Shincliffe WI: THE institute celebrated the opening of a new path following the cutting of the ribbon by Zoe and Natalie, daughters of Trevor Cartner.

Mr Cartner and his firm Helios plc was a major sponsor for this huge effort to improve the access to the WI hut for members and all the other groups using it.

As well as grants from the Lottery Fund, the parish and county councils, money was raised from various activities by members and other local groups to fund this project. The contract for the design and construction of the path and steps was let to the local firm Brambledown Landscapes.

The WI hut is available for hire by local groups and individuals from the community and the new access will be of great benefit to all.

Belmont WI

THE December meeting opened with the president, Marjorie Oates, welcoming members and visitors and the return from hospital of Margaret Macdonald and Margaret Penna.

After the business, members were served mince pies. The Sherburn Hill Salvation Army Band put members in the Christmas mood by playing carols with Christmas readings. Members also joined in, and Ella Curry gave the vote of thanks.

The competition, a Christmas Candle, was won by Val Quarton. The annual competition winners were Val Quarton, who was awarded the cup, and in joint second place were Josie Beddison and Jean Ray. After wishing members a Happy Christmas and Healthy New Year everyone received a Christmas present on leaving.

The next meeting is on January 10 when the speaker will be Joan Lister.

Gilesgate Evening TG

THE guild held its meeting on December 6. The chairman Jennie O'Hare welcomed everyone. The minutes were read, agreed and signed. The financial report was read.

The Christmas dinner at Harperley Prisoner of War Camp was discussed again to finalise pick up times etc.

The meeting on January 3 will be a party night including a fish and chip supper. An extra night on Monday, January 10, will be a broth and bun and beetle drive evening. Refreshments of tea, coffee, mince pies and sherry and chocolates were served to everyone.

Two members Nancy Urwin and Phyllis Ovington did alternate Christmas arrangements, which were superb. Mrs. O'Hare gave the vote of thanks and presented them both with a thank you gift. The arrangements were then raffled. The winners were Elizabeth Allen, Jennie O'Hare, Torfreda Swain, Mabel Henderson, Evelyn Mobbs, Judith Stephenson, Joyce Appleby, Betty. Collins and Sandra Mitchelson.

The competition, a decorative plate, was won by Jean Tilly.

Newton Hall WI

THE president Dorothy Hodgson welcomed everyone to the Christmas party. Gwen Scott read last month's minutes. A jolly festive evening was had by all along with the usual delicious spread of food. The door prize was won by Pat Windsor and there were nine lucky winners of raffle prizes.

The entertainment for the New Year meeting on January 5 will be the talented Beltones singing group. Any ladies wishing to hear this group are most welcome at the usual venue, Newton Hall Community Centre, at 7.30pm.