Annual meeting

Joan Dawson, federation chairman (recently resigned) was in attendance. Julie Tritarelli (retiring chairman) was not well enough to attend, due to a recent hospital visit. Dianne Roberts presided in her place.

Last month's minutes were read and signed and apologies for absence at this meeting were accepted.

The previous week's visit to Tyndersfield was very enjoyable and members were reminded of forthcoming events, ie start of the computer course, visit to Sidmouth and the donkey sanctuary and the June coffee morning.

All relevant information was shown on the notice board. The Gwent Newsletter was then distributed and discussed.

After the tea break the AGM business commenced. A copy of the financial report was distributed to all present, fully discussed and agreed. Maureen Docherty, hon treasurer, was thanked for her work in this respect. Mary report for the past year and she also received thanks for an excellent report.

Joan Dawson then announced that Julie Tritarelli was standing down as president at the end of a four-year term of office. She said it would be hard to replace Julie, who had been an excellent and popular president and Caerleon WI had achieved much in the past four years.

A letter from Julie was read out, in which she thanked the committee for their enthusiasm and hard work during her presidency, and also thanked all the members who had supported the WI by their regular attendance and for taking part in the various activities and visits which had taken place.

She looked forward to continuing to support Caerleon WI. Everyone agreed they were sorry she was resigning, but very pleased that she would remain an active member of Caerleon WI.

A vote for the new president then took place and Dianne Roberts was unanimously selected. Dianne thanked members for their vote. She said she realised Julie would be a hard act to follow, but had decided to "be myself and be open to suggestions from members at all times".

A few changes to the committee were mentioned and the programme for the coming year was in the process of being printed and would be given out at the next meeting.

Ms Dawson complimented Caerleon WI on their achievements during the past year and also for the well-conducted AGM. She said that the WI was considered to be the biggest in numbers and the most influential group for women. Caerleon WI was part of this and she was sure they would continue to be so in the future. The meeting closed at 4.30pm.

Next month's meeting is on Monday, June 11, when the Rebel Stompers line dance team will be demonstrating their skills and it was hoped members would join in.

The competition, run by Betty Moseley, would be any article, picture etc which complimented their type of dancing.

It would be a good day to have a taster' of the WI and we also welcome anyone who would like to attend our coffee morning on Wednesday, June 6, at 10.30am. You are very welcome at either - or both - meetings. We meet in Caerleon town hall which is right opposite the bus stop. So you can leave your car at home and come on the bus. We look forward to meeting you. If you want any further information, tel: 01633 259136.