THE Avon Federation of Women’s Institutes (AFWI) marked its 50th anniversary at the annual meeting, celebrating its work supporting local Women’s Institutes across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset.

The institution provides guidance and support to local WIs and organises a variety of events open to all members, with some also accessible to friends.

Recent and upcoming activities have included coach trips to Blenheim Palace and Bletchley Park. Talks have covered subjects such as the life of Second World War Spitfire pilot Jackie Moggridge, the Newport Medieval Ship, and The Women Who Built Bristol – Vol 3.

The programme has additionally included holidays, with members currently taking part in a visit to Malta, and a fully booked trip scheduled to the Isle of Man in April next year.

Other events include an annual quiz, a skittles tournament, a summer lunch, a carol concert, and the annual meeting, providing members with opportunities for socialising, friendly competition, and participation in the Federation’s key activities.

This year’s meeting, held on Tuesday, September 23, at BAWA Conference Centre, Southmead, Bristol, included a programme of guest speakers following the official business.

The morning session featured Becky Barnes, a sustainable stylist and advocate for reducing the supply and purchase of new clothing. Her presentation highlighted the environmental impact of man-made fabrics, including plastics and synthetics, which do not decompose and can release microplastics into waterways when washed.

The second guest speaker was Ann Widdecombe, who discussed both her political career and her participation in Strictly Come Dancing. She shared anecdotes about her partnership with Anton du Beke on the television programme and her subsequent involvement in the Strictly live tour with Craig Revel Horwood. Widdecombe also spoke about her work as an author and offered copies of her books for sale during a signing session at the lunch break.

The afternoon session included presentations from two guest dignitaries, Helen Godwin, mayor of the West of England Combined Authority, and Henry Michallat, the Lord Mayor of Bristol. Both provided brief talks on their roles and responsibilities, acknowledged the invitation from the WI, and noted the organisation’s increasing profile within their respective offices.

The final speaker of the day was Jeryl Stone, chair of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes. Stone addressed the future of the WI, emphasising its ongoing relevance to current members and its appeal to women considering joining the organisation. She also highlighted the development of virtual WIs, which enable membership for women regardless of their personal circumstances.

For those interested in learning more about Women’s Institutes in your local area, or if you would like to explore the option of joining the Avon Federation of Women’s Institutes’ virtual WI group known as Skylarks, further information can be obtained by contacting the AFWI office directly on 01179 864782.

The office can provide guidance on membership, details of upcoming events and activities, and advice on how to get involved in both local and virtual WI initiatives.