Cheshire Show for our WI again next year. We are very sorry to hear of Monica’s loss – some of our WI members have not had an easy year. We hope for better in 2021.

In the week when you are reading this, someone from the Committee will deliver “A little Something” to all our members. You may remember that we had raised some money towards subsidising the Birthday Party, and that had to be cancelled along with everything else…so we decided to use these funds to treat everyone instead. We can always raise more funds…..so we hope that you enjoy your small gift and accept it in the spirit in which it is intended. A big thank-you to all my Committee members who have kept us going, and to the WI members who have kept in touch and given their support.

Enjoy the Festive season with your families and close ones. Have a good one…

Janine.

A BIG THANK YOU

At the start of the New Year 2020, none of us could predict what would follow. The committee had sketched plans for meetings, outings and celebrations of Comberbach WI’s 70th anniversary.

Then Covid 19 cast its ugly shadow and everything changed.

The committee have been amazing, supporting members throughout. The monthly issue of WI Ramblings has kept us in touch. We have looked forward to every issue.

May I offer a huge thank you to each and every member of committee for all their hard work and encouragement of us all.

Margaret Jefferson

WI talk with Norley WI. Thursday, 12^th November 2020.

I was encouraged to join one of the Zoom talks having had positive feedback from some of our own WI members who have been involved. I wasn’t disappointed! Norley WI organised the Speaker, taking advantage of their Secretary, Pat Rugg’s link to the Isle of Lewis as her son lives there. We had 2 speakers as it happened, both working together to promote the unique product of Harris Tweed. Norman MacDonald gave us a brief introduction and assured us that the weather was indeed dreadful in the Outer Hebrides right now and Lorna MacCaulay gave the main talk. 75 WI ladies had Zoomed in to hear it which was an excellent audience. Tricia Jones and I represented Comberbach WI and there were representatives from Norley, Great Budworth, Davenham, Hartford, Moulton, Round Tower, Whitegate, Winsford, The “Wiches” and Vale Royal Group.

We heard how Lady Dunmore in the 19^th century got the islanders weaving and started the sale of tweed. Crofters were sent over to the mainland to learn the art of weaving, and this continued through to the 20^th century. The cloth was woven in the weaver’s own home, collected approximately a week later and sent to be factory finished. There are currently 3 mills on the island. Nowadays weavers take a course leading to an official qualification. The average age of weavers has fallen from 61 in 2008, to 51 in 2018. All the wool is dyed before it is woven. As with most produced goods, demand has fluctuated, and demand rose again after World War II.

Production was not without its problems as the cloth was copied and makers tried to pass their inferior goods off as the genuine Harris Tweed. This wasn’t a recent problem either. Cases were brought against those who aimed to deceive, but the officers of the lawyers who were dealing with the litigation were blown up in the Blitz in 1939. In 1964 progress was made in that it was decided that Harris Tweed could only be woven in the Outer Hebrides – population 26,500 – and only the genuine article could bear the Harris Tweed “orb” mark. Production really boomed after that but then the coming of fleece jackets affected sales. Tweed was seen to be less fashionable and fleece was warm without the weight, cheap to buy and easy to launder too. The whole trend of moving towards more casual dress was a contributory factor in decline in demand for the tweed. In 1993 an Act was passed to protect the tweed and where it could be woven.

In 2008, demand rose again and it was deemed necessary to diversify to maintain the brand. Lighter cloth was produced for women’s fashion and the cloth was also used more extensively in the production of accessories and is now even used in upholstery. Diversification has helped the brand appeal to the younger market. Exports are important, especially to Germany and Japan. The most bizarre use of the tweed was seen in Japan as a sleeve for a take-away coffee cup! Chanel became involved with the brand, using the tweed in their collections. Celebrity endorsement gives the Harris Tweed brand a huge boost. Prince Charles, Camilla Parker-Bowles and Kate Middleton have been seen sporting the tweed as well as Ivanka Trump and Vivienne Westwood, who caused a stir by using a very similar trademark to that of the tweed ; a problem which had to be settled by mutual agreement. Even luxury cars have been “pimped” with the tweed but the Range Rover manufactures were in trouble for putting a Harris Tweed plaque on the back of an expensive model which had merely had 2 thin strips of the fabric inserted into the upholstery.

As well as the core designs and colours new lines and colours are added each season, whilst older ones are discontinued. This helps to keep the brand fresh. The occasional commission is also undertaken. Some of the old looms are still in operation- 38 of them, which produce single width cloth, and there are 190 of the newer looms operating, producing double width cloth, these coming into service in 1990. A new loom costs £20,000, so looms are handed down through families, and are even shared. We had a slideshow presentation of the tweed making process as well as being able to see some of the views across the island, and some of the new colours and designs.

The whole talk was very interesting and it is good to hear that the brand is very much alive and flourishing. There were many questions afterwards. The talk lasted much longer than had been originally planned - a testament to the level of interest and enjoyment.

Janine Hampton

Amaretti Biscuits, by Elaine Perry –

Here’s a recipe to use up a little of the Ameretto that maybe sitting in the drinks cupboard from one Christmas to the next! Very easy to make, soft centre little bites. The recipe says it makes 30 biscuits; I only ever manage to make 25. I am obviously wanting bigger biscuits! Enjoy….

Makes about 30 biscuits: (or 25 large ones!)

Preheat oven to 170 deg C, (150 fan) mark 3.

Line 2 large baking sheets with baking parchment.

Whisk 2 egg whites until stiff, then fold through 175g each of caster sugar and ground almonds. Add 1 tablespoon of amaretto and mix.

Roll teaspoon sized portions into balls using damp hands. Toss in icing sugar to coat. Arrange on the baking sheets, spacing apart.

Bake for 20 minutes, until lightly golden and slightly puffed.

Cool on a wire rack.

Garland Craft by Alison Horton

I hope you are getting into the Christmas excitement even though it will be different for many of us. Here are some idea for Christmas decorations.

I have started with a swag for the door which not too complicated.

Start with your background foliage and lie it down, trying to make a regular shape. Then layer the next foliage on top. I have chosen a lighter colour so it stands out. Once you are happy with the shape, wire it all together at the top moving the foliage around until you are happy.

Tie a bow in you chosen ribbon making sure one tail is longer than the other and wire it to the top.

Then add some wired fir cones keeping them in a three for more impact.

I have used small gold baubles keeping to the gold theme.

Whichever ribbon you choose try to pick that colour out with whatever you attach to your swag, so it will look less fussy.

Here is a simple, but eye catching little tree.

I carefully picked some dogwood choosing branches that had more stems coming from them and popped them a in bottle with a strand of Christmas beads in the bottom.

Then I hung small baubles in one tone to again have more impact.

The last one is a hall table decoration I did last year.

The greenery etc is all pushed into a small block of oasis. This could be a table decoration if you made the foliage go all the way round and added more berries or cones. I added lights to give it some sparkle which looked pretty in our dark hallway. I love the glow when the candle is lit.

I hope this will inspire you to have a go. Put on your Michael Bublé and be creative !

Happy Christmas, love from Alison

JANINE’S EASY CHRISTMAS MAKE-IT TREE

You will need:

Thin card or thick paper to make a template

Suitable cotton fabric (or similar) and thread

Wadding to stuff.

Bell(s) to embellish

Draw a tree template using the measurements supplied or vary it to suit yourself.

Cut out, place on fabric and cut 6.

Place these, right sides together, to make 3 “pairs”

Stitch around perimeter of each of the 3 but leave enough gap at base for stuffing

Turn right side out

Press and place the 3 trees on top of each other

Stuff and work the filling well into the branches – you need to be able to machine stitch down the centre

Sew the 3 together down the centre, from tip to base

Close base by hand

Embellish with bells to tip and ends of branches if desired, or anything else which takes your fancy! Please note – you can stuff the trees after you stitch the 3 together, but it is not as easy this way Happy sewing!

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Christmas is approaching. Comberbach is now adorned with lights and snowmen thanks to the efforts of the fete committee. I am afraid 50 Senna Lane has not made a snowman but other committee members have entered the competition. I will be there for the pizza though.We are all unsure as to what we are willing to do this Christmas as we know for certain there will be a surge in infections following Christmas. I am hoping to travel to my son’s but not mix on the way down and not mix with anyone but their immediate family once there. I do not want to catch it now vaccines are round the corner. Some of you may have already been invited for yours when this ramblings comes out. Not long now before we can start meetings again.

I think that after Christmas I will adopt the Hugge principals to weather the expected 3^rd peak. Warm slippers, fluffy blankets, candles and lots of books and crafts. The weather is so dismal at the moment that I am quite glad I do not have to drag myself out in the evenings to my various activities. I hope to come out in glory in spring with all the bulbs. ( a bit plumper mind as my husband’s hobby is cooking with lots of butter and cream)

Keep the faith, not long now and please let Sian know if you have anything interesting to put in the newsletter including any Christmas photos. Also, if you have any ideas for activities and outings

once we are up and running again, please let us know so the committee can see what we can arrange.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS ALL

Sara

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Memory gallery from Lynn McCulloch Sometime in the 1980s for the big group

Can you remember the events and name all the ladies???

Christmas Meal at the Moorings, sometime in the 1980s.

See who you can spot!

Here are the names but not necessarily in the right order.

Cynthia Jones, Edith Fuller, Val Ward, Diana Jones, Melba Savin-Jones, Betty Moores, Ida Meakin, Elsie Hardy, Joyce Stock, Lyn McCulloch and Marjorie Tomsett.

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CFWI ZOOM

TUESDAY, 22 DECEMBER 2020 AT 19:00 UTC

Virtual Zoom Christmas Celebration with Helen Eadie

Please contact - CFWIwebeditor@outlook.com for a link

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Some photos of the amazing Snowmen/Christmas features, on display around Comberbach this Christmas – Great effort once again.

A bit of Christmas laughter!

Resolutions 2021. Have your say on the next WI campaign.

We are asked to consider five resolutions and to choose the one that you would like to see go forward for further discussion and voting following the AGM in April 2021.

Below are the proposers’ position on each of the resolutions. There is much more information in the December edition of WI Life and at My WI My WI | Resolutions 2020/21 (thewi.org.uk).

Please give these your consideration, your vote is important.

Ways to submit your vote this year are –

return the voting slip to Sara Smith, 50 Senna Lane. Use the form below, or from December WI Life.
By Telephone to Sara with your choice - 01606 891612
E mail – saram.smith@yahoo.com

Votes need to be in with Sara by 10^th January please.

Resolution 1 A call to increase awareness of the subtle signs of ovarian cancer

The proposer would like the WI to raise awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer among women and healthcare professionals, to help ensure that women receive early treatment where necessary.

Resolution 2 Stop women dying prematurely from coronary heart disease (CHD)!

The proposer is concerned about the prevalence of coronary heart disease in women. She would like to see the WI raise awareness of the symptoms to help prevent premature deaths.

Resolution 3 Racism and Discrimination

The proposer would like to see the introduction of a WI campaign that calls on decision makers to take concrete action to stamp out racial inequalities across society. They would also like to see WI members raise awareness and further education of these issues in order to increase recognition of, and help to address, this inequality and injustice.

Resolution 4 Now's the time to Act! Protect your nature space to create wildlife-friendly communities

The proposer would like WI members to participate in national and local wildlife schemes and encourage their WI branches to take action to protect wildlife in their own communities in order to create a network of wildlife-friendly UK communities.

Resolution 5 Stop the destruction of peat bogs to tackle climate change

The proposer would like the WI to raise awareness of the damaging effects of peat-based compost amongst its members and the general public, and to encourage the use of peat-free compost by working with garden centres to ask them to stock alternative peat-free compost products.

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