Bangor and District Soroptimists latest meeting was devoted to Programme Action. Members worked together to make up hampers of Christmas treats, bags filled with essential and luxury toiletries, presents of hats, scarves, gloves and chocolate for a number of local refuges and hostels. In addition, they supported the Stop the Violence against women and children across the world campaign reflected also in the orange attire of some members on the night.

A Winter Fair was held at Penrhyn Hall in Bangor on 2nd December whilst the Bangor Christmas Cracker Community event was taking place in the city.. Funds were raised for local charities Samaritans and GISDA – a charity for local young homeless. There were a variety of stalls as well as refreshments and mince pies these included chocolate tombola, beauty booty and homemade cakes and jams. In addition, books, toys and bric a brac which were unsold on the day were donated to the North Wales Society for the Blind shop in Bangor to raise further funds. 

It is with great sadness that S.I. Bangor & District announce the death, on 29 October, of their longest serving member – “Our Vera”. Vera Goodwin was born in Bangor on 14 January 1918 and invited to join S.I. Bangor in April 1962. She was a very proud and committed Soroptimist and served on all committees in turn as well as taking on the role of Treasurer for more than fifteen years. She was well-known throughout the Region with her happy, outgoing personality and her ‘hats’ at luncheons. She served in the WRAF in World War Two and regaled us all with her tales and experiences. She was a singer and also a prolific knitter, a craft she maintained until very shortly before her death. We will miss Vera greatly. Sadly she had been looking forward very much to celebrating her 100th birthday with us.

The speaker for the evening was James Griffiths, former organist at Bangor Cathedral and International music examiner, who was born and brought up in Orme Road. He spoke first about composer John Richards, whose Bardic name was “Isalaw” and who was born in The King’s Head public house, which is now the fish and chip shop on the corner of Ambrose Street and where a plaque in his memory can still be seen above the door. He spoke of a visit to Bangor by Mendelssohn and of holidays he and his wife have enjoyed in a village just outside Vienna, which was popular with a number of composers. His talk was illustrated with various musical extracts.

Members Sian Kent, Lin Macdonald, Diane Davies, Club President Gwen Ellis Jones and President-elect Andy Hawkins attended the meeting at Cambrian College, Connays Quay. Hope for Justice inspirational speaker held Soroptimists attention as he outlined his journey and the difference this amazing organisation was making in rescuing people from trafficking and slavery in a systematic approach working with the establishment. Through discussion he offered help at local level with some clubs suggestions and was extremely well received. Soroptimists from across the Region gained valuable insight into a variety of  IT communication tools such as Facebook, Sigbi website and the advantages of Skype. Following a networking lunch members were also able to peruse table top stalls set up by various clubs for information or start Christmas shopping with the hand made goods brought along to raise club funds. The afternoon ended with the change of insignia

Michael Lambert was the guest speaker on 7th November. He shared knowledge of his great Uncle’s bravery during the first world war and a gave a personal perspective on the Battle of Passchendaele which had taken place 100 years ago. Mr Lambert explained how the caring work of Toc H had emerged from the devastation of war and the vision of Chaplain Tubby Clayton to help those affected.

Bangor and District Soroptimists usually include plans in their event arrangements to ensure any excess food is taken to their local homeless shelter. Members extended this opportunity when they attended the recent Cardiff Conference by contacting the Salvation Army. After help from storm troopers and friendly bus drivers, they delivered excess lunch packs from the Conference to a local distribution centre in Cardiff which was well received.    

Members Sian Kent, Alecs Peate-Evans, Joan Thomas, Eirwen Jones, Mair Jones, Marian Jones, Diane Davies, President Gwen Ellis Jones and President Elect Andy Hawkins attended the Conference based in the Millennium Centre, Cardiff from 26-28th October. They were delighted by the company of over 1000 fellow Soroptimists from Britain and across the world. Key note speakers included Dame Kathryn Grainger – Olympic Champion, Mandy Hickson – Female Tornado Pilot and Rebecca Lewin – Director at Plan International whom were all very well received for their good humour and inspirational tales of their life stories which included some huge challenges to overcome (and succeed!) . Members welcomed the opportunity to learn about awesome projects being undertaken by clubs across the world through presentations, exhibitions and evening get togethers.

Bangor Soroptimists International (SI) welcomed Sioned Glyn, an artist, teacher and Assistant Head of Syr Huw Owen in Caernarfon accompanied by Niamh, a former Syr Huw pupil and now an undergraduate at Bangor University studying Medical Science. They spoke of their experiences on a visit two years ago to Itala school in Zambia, Africa, together with other sixth form pupils and (SI) President Gwen Ellis Jones and member Sian Kent. Bangor Soroptimists continue to support the school regularly in a variety of ways.

We welcomed Malan Wilkinson who shared openly her journey with mental health challenges, followed by an interesting question and answer session which included her sister’s perspectives too.  A very thought provoking evening but greeted with smiles.