Stroud Evening

Stroud Evening WI was formed in 1983, a time of neon leggings, big shoulders and cassette tapes. Inaugural meetings took place in the Tin Hut, a rustic haven where debate and laughter as well as tea and cakes filled the hall.  Unfortunately the hall, originally a memorial to those who served in the First World War, became too dilapidated for meetings and Stroud Evening WI embarked on a quest for a new home, a place where they could continue to acquire new skills, nurture their talents and debate resolutions.  They found a new base in Bedales School but destiny had in mind another chapter and in 2011 they moved to Steep Village Hall where they spent eight happy years. The coronavirus pandemic in 2020 meant an end to face-to-face meetings but the members showed their resilience and collective strength by keeping their community together with Zoom meetings.  In August 2021 they re-convened in their spiritual home, the village of Stroud in the new Village Hall where they welcomed several new members from the village.

Diverse speakers on subjects such as the enigmatic world of Freemasonry to the rhythmic allure of Flamenco Dancing, and a visit to an Herbalist’s Garden kept members captivated. They debated and voted on resolutions as wide ranging as dental health matters, cleaner rivers and cervical screening. Members attended the NFWI Annual Meeting and the Hampshire Federation Council Meetings.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the King’s Coronation were celebrated in style with cakes and bubbly. A bench to celebrated King Charles III coronation was donated to Stroud Village Hall by members.

At the Petersfield Orchestra concerts Stroud Evening WI provides substantial afternoon teas for the orchestra and more liquid refreshments for the concertgoers in the evenings.  They also provide bacon butties, cakes and teas for local seasonal fairs, helping to raise money for various charities.