The recent October meeting of Elstead Afternoon W.I. commenced with the normal business, with President Anne Moon welcoming June Ryland as a new member, along with one visitor.
Then the news broke that Elstead Evening W.I. had to close due to waning numbers and rising costs, and wished to move their allegiance and properties to Elstead Afternoon W.I. if the meeting approved. Official approval was immediately given by a unanimous show of hands and duly recorded in the Minutes. A warm welcome was extended to all members wishing to make the transition.
Activity groups are coming to life again after the summer break, including plans for the Drama Group entertainment and the Christmas Lunch to be held on Friday 15^th December at 12.30 at a cost of £2.
The Surrey Federation house at Denmark Road is now sold and closed.
Mrs R. Hunter then gave her talk on New Zealand. She described Maori traditions and chants, the North Island which contains some trees over 2000 years old, geysers spouting at 20 minute intervals and thick mud pools, brilliant blue hot lakes and narrow boat trips on the rivers. The South Island in contrast, is covered by many Fjords where seals and flightless birds thrive, including the kiwi. Snow covered mountains abound. In New Zealand the North is warm and the South is much colder. Jill Stewart proposed a vote of thanks.
A delicious tea was provided by Diane Tulett, Joan Howard, Beryl Jeffery and Jean Barwick and the competition for a New Zealand artefact was won by Ursula Dunlop. The next meeting is the A.G.M., on 2^nd November, which includes an Art and Craft display and a Quiz.