The ladies of Stowe by Chartley WI have had a very busy September and early October, with various meetings at the village hall and trips out and about. On Wednesday 7th October we hosted a very special group meeting, bringing together 34 of our own members and 14 ladies from Sandon WI, along with some very welcome guests, including Helen Mancey, Staffordshire Federation of WIs Chair and Adviser. After a formal meeting, they were delighted to welcome The Potty Plotters — Elaine Crick and Julia Slater, two enthusiastic allotment gardeners from Derby who combine their passion for growing with a wonderful sense of humour. The pair are also the voices behind The Potty Plotters Plotcast, where they share practical gardening advice, amusing stories and plenty of comedy from life on their allotment. They treated the ladies to a thoroughly entertaining hour filled with laughter, gardening tips and hilarious tales of their allotment adventures. They had everyone laughing! And, of course, no WI gathering would be complete without some delicious food. The evening was a tremendous success, filled with friendship, laughter, interesting conversation and that wonderful sense of togetherness that makes the WI so special. 

On Tuesday 13th October Nicola, from Staffordshire Women’s Aid, came and gave the members and guests a deeply moving and thought-provoking insight into the vital work they do to support women and children affected by domestic and sexual abuse. Nicola spoke about the heartbreaking struggles faced by so many women, many of whom carry both physical and emotional scars from their experiences. The ladies learned about the lifeline Staffordshire Women’s Aid provides through its helpline, emergency accommodation, practical advice, guidance and emotional support, helping women begin the difficult journey towards rebuilding their lives. They also run a food bank for women and children who have had to flee their homes, providing essential food and other necessities. The ladies of Stowe-by-Chartley WI were pleased to donate to the food bank, helping Staffordshire Women’s Aid to continue providing essential support to women and children in need. Staffordshire Women’s Aid has been chosen as Stowe-by-Chartley WI’s charity for 2026. They look forward to supporting this important organisation throughout the year. 

During the past month the ladies have been on trips including afternoon tea in Eccleshall, a ghost walk in Lichfield and of course the regular Stowe Strollers walks. 

The next meeting is Tuesday 10th November when it will be a craft evening.

Meetings are held in the Village Hall at 7-30pm on the second Tuesday of the month - new members and guests are always welcome..

Stowe WI also holds a monthly coffee morning at Stowe Village Hall on the 4th Thursday of the month. Everyone is welcome between 10-00am and midday.