CHERITON Fitzpaine Women’s Institute has had a very busy time lately. Having taken part in the “Mentalympics” Quiz, held in the Parish Hall, they then went on to celebrate their 80th Birthday.

This took the form of a Special Tea, to which Devon Federation representatives, former members and friends were invited.

They were welcomed by President, Thelma Keeble, before Mary Nunn gave a short talk about her experiences with and in the WI.

She reported on some of the activities since 1938, which of course, included the War years. Our WI ladies, ever practical, had concentrated on keeping poultry, and producing eggs for the R. D. and E. Hospital in Exeter.

Talks were mainly of an instructional nature, such as how to cook economically, without imported foods, and how to adapt mens’ shirts into children’s dresses.

The Ministry of Information provided motivational and instructional films, which were shown in the then Parish Hall (bring your own heating oil and stoves!), and villagers were invited to watch before enjoying refreshments at one penny an item.

A delicious tea was provided by Hilary Partridge, and old photos and scrapbooks were on display.

Having barely recovered from this event, the Committee organised a float to be entered in the Village Carnival, depicting the Suffragette movement.

The Trailer was kindly provided by Simon Nuthall, Tree Surgeon, and attached to his pick-up truck. We are very grateful to him for his help. We came third in our class.

Our next monthly meeting will be on Wednesday, August 15, when Jane Williams will be talking about “Hats”. Members are asked to take along their geranium plants grown from plugs previously provided, to compete for the “June and Ena Cup”.

Mary Nunn