Halstead W.I.
President Cheryl Woods
I joined the WI in 2013 when I moved to Halstead from Romford and didn’t know anyone, I Joined the committee 3 years ago and started arranging the trips and events. It’s a busy job but is rewarding, arranging outings for the members to enjoy. I also took on the job of Press Secretary, so getting our WI’s profile raised where I can. I was elected President in May 2019 so I am still finding my feet in my first year.
We are a large, mixed age Women's Institute with over 100 members, which was formed in 1965
Every month we have a guest speaker or activity to entertain and/or inform our members, except in December when our members enjoy their Christmas Meal at an external location. As part of our meeting we have a refreshment break where our members can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with a biscuit and an opportunity to catch up with friends and make new ones.
We arrange various trips which have included Theatre Trips, both local and London, Walks, Quiz Nights, Boat Trips, Barn Dances, New Year's Eve Parties and many, many more. Please see our events calendar for further details of up coming trips & events.
Vice President Vera Mitchell
I have lived in Halstead for 37 years and wouldn't want to live anywhere else. I owned two ladies shops in the Town for over 10 years and obviously got to know a lot of people. I joined Halstead W.I and soon became a Committee Member, I then became President and was for three years. I absolutely loved being the President and made some lifelong friends. I am now Vice President which I am also enjoying without all the responsibilities of a President.
Secretary Sue Webber
I joined the WI in 2013 as I was coming up for retirement and thought it would be nice to have another interest. In 2016 I went onto the Committee and then last year I took over as Secretary. I have been married to Steve for 40 years. I have 3 children, 5 grandchildren (although No. 6 grandchild is due any day now), and 1 great grandchild. I have lived in Halstead for 36 years and think it is a wonderful town. Please come and see me if you have any questions, or just come and say hello.
Treasurer Helen Woodman
I moved to Halstead in 2009 because of work, I was introduced to the WI by a lady I had taken my trousers to in order to have them shortened. I attended a meeting and everyone I met was so friendly and welcoming I became a member and have not looked back. Unfortunately I work shifts, which will mean me missing some meetings due to work commitments, on the other hand I will be able to attend some functions during the day. I am looking forward to being the Treasurer and getting to know as many of the members as possible. My interests include the Darts team, Warblers, baking cakes and having coffee or food with friends.
Archives Judith Abrams
I have just recently retired after spending eight years as a Trustee of Essex County and am really looking forward to serving on our committee. My main interest is our Archives and will be very happy to receive any items you would like to be preserved for the future. I am very keen to ensure that all members enjoy all events both in Essex and locally in Halstead.
Membership Secretary Jan Leever
I moved to Halstead 4 years ago, not knowing anyone I joined the WI to make friends. Yes, it was a great idea as I signed up for the committee a year ago and am having a great time working with the craft club. I am also arranging the WI trips and look forward to hearing your ideas for future trips.
Membership Secretary Jan Leever
After being a WI member many years ago with my best friend, I decided to return just a couple of years ago, and what better way to support the WI than being on the committee, sharing ideas and the enthusiasm the group has. My role will be Membership Secretary and I will be meeting and greeting visitors and new members. I ask all existing members that when I approach you with a new member, that you take on the challenge of welcoming them into our WI community.
Raffle Sue Morton
I am returning to Halstead WI committee after a 'career break' of about 5 years. Having been a WI Member for many years I hope to use my experience and knowledge to enhance and support Cheryl and the committee for the benefit of you all. My 'first job' is to run the New cash prize raffle.
Catering Krysia Wicks
I have lived in Halstead on and off for most of my working life of which has been as a hairdresser, mother and carer. I now work at Halstead Hall as Activities Coordinator. I have been a member of Halstead WI for the last 8 years and I have now become a member of the committee which I'm enjoying very much.
Trips & Events Fiona Escott
Hello Ladies, I have been a member of Halstead WI for about 8 years and a Committee Member for nearly all of them. I have lived in Halstead for 23 years but spent 10 years off and on in Spain, returning home permanently in 2010. It was my aim to get to know the people of Halstead and to join the WI which I’ve done and haven’t regretted a minute. If you’re new to our WI your best way to get to know us all is to come on our trips and events and enjoy our meetings and you won’t regret it either!
The 2020 Committee
The 2020 Committee
President
Cheryl Woods
Secretary:
Sue Webber
Treasurer:
Helen Woodman
Vice President:
Vera Mitchell
Trips & Events:
Linda Satti
Trips & Events
Fiona Escott
Membership Sec
Jan Leever
Raffle:
Sue Morton
Archives
Judith Abrams
Meeter & Greeter
Jan Leever
Catering
Krysia Wicks
Catering
Shirley Wiseman
See below for more details about our Committee.