The annual open meeting of Reepham WI on Thursday 15 October drew a full house, with every seat taken at St Michael’s, Reepham. Members were invited to bring male guests, with drinks and canapés generously sponsored by Reepham Co‑op.

The highlight of the evening was a talk by award‑winning photographer Alan Dixon, fresh from his recent success in a Norfolk Wildlife Trust competition. His presentation, “Wildlife from a Reepham Doorstep”, offered a captivating insight into the patience, research and dedication behind photographing the area’s birds, mammals, insects and plants.

An earlier heating failure at the church threatened to derail the evening, but ADM Plumbing, Heating & Electrical stepped in with portable heaters, ensuring the event could go ahead comfortably.

Reepham WI is keen to welcome new women. Whether you’re new to the area, looking to meet people or simply curious about what the WI gets up to, you’re invited to come along and give it a try. Visit the group’s website or Facebook page for more details, or contact president Brenda Gostling on 07760 458967.

Photo: Reepham WI

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Our September meeting was another lively and enjoyable evening, filled with community spirit, inspiration, laughter and friendship.

We began with our president, Brenda Gostling, presenting a collection of garden hand tools to the Papillon Project. These were donated by WI members who have downsized or no longer required them — a wonderful example of the WI ethos of reuse, recycle and reduce.

The project’s trustees, Sarah Seery and Diane Davies, were delighted to receive the tools and thanked Reepham WI for the generous support. The donation will benefit new start-up projects at Wayland School, Hellesdon, and in Great Yarmouth, giving young people the opportunity to enjoy gardening, growing and learning outdoors.

We also received an invitation to visit the original Papillon Project at Reepham High School & College next year. We look forward to seeing the project first-hand and discovering how it has developed.

We then welcomed Candi Robertson of Candi’s Chutney, who gave us a fascinating and entertaining insight into running a small business. Candi spoke passionately about her love of flavours, as well as the challenges of sourcing British suppliers, navigating regulations and dealing with unexpected costs such as the glass tax.

Starting her business with just £50, Candi shared the highs and lows of her journey. Her humour, personality, enthusiasm and determination shone through, making for a fascinating, flavoursome and thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Fancy finding out what Reepham WI is all about? Why not come along and join us? Whether you’re new to the area, haven’t been to the WI for years or have simply wondered what we get up to, you’ll receive a warm welcome.

Bring a friend and come along for an evening of friendship, fun and interesting speakers – we’d love to meet you!

For more information, contact Brenda Gostling on 07760 458967 or email, or use the enquiry form on the Reepham WI website.

New women are always welcome – come along and give us a try.

Jillian Brown

Pictured above: Sarah Seery, Papillion Project trustee (left) and Brenda Gostling,  Reepham WI president. Photo: Reepham WI

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The August meeting of Reepham WI, held on the afternoon of Thursday 20 August, took place in the beautiful Bircham Centre gardens, where club president Brenda Gostling welcomed members to a relaxing afternoon tea in aid of Leeway, a Norfolk charity supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

Members were able to choose between a glass of Prosecco, Bucks Fizz or a refreshing soft drink, making the afternoon tea a special occasion for everyone.

The weather was kind to us to begin with; however, a sharp downpour meant we relocated into the Bircham Centre. As ever, the WI had a “Plan B”, and everyone was rather pleased to see the rain. It certainly didn’t dampen our spirits, and we continued to enjoy a lovely afternoon together.

Members were encouraged to bring along whatever they wished to eat, resulting in a wonderful array of delicious and colourful food. This also meant that allergies and intolerances could easily be accommodated, ensuring everyone could enjoy the afternoon together.

The interactive quiz provided plenty of laughter and friendly competition, eventually resulting in a tie-breaker. It was lovely to see everyone’s competitive edge coming through as members battled it out for the winning spot.

Reepham WI is a modern group of women who enjoy embracing traditional values while celebrating friendship, community and having fun together. Alongside our monthly meetings, members can also enjoy our active craft group, book club and walking group, all of which meet regularly – there really is something for everyone at Reepham WI.

We meet on the third Thursday of every month at St Michael’s, Reepham, and warmly welcome new women. Whether you’re new to the area or simply fancy coming along, we’d love to meet you.

For more information, check out our website or Facebook page. Alternatively, call Brenda Gostling on 07760 458957 or email.

Jillian Brown

Photos: Reepham WI

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Twenty-eight members and four visitors attended the July meeting of Reepham WI held at St Michael’s, Reepham, where they enjoyed a fascinating and informative presentation by Belinda Buxton and Sarah Keller from Norwich’s nightlife SOS Bus.

Founded in 2001, this remarkable service may never have existed had it not been for a series of tragic incidents on the River Wensum. Following two deaths in quick succession, the local community came together to establish the SOS Bus as a registered charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable people enjoying Norwich’s nightlife.

Belinda and Sarah were keen to dispel the common misconception that it is simply “the drunk bus”. In reality, only 6% of the incidents the team deal with are directly related to alcohol.

The volunteers help people of all ages in a wide range of situations, including medical emergencies, diabetic episodes, dehydration, minor injuries and practical problems such as providing flip-flops to those who are unable to walk safely. They also offer first aid, emotional support, assistance in contacting friends or family, and a safe place for anyone in need.

The bus operates at least one night each week, usually on a Friday or Saturday, from 9.30 pm until 3.30 am. Each shift is staffed by eight or nine volunteers, including trained paramedics and security personnel, whose shared aim is to keep people safe while reducing pressure on the emergency services.

Since its inception, the service has helped 1,629 people, preventing numerous NHS ambulance call-outs, reducing admissions to accident and emergency departments, and saving valuable police time.

WI members were surprised to learn that, despite its proven success and the invaluable support it provides, funding for the service has been drastically reduced. The charity relies entirely on donations to continue its vital work, making it increasingly difficult to maintain the service. Nevertheless, what shone through during the evening was the dedication, enthusiasm and genuine compassion of the volunteers.

Belinda and Sarah’s inspiring presentation gave everyone a real appreciation of the vital work carried out by the SOS Bus and the significant difference it continues to make to the safety and well-being of Norwich’s nighttime community.

Jillian Brown

Photo: SOS Bus Norwich

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Two members of Reepham WI have completed the East Anglian Air Ambulance’s Trek 24 fundraising challenge.

Joy Pickering and Rosie Humphrey took part in the event on Saturday 6 June, walking the route along the Norfolk coast despite periods of poor weather.

The annual challenge raises money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance, which relies heavily on public donations to support its operations across the region.

An online donation page for Joy and Rosie remains open for anyone wishing to support their fundraising effort.

Photo: East Anglian Air Ambulance

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Despite the gloomy weather and potential sombre subject matter, three visitors joined 30 members last week to hear a talk by Paul Fisher and Jason Davies of Ivan Fisher Funeral Directors. They explained how the business was established in 2005, originally based in Hethersett, later expanding with branches in Aylsham and Hingham.

In the intervening years, society’s attitude towards funerals has changed, with a significant decline in church services. Currently, around 75% of their business is cremations and 25% burials. The cost of an average funeral is now around £4,500.

“Direct” cremations, where no service is involved, are on the increase and account for around 20% of all cremations. There are differing opinions to this approach, prompting Paul to advise that before making any final decision, it is imperative to discuss one’s wishes with family to avoid any unforeseen upsetting reactions.

During an interactive Q&A session, several interesting facts came to light. Following cremations any “metal” pieces, such as replacement joints, etc., remain. Several crematoria recycle these and donate proceeds to charity; for example, St Faiths Crematorium gives to The Clare School, Norwich.

It is also a misapprehension that all donated organs will be utilised. Sadly, only around 40% are used for transplants or research; much depends on the age and cause of death of the donor. Where organs are given a “new life”, the funeral director makes discreet arrangements with the recipient entity, after which the funeral can then take place.

This was a thought-provoking meeting. All agreed there is a reluctance to discuss “death” in any great detail. But doing so openly with loved ones can avoid further distress at an already emotional time.

Reepham WI meets on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm in St Michael’s, Reepham. The next speaker on Thursday 19 March will be Francis Holmes, who will give a talk on “The Story of the Norwich Boot and Shoe Trade”.

Dee Taylor

Image: Pixabay

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Following an informative speaker programme last year, with such diverse talks on scams (and how to avoid them), the Six Wives of Henry VIII and a look behind the scenes at Peter Beale’s rose stand at the Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower shows, not to mention a tutorial on how to apply “drag” make-up, the 2026 Reepham WI schedule kicked off with a visit by Jo Daffin from Phoenix Birds of Prey Rescue.

Jo shared how Phoenix Rescue was set up in 2013 for the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured birds of prey. After appropriate care, administered by their team of falconers, birds are released back into the wild.

Species that have benefited from the charity’s work include kestrels, hen harriers, sparrowhawks and buzzards as well as tawny owls and barn owls. As an example Jo brought along several birds they have rescued, including a long-eared owl and a spectacled owl.

The talk was followed by a brief explanation of each of the resolutions put forward by the National Federation of Women’s Institutes, on which members were then asked to vote. These were:

• call for more accessible public toilet facilities;
• action on women’s homelessness;
• Nearer to Nature (green health);
• Love your Vulva (prevention of vulva cancer);
• Every Child Needs a Friend (befriending children in the care system).

Reepham WI meets on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm in St Michael’s, Reepham. The next talk, on Thursday 19 February, will be “Stories and Insights” by Ivan Fisher Funeral Directors.

Pictured above: Jo Daffin of Phoenix Birds of Prey Rescue. Photo: Jane Wheeler

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Having nurtured his passion for ceramics and glass, David was approached to curate a specialist auction. Thereafter he expanded his knowledge and interest in other objets d’art and sundry items coming through the sale rooms.

He explained that the business, founded by Geoffrey Key in 1953, started out by trading livestock, mainly poultry. In the 1960s the business expanded to include a weekly “furniture” sale, over time introducing art, jewellery, antiques and other niche auctions.

The impact of Covid has increased online sales significantly, with bidders from all over the world. Some bizarre items have gone under the hammer: a lock of Nelson’s hair, a pair of Churchill’s false teeth, a piece of royal wedding cake and Princess Diana’s bicycle to name just a few.

David explained how trends come and go. Certain genres of art, ornaments and furniture are now not so sought after, whereas gold and silver, as well as Chinese ceramics, are currently in high demand.

His advice is to buy what you will enjoy and never be tempted to bid more than you can afford. If selling, being able to provide provenance can greatly enhance the value of an item.

When our June speaker, Brian Chattern, first started working in “weights and measures”, the most serious offences were diluting milk and alcohol with water. He explained that these days scams are significantly more serious, targeting personal bank accounts, last year costing those affected £11 billion.

Various insidious ways are used to obtain details such as names, addresses, bank account numbers, debit/credit card details and passwords. The most common ruses are impersonating a family member or friend in urgent need of funds, your bank and HMRC. Calls from “Amazon” and texts from bogus courier companies have also featured. Romantic “liaisons” and selling services and products that do not exist, such as holidays and concert tickets, are also rife.

Brian encouraged all to be extremely wary and carry out checks before divulging any information, for instance making a call to the business’s official number, if possible from a different phone. Never ever share passwords.

Useful numbers if you think you have been scammed are:

• Report scam texts: 7726
• Forward scam emails to: report@phishing.gov.uk
• Action Fraud: 0300 123 2040
• Citizens Advice consumer helpline: 0808 223 1133
• Financial Conduct Authority: 0800 111 6768

Reepham WI meets on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30 pm in St Michael’s, Reepham. The next meeting will be held on Thursday 17 July, when a representative from Broadland District Council will give guidance on recycling.

Dee Taylor

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The founder, John Jarrold, opened a grocers and drapers business in Woodbridge in 1770. He kept copious notes, most pertinently rules on how to be a good tradesman that are still relevant today.

John Jarrold passed away in 1775 after which his wife, Elizabeth, ran the business until their son, John Jarrold II, was old enough to take over. This he did in 1794, expanding the business into farming and printing.

He purchased Grove Farm in Suffolk in the early 1800s, where he installed a printing press, while moving the retail business to 13 Cockley Lane (now London Street), Norwich, in 1823. With his four sons, John James, Samuel, William and Thomas, involved in the business, the focus was on selling books, publishing and printing.

Jarrolds moved to its present site on London Street in 1840, with a gradual expansion over adjacent buildings in the years since. Interestingly, at one time the caretaker lived above the store, with a rose garden and fish pond on the roof.

The family has continued to expand, with sons taking control of various interests, including publication of Norfolk News, the forerunner of Archant, the former publisher of Eastern Daily Press. Another notable publication in 1878 was Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty, an all-time children’s favourite.

On Samuel’s retirement, he handed over the business to his sons, William and Herbert, who further developed it into a substantial retail concern, with branches in Cromer, Sheringham and Lowestoft; Cambridge was to follow later.

The printing operation was enhanced by the Victorians, who favoured “Poppyland” as a holiday destination, with the requirement for guide books and postcards.

At the height of its success, this arm of the business, latterly based at St James Mill, Norwich, employed 1,500 people. The printing and publishing divisions were sold in 2005, although the site continues as the company’s headquarters.

As well as remaining one of the few independent department stores in the UK, Jarrolds has more recently ventured into property development and business services, with members of the family, now daughters as well as sons, still heavily involved in its management.

In 1965 the John Jarrold Trust was established, donating millions to various charities throughout Norfolk.

Reepham WI meetings are held at St Michael’s, Reepham, at 7.30 pm on the third Thursday of the month.

Dee Taylor

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At Helen’s first book signing in October 2022 her cousin gifted her a leather journal, with the inscriptions “Cromer” and “J.M.S.” on the cover. This book, dated 1883/4, contained sketches of daily life on Cromer beach. Given Helen’s earlier “detective” work, her quest for further information about the artist was ignited.

By coincidence, another copy of the sketch book came up for auction which Helen later procured. This edition was annotated by a previous owner with clues as to the surname of the artist and also of the folk featured in the sketches.

By painstaking research, Helen determined the paintings were done by Juliet Seebohm, the granddaughter of a German immigrant, of Quaker stock. Juliet, her parents and siblings spent summer holidays with their cousins, the Barclays – members of the “Cromer Set”. In those days, Cromer was a genteel “fishing port” frequented by wealthy families such as the aforementioned Barclays and the Gurneys, Hoares among others.

During the summer of 1883, when Juliet was in her 20s, she spent time capturing, through her exquisite drawings, the activities of working folk and visitors alike.

Helen’s book, Fishermen, Bathers and Beach Folk, contains comprehensive historic detail. The most fascinating anecdotes were about “Old Billy”, a well-known local crab fisherman who, despite having “clubfoot” and not being able to swim, up to his 80s gave swimming lessons to youngsters, as well as goat and donkey rides on the beach.

Another standout was Lucy Miller, an entrepreneurial lady, who owned a number of bathing machines. Women, wearing cumbersome crinolines, were relieved on hot summer days to rent a bathing machine in which they changed into hired (wool!) bathing costumes, before the contraption was wheeled out into the sea for a refreshing dip.

Other fascinating characters touched on in the book are Professor Vinogradoff, an academic, the sailor Mayes Brothers and fisherman Gilbert “Leather” Rook, as well as giving an insight into Victorian life in what is still a popular seaside town.

Reepham WI’s next meeting will be held at St Michael’s, Reepham at 7.30 pm on Thursday 10 April – a week earlier than usual – with a talk by Peter Goodrum on 250 years of Jarrolds.

Dee Taylor

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