Dunkerton WI is thriving with more members joining and bringing along their friends.

The sub-zero temperature and snow in December saw us having to cancel our meeting but not even the torrential rain deterred the members on the evening of Tuesday, 10th January as we gathered for the first time this year.

It seems that upset and controversy in the Royal Household in 2023 mirrors life eighty seven years ago as we heard excerpts from the Minutes of the Dunkerton WI Meeting held on 11th December 1936. It was clear that the WI members on that December evening were keen to get home to catch the Radio Broadcast from Windsor Castle in which King Edward VIII abdicated, announcing his choice of love for Wallis Simpson over Royal service.

History was also integral to the informative talk we had from local walker, author and historian, Larry Cunningham. Larry spoke about his interest in walking and unearthing the history around us from clues such as ruins, derelict buildings and features in the landscape. His extensive research into archives and maps has enabled him to shine a light on bygone years.

The present day remains of Holcombe Manor and the Duke of Buckingham’s Hunting Lodge only hint at their previous grandeur, shown to us in historical images researched by Larry. We heard also of the gatherings of thousands of local miners on the former ‘Clandown Common’, and of its later use as Midsomer Norton Golf Club in the early 1900s. We were introduced to Larry’s books on local circular walks and history, which were available for sale after his talk.

Going from strength to strength Dunkerton WI enjoys a variety of activities between the monthly meetings. These include competing in the Avon Federation 2023 Skittles and Darts Tournaments which begin this month with a Skittles match in The Stoke Inn, Chew Stoke. We are looking forward to getting out into the countryside together with our Walking Club and are eagerly anticipating the launch of a monthly Craft Club at the end of January.

As always, our evening meeting was rounded off with tea and coffee. This month our bakers totally spoiled us with a huge and delicious choice of Rock Buns, Iced Gingerbread, Tiffin, Flapjack, Cardamom and Marzipan Cake (who doesn’t love Nigella Lawson) and Chocolate Brownies.

Altogether our evening was a great start to our 2023 Programme which continues on 14th February with a talk from local business owner Helen Lippiatt of Milkhouse Beauty, Priston.