Campaigns old and new

​22nd May
Apparently on Countryfile on TV at the weekend a discussion was featured about the microfibres being washed into the water courses from organic fertilisers being spread on the fields. In our WI information on the resolution going up to the AGM in Liverpool about microfibres entering the ocean from our washing machines, there was also mention of the water run- off from the motorways which is contaminated by the shed from the wear and tear on tyres. The fall-out from fertilisers was a new source of danger. This followed the articles in the national press the previous week covering Prince Charles’ talk about the growing problem of plastics generally in the oceans. It is hopeful to learn that there is a substantial prize being offered to encourage research into finding solutions to the situation. Obviously, there is growing awareness of the subject of our Bucks resolution but it in no way takes away the premise of ours: ours has a different angle. We are asking for the Government and industry to research at source how this flow of microfibres can be stopped from our homes--- either change the textiles or the filters somewhere between our houses and the sea.
20th May
This weekend the NFWI was joining with other like-minded bodies to make representations to supermarkets expressing concern at the huge amounts of food waste after items are withdrawn from the shelves. WI members were asked to find out what was happening locally. Did your WI do anything about this? Did you see any coverage in the press? I took the WI manifesto with me on a group outing for another organisation and talked briefly about it. The response was very positive but I was only drawing the listeners’ attention to the WI mandate and hoped that what The WI was doing would feature in the media but I haven’t yet found any mention of it. Of course, it was Pippa Middleton’s wedding too.
18th May
The local WI supported the Town Council this afternoon by going on a litter pick. I think this was prompted by the coming visit of our twinning associates from France and the fact that the town is entering the Best Kept Village competition but whatever the motive it was a worthy activity and re-enforces our role in the local community.
10th May
The members of the discussion group were talking about Air Travel this evening. They described their experiences both good and bad, the advantages and disadvantages of improving ready access across the world. It also revealed how many families were scattered about the globe and how integrated we all are with other nationalities. Some of us will never enjoy flights because we are just terrified by the whole idea, just as others dread a sea crossing or going by tunnel. We shared information on the ways to get “bumped up” and how to find out which seats are to be avoided. It’s all on the Internet apparently.
8th May
The Happy Stitchers are still busy on their projects and progress is being made at different rates. We also find time to talk round and plan future activities in more detail than is often possible at the monthly meetings.