WHITLEY WI

The month of February is the border between winter and spring.
This proved so on Whitley WI’s February walk  along the Whitegate Way, from Whitegate Station to the Catsclough crossing. A flat walk lasting about an hour each way.

This route follows a former railway line which closed in 1996. Salt had been transported along this track from the nearby banks of the River Weaver and taken to Manchester and the surrounding areas.

It was a chilly, and very windy morning with sunny blue skies as our ladies set off. We were in the tale-end of Storm Ceira which had cause record winds in the previous days and nights and were mindful of the dangers when we came across a fallen tree. This did not deter us admiring the spectacular views across the fields. Spring flowers were coming into bloom and open embankments offered spectacular views across the fields.

Not only did we find the fallen tree and flowers but also a male walker who jumped in on our photo shoot!

Retracing our steps the route back had the wind against us as well as being bombarded with hailstones. A rapid retreat was made for the warmth and delicious lunch at the Plough Inn.

Hardy Memories and Happy Members. Thanks Ann from all your fellow walkers.

Greatdays are a travel company in Altrincham and following a most enjoyable afternoon at Gorton Monastery last year we decided to try another of their events. Last year it was an old time music hall afternoon , this year time it was a Mamma Mia evening. Before the entertainment began we were served with a 3 course meal and then the music began. Old time favourites soon got us all singing. A few of ladies were brave enough to dress as ABBA characters and then we had to start the dancing for the second half of the show. Whitley did us proud and as we danced the rest of the night away.

On Friday 17th January 2020 a party of 30 boarded a coach at Whitley Village Hall to take our annual trip to theatre Clwyd.  We include husbands, family friends on this event and it was good to have members of Dutton WI join us again this year too.

Jack and the beanstalk was this year’s show and Dame Tegwen Trott was played by Phillip Harris.  His 13th performance at the theatre.  His costumes were amazing, and he changed on numerous occasions into dresses that were described as ‘bonkers’ by the local press.

The cast of nine people were very talented; they could sing and play multiple instruments.  The slap stick humour, sparkling set and puppets provided a evening of fun. We all left the theatre with smiley faces.

Next year’s panto is Puss in Boots and tickets are already on sale so watch this space.

Chris

“January brings the snow….makes our feet and fingers glow.”
Oh no it doesnt!….Well not today thankfully.

Marbury Park and the surrounding area was the place to be, for twelve of Whitley WI’s hardy walkers. The ground was muddy, so maybe by the end we could laugh about being “The Dirty Dozen”.

Expertly led by Betty, whose local knowledge was essential to lead us through woods, past ponds, over bridges, along the canal, up and down steep steps, across parkland, overlooking industrial chemical plants, as well as viewing wildlife through two bird hides.

Local Cheshire has so many hidden gems to offer.

Betty knew where we were, it was a good job because, being Whitley WI we were too busy chattering and enjoying all that this winter walk had to offer to actually know where we were.

Back at the car park, we compared notes,….these were the pedometers on our mobile phones (Whitley members like their technology)… Around 13,000 steps at a distance of 5.5 miles seemed to be the concerted agreement.

So warm and happy, twelve (not too dirty) members returned home, for a well earned lunch, a sit down and a mug of refreshing hot tea. (Well I did!)

Thank You Betty, a really enjoyable walk.

Newsflash: The Craft group programme for Q1 2020 has been announced.

Our next meeting is on the 15th January, when we shall be working on our own projects and talking about our programme for the year.

The February meeting on the 19th Annette will be talking about her life with cross stitching from 5 years old at school on Binca fabric to the present day.

March meeting on the 18th, Jackie is going to give us our our much wanted lesson on felting. Materials will be supplied.

Regards Annette