Cherry Barlow of New Forest Owl Studio, accompanied by Merlin, a little owl, and barn owl Eddi, opened the April meeting of Downton (Evening) WI. Cherry’s mission is to give people the opportunity to be close to owls to learn about their lives, to touch and hold them and to admire their beautiful plumage. Merlin was still too young and nervous to be held by strangers, but Eddi was confident and happily perched on the gloved hands of members who responded to Cherry’s invitation to hold him.

Edna Pike, President, then reminded members of forthcoming events.

The Centenary Celebration at Tidworth had been much enjoyed and our banner had been one of fifty paraded.

The May meeting began with details of invitations and outings and reports on recent events. Iris Lawes read her entry for the Centenary Poetry Competition. Keen photographers were invited to submit images of the ‘Hidden Corners of Wiltshire’ for the 2017 Wiltshire Federation calendar.

Basildon Park had been selected as the venue for our summer outing.

Members were encouraged to complete the online WI Centenary Survey.

Two members will host a coffee morning on 6 July.

Gill, Draper, Secretary, then introduced the Resolution to be put before the National AGM in June, ‘Failing to Care – Assessment of Need in Long-Term Care’. Following a discussion on funding and provision of both social care and health care members felt unable to either support or reject the resolution and recommended that our delegate vote using her discretion.

The Garden Meeting in June meeting will be held in a member’s garden when Christine Walker, County Adviser, will be present.

A warm welcome awaits new members and visitors to all our meetings.