February is a good month to join the WI. The WI is a ladies only organisation providing a sociable experience, some fun and a warm atmosphere to meet new friends and enjoy some varied activities and outings.

Penryn WI meets in the afternoon, 2pm on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Whilst there is always time for chat with members there is a mixture of interesting and amusing speakers and demonstrations arranged on a good variety of topics. A cup of tea with nice nibbles concludes the afternoon and departure is around 3.45pm.

Members have outings frequently during the month to see films, lunch at leisure or partake of a cream tea. Visits to local venues are popular (avoiding the busy tourist times). Penryn WI is a member of the Cornwall Federation of WIS along with some 170 more WIs in the county. Numerous activities, learning sessions and visits are arranged by the county to which members can join in.

The headquarters at Threemilestone is very busy – throngs of WI members gathering to learn and to enjoy craft, singing, science, computing and other subjects that have expert tutors.

Membership of two WIs is permitted (reduced annual subscription) and this can be a bonus. For example, Gylly Girls (Falmouth) WI meet in the evenings, whereas Penryn have afternoon meetings.

Penryn WI is visible in the community taking part in the Penryn Fair Day, a November Fayre, Christmas carols and music at St Gluvias and supporting the local Blind and Visually Impaired Group.

Every meeting and outing is fun, friendly and as a new member remarked “it is worth the effort to get there”. Friends or the solo lady coming to any meeting is sure of a very warm welcome.

A creative craft meeting will be held on February 19 - learning decoupage, whereas February 5 will be planning outings, having a book sale plus a small trading table and lots of friendly chat followed by tea.

Meetings start at 2pm; the venue for 2014 is yet to be confirmed. Please telephone president, Margaret William on 01326 373314 to get confirmation, and to enable her to prepare enough craft material for February 19 meeting.