The Clifton Women's Institute

Our July meeting is, as always, a summer's evening walk followed by drinkies. This year Patsy Rose will lead a half-hour walk entitled "Clifton High Street and other little-known facts".  Afterwards we'll meet at the Port of Call for drinks (and perhaps food if you wish). August is chill-out month when we have a sociable home-grown meeting and this year we'll have the name badge competition (see recent post) followed by a team challenge, organised by Jane Thomas. For the badges, we'll be providing various craft bits and bobs so we can sit around companionably with a glass of wine (or a cup of tea), gossip and create. If you've already made your badge well then, you'll just have to gossip and drink. Sorry!! More details on both meetings later.

AHOY THERE! WE'RE GOING AFLOAT! On Tuesday 15 August Brislington WI are hosting a fantastic Group Social with a boat tour of the city waterfront - with full commentary - followed by a meal at The Stable near Cascade Steps. All Durdham Downs Group WI members are invited, but places are limited and it's strictly first come, first served so you're strongly advised to book SOON! You're welcome to attend either the boat tour or the meal, or both. You'll need to pay in advance for the boat (£10) and pay a deposit of £5 for the meal, which of course will come off your bill at The Stable. Full details are over on the DDG tab, including how to book and pay your deposit and a link to Brislington WI for queries.

Dr Carina Fearnley's talk was exceptional! Lots of members and guests turned up to hear Carina's fascinating account of natural disasters from the distant and the more recent past, and how so many factors come together to shape the advance warnings that are given by the authorities all over the world when something's about to blow. Who would have guessed that the traditional folklore in some cultures leads to a much better response to evacuation warnings, or that a city's survival can be jeopardised by a self-important leader who ignores all the advice of the experts? (Actually, scrub that last bit, that's happening right now ... ) Thanks to all the gardening members who brought herbs and flowers, seedlings and plants, gardening books and magazines which found eager buyers for the Clifton WI fundraising effort.