PONTHIR WI: Now, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Can similar guile be applied to a woman’s? Just hold that thought! 

All organisations-big, small, local, global have annual general meetings. 
WI is no different and to be brutally frank Ponthir AGM’s do not attract the highest attendance-in fact, the turn out can be disappointingly low. 
Well, this year we smashed it - 80% attendance! 

The AGM proceeded with precision and business was covered both briskly and efficiently as ever. 

The members voted to support both resolutions- alleviating loneliness within communities and reducing microplastic fibres in our oceans- these motions will now go to further debate at the National Conference in Liverpool in June. 

Jean Stanbury, the President, delivered her report highlighting the year’s events and Vicky Evans, Treasurer, presented the audited accounts. Jean was also returned unopposed for a further 12 months in office. 
Five lucky ladies-Carol, Sharon, Shirley, Vicky and Viv were awarded denman bursaries and the biscuit challenge was snapped up by yours truly with the most amazing anzac biscuits!

Now, rewind to my opening paragraph-that dangling carrot came in the shape of hearty portions of fish and chips for everyone of us, ordered from and delivered by Page’s, Cwmbran. 

Absolutely delicious - so, note to self and any other committees out there a fish and chips can certainly draw a crowd to an AGM. 

To mix my metaphors, the proof of the pudding was certainly in the eating! Pass the vinegar please !

(Margaret Barrell)