Their July meeting is usually spent journeying to distant shores (last year they went to Langland Bay) or cultural attractions (2024 found them at St Fagan’s). This year they decided to go to … Pont Kemys! To dinner at The Chainbridge Inn to be precise.

The majority of members were able to attend and enjoyed a delightful dinner on a hot summer’s evening. Lovely summer frocks were on display that night and a palpable happy mood. Everyone enjoyed a game orchestrated by Sheryl Westoby, designed to enable them to find out things about each other. This was because they have had several new members join our WI recently and she thought it would be a way of getting to know each other. Hidden depths and guilty secrets were revealed to Sheryl individually prior to the dinner and then they had to guess whose story belonged to whom. Great fun, as was her brain teaser quiz.

There was less enthusiasm for Sue’s ‘Virtual Coach Tour of the UK Quiz’. Apparently, some of it was too obscure- surely not! The LC WI Choir rehearsed in the welcome cool of St Teilo’s church. The new songs in the repertoire are quite challenging but the choir will “Keep Calm and Carry On”. Others met in Margaret’s kitchen to plan the entries to the Gwent Federation Show Day competitions on September 26th. The theme of the day is ‘Books’.‘.

There is a lot of talent in Llantilio WI and everyone is encouraged to give it a go and make something. Classes range from floral art and cookery to art, craft and photography. Four of the group sashayed and swayed down the catwalk at the Gwent Federation WI Sustainable Fashion Event at Ponthir village hall.

A talk by Becky Barnes, fashion stylist, followed by refreshments saw participants invited to model clothes that have been re-purposed or re-cycled and the outcome was truly stunning. One of their members (who was a model and a Bond girl in a Roger Moore film) revealed her penchant for finding beautiful outfits and accessories in charity shops. She named several from across the country and will happily tell you the answer if you ask her! Two members attended the county Literary Afternoon Tea in Usk. Author Rosie Oliver engaged in conversation, cake and science fiction revealing her journey as an author and the books she has published. Rosie judged and awarded the WI Competition Literary award which was entitled “Out of this World” to conclude the successful event.

Another member has engaged in the Walking Netball opportunities across the county enjoying a fun filled session of gentle exercise, fun and laughter with netballs and balloons! Support has also been given to the Abergavenny Community Centre which recently held an Afternoon Tea to raise funding for the running of their monthly Afternoon Tea Scheme. Members kindly came together to make numerous cakes and sponges for their event which raised valuable funds for their cause.

They welcome members of all ages. Contact Sue at [email protected] if you would like more information.