About us
Current members of Kings Sutton were asked when and why they joined the WI and to provide a poignant memory. It was an interesting response, some ladies had been members since they were a teenager, some ladies were members of other WI's before joining Kings Sutton, and some ladies joined just because they fancied it! One member also gave a very special insight into her life with the WI, and can be read here.
Sheila joined in 1950 whilst living in a Welsh Village. "I was a young bride in a Welsh village knowing no-one. We were an evening institute which was rare in those days. The subscription was tied to the standard agricultural hourly wage! I can remember we were 100 strong and known as Mrs Summerhills' Young Ladies. Mrs Summershill was the local Doctors wife and permanent President. About half of the members were young wives like me, whose husbands had been imported from all over England to be the technical staff for the new industries which were being set up to employ redundant miners. We entered choir competitions and drama competitions."
Anne B joined Kings Sutton WI in 2010. "I moved to the village just over 5 years ago - a city girl born and bred, and then lived in a town for all my adult life. So village life was a big change for me! But I always wanted to join the WI, and, at an early village event after our move, I met two members, who invited me to their AGM and Harvest Supper. It was immediately apparent that this is a group of amazing women, each with their own fascinating story to tell, with such a robust and strong attitude to life, and a love of food and drink, company, entertainment and fun! I also learned - over time - what an invaluable social network it is for women as they grow older, most of all when women become widows - when the very real practical and emotional support of the WI is a key to continued contented living."
Susanne joined Kings Sutton WI in 2010. "I had recently moved to the village and decided this was the best way to get to know village people. I can remember on my first night I knew no-one and was rather worried I would be ignored. But, three ladies went that extra mile and made me VERY WELCOME. Thank you to June, Ba and Rosemary for making sure I came again."
Lynette joined Kings Sutton WI in 2009, "I met an existing member while we were walking our dogs. We got chatting and she told me about the WI. I was looking for somewhere to go and make some new friends. That was in 2007. I can remember the first time I went along to a meeting I was greeted and introduced to everyone and they all had warm welcoming smiles. Then, soon after joining I was co-opted onto the Committee."
Anne R joined Shutford WI in 2008, and after moving to Kings Sutton in 2014 joined as a Dual member. "I was invited as a guest, enjoyed it very much and became a member. I can remember it was lots of fun, some exceptional speakers and very enjoyable meetings."
Jean B joined a different WI in 1969, and later joined Kings Sutton in 2015. "In those days most young mums in our village joined the WI. I can remember being Treasurer and it was a lot of fun. I went to the AGM at the Royal Albert Hall the year Christine Archer attended!"
Chris joined Kings Sutton WI in 1979. "I joined the WI because I wanted too. I can remember the instant I joined I was made Treasurer and Committee Member. I was Treasurer for 8 years."