Deacon Debbie Marsh conducted the service and the members and their friends and family were in good voice singing a variety of traditional carols accompanied by David Robinson on the organ. The theme of the service was ‘Joy’ and included two short humorous scenes, “Mary and the Angel”, performed by Penny Hazeldine and Valerie Wonnacott of Marhamchurch WI and the “Three Gossips”, spreading the Christmas news performed by Carol Sparham, Heather Stephenson and Eileen Harris from Bude WI.
Cynthia May from Bude WI read the Pam Ayers poem, “Goodwill to Men — Give Us Your Money”.
The service concluded with a rousing rendition of “Oh Come All Ye Faithful”, after which everyone enjoyed an afternoon tea. Instead of a money collection the congregation were requested to bring a small treat. The collection of tasty delights and Christmas items filled five hamper boxes which are being distributed to the local hospital and residential homes as a thank you to the staff who have worked so hard during the COVID epidemic.
Bude WI held their December meeting at the Bude Methodist Church on Tuesday, December 14. To ensure the meeting was as COVID-proof as possible, whilst the catering secretaries Julie Grice and Gill Daniels, arranged the refreshments in the church and the entertainers set up, the president welcomed 52 members in the church hall. The membership were requested to wear masks and the group did not sing “Jerusalem”.
The president then paid tribute to the long standing member, Irene Wildman, whose death has recently been announced. Irene had been looking forward to celebrating her 50th year with the Bude and Stratton WI’s in 2022, but this was not to be. Condolences were given to the Bob, David and the whole Wildman family. The group held a minutes silence.
Details of recently held special events, including a lunch at Trencreek were given and information on many upcoming events, including a lunch at the Widemouth Manor, an Indian Day of Colour and a trip to the English Spirit company, a Launceston based distillery. The group then moved to the main church were they were entertained by Base Line Singers led by Andrew Pitt who were accompanied on the piano by Hilary Truss Daniel and her musical ensemble.
The raffle was very well supported and raised £153.20 which will be donated to Bude First Responders who are Bude WI’s charity of the year,
The evening concluded with the president wishing everyone a very happy Christmas.
The January meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 11, when the speaker will be local lady, Clair Roberts talking about how housewives coped with rationing during and after WWI. As usual visitors are welcome.