During the anxious days approaching the Second World War, a small group of women gathered in May, 1938, to form Soroptimist International of Crosby.
Since then, through the war and onwards, the club has worked tirelessly with international colleagues to enhance the lives of women and girls not only locally and in this country but all over the world. Members have also given considerable voluntary support to the local community and its charities.
This contribution was acknowledged by principal guest, the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mr Mark Blundell at the club’s 80th Anniversary Dinner, held at West Lancs Golf Club.
In particular, he thanked members for their support for CHET (Crosby Hall Educational Trust) a registered charity of which he is patron, which offers outdoor activity breaks at Crosby Hall, for children who might otherwise not have a holiday.
The anniversary dinner co-incided with the Royal Wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in Windsor. Club President Sheila Chatterton said that the new Duchess seemed to share many of the values of Soroptimist International which had been founded in her native America.
The Duchess had long campaigned internationally for women’s issues and the empowerment of women and had stressed that people must be encouraged to listen to women’s voices.
“We would say that our organisation is one of those that gives women a voice, right up to the level of the United Nations,” said President Sheila. “”Indeed, the President of SI Great Britain and Ireland, Susan Biggs, agrees with the Duchess, saying in her latest message: “Empower Today – Enable Tomorrow” There has never been a better time to do this.“
President Sheila has pledged to make Sefton Young Carers, particularly those caring for people with mental illness, her special cause during her year of office, helping to improve their lives.
A highlight of the evening was a performance by the award-winning Liverpool Signing Choir., led by their conductor and founder, Catherine Hegarty M.B.E.
