SI Canterbury celebrated International Women’s Day with a fabulous Dinner and Dance for 80 guests at Howfield Manor Hotel, Canterbury.
The evening began with a pre-dinner drinks reception which was followed by a wonderful three course dinner.
Rosie Duffield MP (Canterbury’s first female MP) then gave an interesting after dinner speech which was very well received by guests.
In her talk she provided insights into her journey to Westminster and her first impressions of her life as an MP. She also highlighted the need for more women in political life and her work within the Women’s Equality Group.
Soroptimists we’re delighted that she also highlighted the work of SI Canterbury and and thanked them for the good work that they do.
Following her talk Rosie mingled with guests answering questions and talking about local issues.
The evening ended with guests listening and dancing to ‘Bamboozle’, a local rockabilly band who really livened up the event.
The dance floor was full for both of the band’s sets as guests enthusiastically danced and sang along.
A raffle in support of our charity partner, Target Ovarian Cancer raised £600 with donations of vouchers from local restaurants and shops. Cafe du Soliel, Cote Brasserie, the Dolphin, Chapman’s and the Tankerton Arms provided restaurant vouchers, the Hotel Continental gave a fabulous accommodation/food voucher worth £100 and we were able to put together a great wine hamper with donations from Waitrose, Mouton Rouge Wine Merchants, Wincheap Wines and Howfield Manor Hotel. Many thanks go to all these local businesses.
All in all this was a great celebration of 100 years of women’s suffrage!