It has been a bittersweet year for Hendre W I. Falling numbers and a reluctance among members to take on any of the necessary roles required to run the Institute meant that we faced closure.

We have nonetheless had a very good year which included a trip to the Royal Mint and a party to celebrate our 80th birthday. As the year has gone on and we faced the prospect of no more meetings many members began to realise what we would be missing. We discovered how much we valued the friendship and support that belonging to our Institute gave us. In these days where loneliness and isolation are an increasing problem we know how fortunate we are.

A few new members and a renewed sense of enthusiasm to keep our Institute alive has resulted in the production of an interesting and fun programme for next year.

We are a mixed lot!! A few worthy women, a couple of ne’er do wells but in the main a great bunch of women who don’t take themselves too seriously. If you would like to share in our renewed optimism and possibly make some new friends please come along you would be made very welcome.

We normally meet at Rockfield Hall on 2nd Tuesday of every month at 7.15. Our January meeting is our annual skittles match at the Royal Oak at 7pm. If you would like to come contact our secretary Jean on 01600713778 who would be happy to have a chat with you.

Linda Davies (Monmouth)