Unfortunately, this year because of lockdown, the annual Act of Remembrance at St John’s War Memorial in Whiteladies Road on 11th November had to be pared down and held without the usual attendance of 200 school pupils, a bugler, and music from a brass consort.   So, it was different but memorable and special nonetheless with clergy from Churches Together in Clifton, Redland and Cotham, a representative from the police, a Police Community Support Officer and a number of well distanced passers-by.   Four wreaths were laid including one by Sue P, President Elect, Soroptimist International Bristol.

On 4th November, President Elect Sue was honoured for her work at Abbeyfield. Due to the impending Lockdown (starting 5th November), the event was smaller than planned for such an auspicious occasion. The ceremony took place in All Saints Church, Clifton where it was possible to self-distance.  Two representatives from Abbeyfield presented Sue with a stylish broch, a framed certificate and a large bouquet of flowers. Following a thanks from Sue, a toast was given in Champagne.  Congratulations Sue – a truly worthy recognition of your commitment and service to Abbeyfield; first as a volunteer, then as a staff member and now as a volunteer.   Sue’s Certificate reads: “In grateful recognition of your outstanding and valued commitment to the care of older people, in particular for your incredible 45 years of commitment to Abbeyfield in the Bristol area and beyond, and for using your

In our Centenary year seven members of SI Bristol joined the annual conference online this year and there were over 900 other delegates. It was very different as Coronavirus had not allowed us to travel to Ireland where could also have enjoyed the sites and the atmosphere of this beautiful city.  We could not see the delegates but we understand that The South West and Channel Islands Region was well represented. On Thursday 29th October prior to Conference they ran the Federation Programme Action Committee meeting.  It was introduced and compared by SIGBI Programme Director, Kay Richmond and there were presentations throughout the day. The Conference ran from 13.30 – 17.00 each day and we could watch or catch up in the comfort of our own homes.  SI Bristol set up a WhatsApp group which enabled us to contact each other in a chatty way

  On 22nd October, a cohort of SI Bristol enjoyed a tour of trees on Durdham Downs in an area known as the Granny Downs. The socially distanced group were guided round by Gill, one of our members, and examined the features of 17 different trees, including one large leaved lime believed to be 200 years old.  Everyone appreciated the colourful Autumn leaves and the history of the area. It is hoped to repeat the tour next Spring  

On Tuesday, 29th September, President Marion presented a copy of our history book to Matthew Bennett, the new Head of Clifton High School. This presentation was particularly important as the founding President of SI Bristol, Miss Eleanor Addison Phillips, was head of Clifton High School from 1908 to 1933. The weather was so nice that the photograph to document the occasion was taken outside the building where Miss Phillips had her office This is just one of a number of books presented to people who have influenced the writing of the book to say “thank you”.  Other books have been donated to significant people/organisations who value the history of Soroptimist International of Bristol and our contribution to both the organisation and the City of Bristol.