New Barkby W.I.

President of New Barkby W.I. Shirley Franklin welcomed members to the institutes August meeting.
‘Jerusalem’ was sung followed by business matters. Member Alma Wright, also a W.I. adviser, went as New Barkby’s delegate to the National Federation’s Annual meeting in Liverpool and gave an account of her visit.
Speaker for the evening was Jo Golby from Barrow-upon-Soar, who spoke about the life and career of designer Laura Ashley who spent most of her early life in Wales. From bouncing on her grandmothers bed and using it like a trampoline, the quilt on the bed became torn to shreds. However, later in her career, Laura mounted an exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum on patchwork, and at another time secured the future of Manchester Costume Museum.
Members were allowed to look at sketches of Laura’s designs and some dresses from different collections, plus there were several books based on Laura’s life and of her husband Bernard Ashley.
Laura’s legacy still lives on, even though she passed away in 1985 following a fall at her home. She and Bernard had four children so the name carries on.
Most items including furnishings and pottery are now manufactured abroad. A fascinating story.
The vote of thanks was given by Angela Montague who also won the raffle prize.
The competition winner was Dawn Haynes for ‘A Homemade Craft Item’. This was a peacock crafted in beadwork, used as a Christmas tree decoration. The refreshments were provided by V. Cobb and J. Goulden.
The September meeting with speaker Angela Dewes ‘From Fleece to Finish’ will take place on Wednesday 7th at 7.30pm in Syston Community Centre.
Visitors are always welcome.