St Matthew’s Ladies Group

The Group has been in existence for over 50 years, starting off as St Matthew’s Young Wives. The name was changed in the mid-Seventies as members got older and didn’t want to give up their get-togethers. Current membership is around 30, attracting new members over the years. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of the month from September to June in the Parish Centre, gathering from 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start.

Meetings begin with announcements, followed by a guest speaker who entertains for approximately one hour. Speakers are usually local people who have an interesting hobby or talent they wish to share or even a personal story to tell. Following the speaker there are refreshments and time for a chat. The meetings close around 10.00pm.

Each year a local charity is nominated and some of the meetings are dedicated to fundraising. These take the form of Quiz nights, an American Supper and Beetle Drive, and in the Autumn a Sausage and Mash evening with Bingo. There is also a Christmas Auction which significantly boosts the fundraising efforts. This evening is great fun and includes mulled wine and mince pies.

In addition to the meetings at the Centre the committee organizes a Christmas meal at a local restaurant and a Summer outing. A committee runs the group and organizes events and the AGM is held in September. Meetings are very informal and friendly and new members are always welcomed so please come and join in. There is no membership fee, just £2.00 on the night to cover costs and this includes a raffle ticket and refreshments.

Around 30 ladies came to the 50th Anniversary American Supper in 2013. Entertainment was provided by ‘Our Flossie’ Song and Dance Show and there was a short speech given by Edna Wright, one of the founder members and still at regular. Chairman Avril Stephen made two celebration cakes and there was also a raffle and a tombola.

Please find below a selection of photos taken at the 50th Anniversary American Supper in 2013.