Forty two members (including two new members) and five visitors – three from the
newly formed Eastergate WI – came to the February meeting of Bognor Regis WI.
Many of the attendees were wearing green or sporting a green heart to ‘Show the
Love’ in fighting climate change and during the evening each member was invited to
pledge one action, however small, that would make a difference; these ranged from
buying an electric car to using bar soap and a range of behaviours in between.
Additionally, members had brought a huge number of items of pet food as requested
by the local food bank and bottle tops for Tangmere Dementia Hub, both charities
that will be supported by BRWI during 2019.

After a warm welcome from President Dinah Barrand, Debbie introduced
MusicSmart. Hilary and Paula from MusicSmart are passionate about introducing
more people to the joys of music in general and singing in particular and, amongst
other initiatives, run five community choirs and run ‘Singing Saturdays’ themed
workshops. Having outlined the physical and emotional benefits of singing, it was
time for BRWI to be put through their paces. Starting with a simple melody, the group
progressed to a Tina Turner number (with body percussion) and then the theme from
‘The Greatest Showman’. We were simply amazed at the sounds such untrained
voices could produce; it was great fun and many members were inspired to enquire
about joining the choirs. Before the warm thanks from Debbie, Hilary and Paula
drew the winning MusicSmart raffle and to her delight Jack won two places on one of
the Singing Saturday workshops.

After refreshments and the opportunity to catch up with friends and sign up for one of
the many activities on offer in the coming months, Dinah brought the meeting back to
order and ran through the business of the meeting. Members were reminded about
the need to register earlier for the WI Camp in Kent as places are limited and to buy
tickets for the South Rife meeting on 13th March – another musical encounter but this
time with a ukulele band. The meeting was also updated on the results of the
Resolution Vote with ‘Stop the Decline in Village Bus Services’ garnering the most
votes. This decision will be sent up to NFWI. Members were also asked to think
about donating cakes and preserves for the BRWI/Aldwick Revival stall at the
Hotham Park Country Fair to be held in August.

After the raffle, Hilary and Paula selected the competition (My Happy Song) winners:
first was Anne Winter with ‘Pretty Woman’, second was Annie Smith with ‘Vincent’
and Chris Hunter was third with ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’.

It was a really enjoyable evening brought to an end when Dinah, having reminded
members that next month’s meeting will be held at the Jubilee Hall in North Bersted,
wished all members and visitors a safe journey home.

To read the full meeting record click on Record of February 19 meeting

Words:  Gina Fitch-Roy

Photo & meeting record:  Katie Lyne