The Standing Orders were accepted without change, and then the Federation Treasurer, Mrs Glenice Wignall, gave a very clear and concise explanation of the yearly accounts, which were accepted unanimously.
The next speaker was from the Special Olympics Committee who, apart from urging everyone to at least attend an event in July even if unable to commit to a being a volunteer, explained the significance of the Special Olympics and how these games are different to the Paralympics which get so much more media coverage. Founded by Mrs Eunice Kennedy Shriver (a member of the famous Kennedy family) she stressed how important it is for Leicester to be honoured with these games this year and went on to illustrate how the games are of great benefit to the participants as well as their families. A truly motivating presentation.
Next came Taylors' Teas representative from Harrogate. Once again this year, Taylors will be sending a goody box to all WIs in the country.
Federation Vice-chairman, Mrs Ruth Green, reminded members of forthcoming events in the Federation, followed by an animated presentation of the Gifts and Stationery on sale in the entrance hall by Mrs Barbara Rogers, Mrs Glenice Wignall and Mrs Anne Allison.
As ever, lunch break seemed to pass to quickly but the Country Markets stall as well as Gifts and Stationery table both did keep very busy. Members then settled down to congratulate the various trophy and prizewinners, before the main speaker of the day was introduced. This was Mrs Sheila Dibnah who gave a vivid description of her all too short married life with the country's favourite raconteur and tv presenter, Fred Dibnah (they were only together for six years before he sadly passed away in 2004). It was a heartwarming and hilarious tale of a man who seemed to be every bit as eccentric in everyday life as he appeared on television; as Sheila said "what you saw what what you got with Fred". She gave unbelievable tales of their courtship when Fred's idea of a romantic Sunday afternoon out was to get Sheila climbing a old chimney with him!! A wonderful presenter in her own right, possessing a superb sense of humour and with her own stories to tell as well as those of her famous husband.
The afternoon finished off with the raffle, followed by the National Anthem, and everyone went home after a full and satisfying day spent with friends old and new.
ACM 2009 PICTURE GALLERY:
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