Whitfield WI

15/06/2026

15/06/2026

Whitfield wombling walkers.

Today the Wombling Walkers set off on what was supposed to be a “lovely little practice walk” from Plenmellor to Twice Brewed along Hadrian’s Wall and back. According to Hayley, it was going to be a very sensible 10 miles. Sensible being the key word there.

Armed with layers, snacks and blind faith in Fiona’s phone directions, we headed off across the countryside. Fiona’s phone, however, clearly fancied an adventure of its own and took us on a few “bonus miles” via routes nobody had planned. Still, we didn’t complain too much, mainly because the alternative routes thankfully avoided cows, horses, sheep with attitude, or anything else that looked remotely bitey.

By the time we finally got back, our “10 mile stroll” had somehow become over 13 miles! We were tired, slightly achey, probably a bit muddier than when we started, but very proud of ourselves.

At this rate, the Alzheimer’s walk in August will feel like a quick trip to the shops… provided Fiona’s phone stays at home.

11/06/2026

Today we joined other WIs from across Northumberland for a lovely 5 mile countryside walk around Shotley Bridge. Yes, it rained… but not enough to dampen our spirits! Thankfully we all came prepared with appropriate clothing, at least three layers each, of course!

A huge thank you to Shotley Bridge WI for being such wonderful hosts, organising the walk so well and guiding us along the route. The scenery was beautiful, even in the drizzle, and the company made it even better.

After the walk we headed back to the hall for a lovely lunch and, most importantly, a fantastic selection of delicious cakes, very well deserved after five miles of walking!

Every mile is helping us prepare for our 13 mile walk in August in aid of Alzheimer’s, and today definitely felt like a great step forward in our training. Rain or shine, the WIs keep going!

09/06/2026

Whitfield WI were guests of Alston WI last night and what a fabulous evening it was. We were treated to a brilliant talk by Kevin Thornhill, “My Life in Theatre”, and honestly, I think we could all have listened to him for another few hours.

Kevin shared stories from his years dressing the stars and creating costumes for major productions including The King and I, Evita and Oklahoma. He also brought along some of the stunning dresses he had made… and of course, once those dresses came out, there was absolutely no chance we were just going to sit and admire them politely!

I somehow managed to squeeze myself into a replica of Diana’s wedding dress,a moment I may never fully recover from ,while Debbie completely stole the show in her fabulous gown. There may even have been a few future stage stars discovered in Alston last night.

Kevin was also involved in the design and making of Diana’s wedding dress and had some wonderfully amusing behind-the-scenes stories that had us all captivated.

As always, we received such a warm welcome from our wonderful friends at Alston WI. A superb evening full of laughter, glamour and great company.

16/05/2026

On 1st August 2026, seven of us Whitfield girls ,The Wombling Walkers will be taking on a 13-mile walk along the beautiful Norfolk coast to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society.

Like so many families, we all know someone who has been affected by dementia. It’s a cruel illness that changes lives, not only for those living with it, but for the people who love and care for them every day.

We’ll be battling sore feet, blisters and probably a fair bit of moaning by mile 10, but it’s nothing compared to the challenges faced by those living with dementia.

Please support us if you can. Every donation, no matter how small, helps provide support, care and hope for people affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Every penny really does count — and we’d be incredibly grateful for your support. ❤️

16/05/2026

Great night at Hexham Mart for the Moorland Fashion Show.

The place was packed, the bargains were flying off the rails and I’m fairly certain half of Hexham will now be roaming around in matching animal print tops. If you spot a leopard in the queue at Tesco this week… you’ll know exactly where they’ve been.

There was plenty of laughter, a few competitive elbows near the sale rack, and some absolute steals to be had.

Huge well done to our Julie for her organisational skills — she pulled off a fantastic night. I think she deserves a lie down and possibly a medal… preferably in animal print.