Shiskine SWI meeting
More than 30 members turned out in foul weather for the first meeting of Shiskine SWI where the speaker was Lucy Urquhart-Dixon who also gave a demonstration on scone making.
Lucy thought it might have been professional suicide to demonstrate scone making to seasoned rural ladies but as it turned out, they all learned some new and useful tips. They were also lucky enough to enjoy the finished product; deliciously light scones with home-made preserves and fresh cream.
While giving the demonstration, Lucy talked about her teaching role and was particularly keen to promote the value of the hospitality course that is offered to students at Arran High School. She felt that the qualifications available and skills gained in this area are often undervalued, a sentiment that many of the members concurred with.
It was generally agreed that the expertise acquired on these courses are important in today’s economic climate and these skills are particularly relevant on Arran and in Scotland in general as the tourist industry is a growing part of the local and national economy.
Lucy then shared with the group some photographs of the students work which left members suitably impressed.
As usual, a lovely supper was enjoyed before the main business of the meeting took place.
Members were asked to suggest ideas for the annual show and lots of imaginative an creative ideas were put forward to be considered by the show committee who will be meeting on Thursday October 26, to set the schedule for next year’s Handcraft Show.
The competition, a decorated cupcake, was won by Marilyn Woods. The exhibition, a cake plate, was won by Julie Wilkinson, and the raffle was won by Evelyn Hamilton.
Julie Wilkinson was then presented with the Ferguson Plate, being the member who had gained most points during the winter season combined with the points gained in the annual show.
The next meeting of the Shiskine SWI will be on Wednesday November 1, in Shiskine Hall at 7.30pm, when the speaker will be Fiona Laing and the topic Heartstart.
Those wanting to know how to use one of the many defibrillators on Arran, or looking to brush up on rusty skills, can join in.
New members and visitors are always most welcome.