by John Prince
A women’s group that has brought friendship, laughter and companionship to generations of local residents has celebrated its 60th anniversary – while helping to raise money for repairs to a village church roof.
St Mary’s Wives Group, associated with St Mary’s Church in Swine, marked 60 years since its first gathering, with a special celebration at the Railway Inn in New Ellerby.
The group now holds its regular meetings at St James’ Church in Old Ellerby, where members continue to enjoy friendship, guest speakers and fundraising activities.
Group leader Su Yu, who made a speech on the evening, said: “Tonight we’re celebrating 60 years of getting together as a group.
“It started on October 27, 1966, when a group of ladies decided to get together in somebody’s house. It all started from there and has gone on for all those years until now.”
The group’s history actually stretches back to 1963, when it began as a Mothers’ Union group, before becoming known as Young Wives and eventually the Wives Group.
A look through records from 1966 reveals just how much times have changed. Tea cost sixpence, as did raffle tickets, and the annual general meeting was accompanied by a fish and chip supper.
Members were encouraged to spend Lent mending clothes and making items for the bazaar, including knitted poodle bottle covers, homemade sweets, embroidered tray cloths and decorations made from recycled Christmas cards.
Activities included Avon demonstrations, a talk on family planning and visits to Clough Road Fire Station and the Marriage Guidance Council.
The group’s social activities have continued over the decades, including wreath-making workshops and visits from guest speakers. One memorable meeting in 2012 featured a hedgehog rescue centre, which brought along baby hedgehogs and demonstrated how they were hand-fed.
But alongside the social gatherings, fundraising has remained an important part of the group’s work.
Su (above right, with social secretary Deidre Alcock) said: “It’s a social group, but we raise money every year for a different charity. This year, we’re raising money for Huntington’s Disease.
“But the raffle tonight is for the St James’ Church roof because it’s got a hole in it.”
Su said the gatherings were particularly valuable for women who might otherwise have limited opportunities to socialise.
“A lot of the ladies who join us are widows or live alone,” she said. “It’s a good way of meeting people and socialising.
“Sometimes we have a speaker. We just generally have a good natter and a cup of tea and some cake. And a raffle.”
On the night, £167 was raised from the raffle. Entertainment was provided by Withernsea-based singer Spitfire Sam.
The group meets at St James’ Church, Old Ellerby, at 1.30pm on the last Wednesday of the month, with new members always welcome.
