Let us entertain you… the ELF Committee
HELLO fellow WI members. I should like to introduce you to the Events, Leisure and Fundraising Committee, lovingly known as ELF.
My name is Marion Mitchell and I am the Chairman. Lynne Simpkins is Vice Chair and the members are Judith Broome, Sally Digby, Shirley Reed, Debbie Playle, Lesley Stedman, Sue Sargent, Jennie Hemal-Cooke, Margaret Lamb, Jackie Purrett and Pat Whiffen.
I know that many of you have attended one or two if not more of the events or leisure pursuits that the ELF team have organised over the years and I wish to personally thank you for your support.
This year a new committee member who lives in the Dorking and Reigate area has joined us and we were hoping to introduce events more accessible for WIs in that area but unfortunately the virus put a stop to that. However, new events for 2021 are being investigated.
Regular attendees of our events will be aware that we occasionally repeat some events and pursuits each year, purely due to their popularity and demand. However, we are endeavouring to include new events in between the more popular ones.
This year we had a great 2020 programme to offer, and it was thought by many as being the most exciting and educational that has been organised for some time. It included three Blue Badge London guided tours, two Croquet Taster Days, a Bridge Tea, a Mah Jong Refresher day with lunch, the Federation’s Supper Quiz, the ever popular annual Literary Lunch that was due to be held in a larger venue seating 140, a trip to the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, with afternoon tea at a Sussex WI, and as a finale, booking all 180 places at the Brick Lane Music Hall for Federation members
Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 outbreak in early March only the two London walks went ahead. All other events had to be cancelled — including Brick Lane.
There have been a few new introductions to the programme in the last few years – an Indoor Bowling Tater Day and a trip to the Hawk Conservancy, both of which had to be cancelled due to a lack of applicants.
I am immensely proud of my ELF committee who work tirelessly to bring you events that are both educational and for your enjoyment and entertainment. The team are encouraged to seek out and investigate any suggestions, recommendations, or requests that you send to us via the office.
This year a new committee member who lives in the Dorking and Reigate area has joined us and we were hoping to introduce events more accessible for WIs in that area but unfortunately the virus put a stop to that. However, new events for 2021 are being investigated.
We are looking to replicate the 2020 programme in 2021 so if you were ready to book your favourites this year please look out for them in next year’s programme. I encourage you to get your applications in early!
Thank you again for the support you have given the ELF team over the years. We look forward to seeing you soon so take care and keep safe.
Marion Mitchell, Chairman, Events, Leisure and Fundraising Committee
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