Members of a Harrogate WI have helped to unveil a commemorative display in central Harrogate as the organisation marks its 100th anniversary.
Members of Spa Sweethearts WI, which has itself just passed the 100 members mark as part of its 100 Years, 100 Members campaign, were thrilled to see the work done by Harrogate Borough Council’s Parks and Gardens team to celebrate the centenary.
The bed features the WI’s logo laid out in flowers. It will be on display on Montpellier Hill throughout the summer – including when the national WI Centennial Fair comes to Harrogate International Centre from September 3 to 6.
Spa Sweethearts WI committee member Sarah Clifton said:
The centenary flower bed is absolutely stunning and we’re so honoured that Harrogate Council has joined in with our celebrations.
The 100th year is a chance to show people that the modern WI is not necessarily what they think it is. We have active craft and book clubs, we hold monthly board games and cocktail nights, and our programme features diverse topics including mindfulness, pasta-making, power tools, a treasure hunt and a gin workshop!
The centenary year has also featured lots of unusual things, including visiting Buckingham Palace for a garden party and welcoming Her Majesty the Queen to our AGM at the Royal Albert Hall. We’re looking forward to welcoming members from around the country to Harrogate in September for the Centennial Fair, and this will be a fantastic floral display for them to see while they’re here.
Councillor Michael Harrison, Harrogate Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment said:
We are so pleased to be able to mark the WI’s centenary with a display right in the heart of Harrogate.
There are hundreds of WI members in our area and it has always been an important organisation for local people. Last summer, WI members across North Yorkshire helped to knit more than 1,000 mini jerseys for our Tour de Bunting project, so it’s great for us to be able to do something to help them celebrate this year.
