Following a very successful afternoon in September at the Llantilio WI Festival and lunch when new recruits and friends were welcomed and introduced to the WI movement, the members later enjoyed an exhilarating and breathtaking visit to the countries of Namibia and Botswana at their regular monthly September meeting thanks to the wonderful photos, videos and talk given by Sue Raynor one of our newer members writes Sheryl Westoby.

They were taken with her on her travels with her husband to experience the remote but beautiful aspects of these countries and he wonderful wildlife roaming free that lives there. These was no pre-arranged commercial tours, but just the two of them in a hired outback vehicle travelling independently through isolated areas of these beautiful countries having exciting and sometimes challenging experiences. They felt breathless with admiration for their adventurous spirit and wonderful experiences.

In October, memories were stirred by a talk from John Sheen about growing up in the 50s and 60s. Much laughter and merriment was had when items were revealed and most of them could relate to their use. Also interesting anecdotes were given about when he was growing up with his brother, who is the father of the actor Michael Sheen, and told them even as a boy his family were interested in theatre and performing.

On Friday 3rd November, four of their members attended the tree planting ceremony at Usk Arboretum in glorious sunshine to commemorate he Gwent Federation Centenary. Afterwards a very nice lunch was provided at Usk Memorial Hall, they heard a talk about the life of Alfred Russel Wallace who was born in Usk. He independently conceived the theory of evolution at the same time as harles Darwin’s theory of evolution work was published. He led a very active and interesting life travelling the world on scientific exploration.

The November meeting takes place at Llanvapley pavilion on Wednesday 8th at 7pm. This is an open WI meeting, men included, with a talk by Mike Dunsbee from Friends of Lower Wye . He will be doing a presentation on their work to improve the pollution in the River Wye and subsidiaries rivers. The members will be particularly interested in the research carried out recently on the River Trothy.