Avon Federation of WIs

Avon Federation of WIs We represent all WIs in the Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset area. Avon Federation was established in 1975.

This page is about sharing ideas and interests, advertising events, making friends, connecting people, and fun. We hope to help play a part in building new skills, introducing you to new hobbies and friends.

Avon Federation of Women's Institutes celebrates its 50th Anniversary and 110 years of the WI movement:September's Annua...
29/10/2025

Avon Federation of Women's Institutes celebrates its 50th Anniversary and 110 years of the WI movement:

September's Annual Meeting brought together members from across the Federation for a day of inspiration, friendship and celebration. Local dignitaries Helen Godwin, West of England Mayor, and Cllr Henry Michallat, Lord Mayor of Bristol, addressed the meeting and praised the WIs role in the community. Jeryl Stone, NFWI Chair, looked ahead to the next 110 years stressing the WI's democratic roots and commitment to meeting women's changing needs. Sustainable stylist Becky Barnes urged members to think differently about 'fast fashion' and the environmental cost of clothing, whilst guest speaker Ann Widdecombe entertained members with anecdotes of her life since leaving politics. The day also showcased creative talent with crafted post box toppers, entered in this year's competition for local WIs, and banners and wall hangings from the past 50 years of the Federation. The meeting closed with raffle prizes and commemorative certificates. Members agreed it was a fitting way to celebrate a milestone year for the Federation and the WI.

HISTORY TALK: 'AMY JOHNSON' THE REAL STORY WITH CANDY ADKINSWednesday 21 January 2026From 2.00pm (for a 2.15pm start) to...
08/10/2025

HISTORY TALK: 'AMY JOHNSON' THE REAL STORY WITH CANDY ADKINS
Wednesday 21 January 2026
From 2.00pm (for a 2.15pm start) to 4.00pm
Failand Village Hall, Oxhouse Lane, Failand, BS8 3TS

Candy Adkins is back by popular demand following her talk on the 'Spitfire Girl' last year.

AMY JOHNSON - THE REAL STORY

Amy's life was fast, fearless and fated. She was the first woman to risk flying solo from London to Australia, followed by hair-raising, record-breaking flights from London to South Africa and then across the Atlantic to the USA. The Americans loved her, and she landed to cheering crowds wherever she went. War broke out and she wanted to do her bit, but her pioneering life was mysteriously cut short!

What really happened when she disappeared in 1941?

There is plenty of parking at this venue and Tea/Coffee will be provided.

Members: £12.50
Non-Members: £14.50
Closing Date: Monday 15 December 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

DON'T FORGET TO APPLY!HISTORY TALK: THE WOMEN WHO BUILT BRISTOL - VOLUME THREEWednesday 29 October 20252.00pm to 3.30pmC...
10/09/2025

DON'T FORGET TO APPLY!

HISTORY TALK: THE WOMEN WHO BUILT BRISTOL - VOLUME THREE
Wednesday 29 October 2025
2.00pm to 3.30pm
Cleeve Village Hall, Main Road, Cleeve, Bristol, BS49 4PF (A370)
Jane Duffus returns by popular demand to give her talk based on The Women who built Bristol - Volume Three.
Jane has worked in journalism/publishing for more than 25 years, whether on bestselling news stand magazines or as the author of six books about social history, including 'The Women who built Bristol'. Jane's latest book was published in March 2025, so all new details for us to hear about.
In addition, to doing all her own research and writing, Jane works as an editor for other writers, has contributed chapters to other people's books, and is a popular public speaker.
For more information visit: www.janduffus.com
Tea and Coffee will be provided.
Members: £12.00
Non-Members: £14.00
Closing Date: Monday 22 September 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

DON'T FORGET TO APPLY!HISTORY TALK: THE NEWPORT MEDIEVAL SHIPThursday 23 October 20252.00pm to 3.30pmSt Edyth's Church H...
28/08/2025

DON'T FORGET TO APPLY!

HISTORY TALK: THE NEWPORT MEDIEVAL SHIP
Thursday 23 October 2025
2.00pm to 3.30pm
St Edyth's Church Hall, Avonleaze, Sea Mills, Bristol BS9 2HU

We are privileged to have Dr Toby Jones, curator of the Newport Medieval Ship Project, present the first of our History Talks for 2025.
The Newport Medieval Ship: 'The Fascinating Journey from Discovery to Future', is an insight into the work that has taken place on this project, since the shipwreck was discovered and raised between 2002 and 2003, and how our understanding of this 15th century merchant vessel has progressed through cleaning, digital documentation, analysis, and conservation.
Dr Toby Jones reveals the secrets behind this enigmatic vessel and explores what it can tell us about medieval life aboard and in Newport. He will also discuss plans for the reassembly and display of this unique international treasure.
Tea and Coffee will be provided.

Members: £12.00
Non-Members: £14.00
Closing Date: Tuesday 16 September 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

AFWI CAROL SERVICETuesday 16 December 2025From 2.00pm to 3.00pmSt Mary's Church, Castle Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 ...
27/08/2025

AFWI CAROL SERVICE

Tuesday 16 December 2025
From 2.00pm to 3.00pm
St Mary's Church, Castle Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 1HQ

The Federation’s Carol Service this year will be held at St Mary’s Church in Thornbury where the AFWI Choir, conducted by Jane Kern, will lead the singing, accompanied by the church organist.

There is limited parking on the road outside the church and in adjacent roads, as well as three public car parks in Thornbury. The town is also on several bus routes so please use public transport and car shares where possible.

Thornbury is known for its historic high street which has a variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The church is an approximate 10 minute walk from the town centre. So, why not have a break from the madness that is Christmas preparation and enjoy a day out with friends and join in the Carol Service to really get into the Christmas spirit?

Members: £7.00
Non-Members: £9.00
Closing Date: Monday 3 November 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

If your local WI doesn't have its own Lottery, please consider giving AVON Federation of WIs a fundraising boost: https:...
14/08/2025

If your local WI doesn't have its own Lottery, please consider giving AVON Federation of WIs a fundraising boost: https://www.thewilottery.co.uk/support/avon-federation-of-wis.

This month it's our big August Super Draw prize - a HUGE £2,000 Luxury Getaway! On Saturday 30th August, one lucky supporter will win this fantastic summer prize (or of course, a huge £2,000 cash alternative!).

Whisk your family away – or treat yourself to a 5-star European city break! With £2,000 to spend on your dream getaway, the world is at your feet! Escape to the forest with a relaxing break at Center Parcs, take the family to Disneyland Paris – or plan ahead, and book a trip to see the beautiful Northern Lights.

Alternatively, choose our all-green option - planting 2,000 trees!

REMINDER TO APPLY!2025 AFWI Annual Meeting Tuesday 23 September 2025From 10.15am to 3.30pm BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, Fil...
31/07/2025

REMINDER TO APPLY!

2025 AFWI Annual Meeting
Tuesday 23 September 2025
From 10.15am to 3.30pm
BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, Filton, Bristol BS34 7RF

This is AFWI's 50th Anniversary year and we are delighted to welcome Jeryl Stone, NFWI Chair. The WI is the largest women's organisation in the UK, founded in the times of the Suffragettes, now in its 110th Year. An incredible past - but what does Jeryl foresee for the WI members of the future?
Also, a big welcome to a local very inspiring woman Becky Barnes. Becky is a personal stylist with a passion for helping women look and feel their absolute best without it, literally, costing the earth by making more conscious, sustainable choices and having fun at the same time.
We are particularly excited and thrilled to introduce Ann Widdecombe this year. Ann really needs no introduction to the WI. Ann's varied career in politics, TV, radio and as an author means she will have a wealth of unique stories and anecdotes to share with members. We can't wait!

Please Note: At this venue, you can only eat and drink food which you have bought from BAWA. Please use the application form to pre-order sandwiches at a cost of £2.75. Tea and Coffee will also be available to purchase during the lunch break.

Members Only: £21 (Note: each WI can send one free delegate)
Closing Date: Thursday 7 August 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

REMINDER TO NOMINATE!2025 AFWI CHAIRMAN'S ROSE BOWLWIs are invited to nominate a WI member who has, whilst a member, gon...
31/07/2025

REMINDER TO NOMINATE!

2025 AFWI CHAIRMAN'S ROSE BOWL

WIs are invited to nominate a WI member who has, whilst a member, gone 'above and beyond' for their WI, demonstrating outstanding skills, commitment, leadership or initiative. The member may also be involved with the local community.

Guidelines for submission:
- The application should be written in 12 Point font, up to 500 words, on an A4 sheet of paper.
- The word count should be included as a footnote; with the name of the nominated member and the WI they attend.

Please email your word-processed entries to office@avonfwi.org.uk by 12.00 noon on 7 August 2025.
The winner will be announced at the 2025 AFWI Annual Meeting on Tuesday 23 September 2025.

THE INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE & HISTORY OF THE EAST MIDLANDS5 Days from £719Departing 5th October 2026This holiday includes fo...
21/07/2025

THE INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE & HISTORY OF THE EAST MIDLANDS
5 Days from £719
Departing 5th October 2026
This holiday includes four nights half board accommodation at the 4* Delta by Marriott Belfry Hotel on the outskirts of Nottingham, all excursion travel & guided tours, and the entrance fees to non-National Trust properties. The holiday also includes executive coach throughout and Blue Badge guide on Days 2 to 4.
On this holiday we will visit Baddesley Clinton, Hardwick Hall and Packwood House (all National Trust properties), Cromford Mills, Crich Tramway Village, National Space Centre and Framework Knitters Museum amongst others.
There are limited places on this holiday which is expected to be popular amongst members, so don't miss the chance to book your place.
You can view and share this holiday online - click on 'View your Tour' at www.tailored-travel.co.uk and quote afwi262.
For more information please request a booking form by emailing federationholidays@avonfwi.org.uk or contact Sue Murphy, Tel: 0117 9864782.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DAYThursday 13 November 202510.15am (for a 10.30am start) to 3.30pmChipping Sodbury Town Hall, 57-59 Broa...
17/07/2025

PUBLIC AFFAIRS DAY

Thursday 13 November 2025
10.15am (for a 10.30am start) to 3.30pm
Chipping Sodbury Town Hall, 57-59 Broad Street, Chipping Sodbury, BA37 6AD

We have organised a day with various speakers on a range of topics.

The morning will include speakers from the St John Ambulance on 'Bystanders can be Lifesavers', followed by an input on 'Thinking Differently: Understanding Autism and ADHD in Women and Girls.'

In the afternoon, Hayley Scott, a Forensic Scientist with the Metropolitan Police will share some of her experiences with us.

So, another day not to be missed!

Coffee can be purchased on arrival. There will be a raffle and Avon Country Markets will have goods for sale.

Members: £17.00
Non-Members: £19.00
Closing Date: Monday 6 October 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

WIRE WORK WORKSHOPTuesday 2 December 202510.00am to 12.00noonThe Conygre Hall, North Road, Timsbury, Nr Bath, BA2 0JQHol...
17/07/2025

WIRE WORK WORKSHOP

Tuesday 2 December 2025
10.00am to 12.00noon
The Conygre Hall, North Road, Timsbury, Nr Bath, BA2 0JQ

Holly Berkley is a wire worker and teacher based in Somerset. With 37 years' experience in wire working and ten years in teaching, Holly has been featured in the national press, including Vogue magazine, and on live TV.

During this project we will be using hammers and miniature anvils, wire winders and pliers to make either a cushioned 'Christmas Star Decoration' with beautiful beaten spiral accents or 'A Tree of Life pendant and jewellery set', which would make a great gift or to keep for yourself.

Suitable for all abilities. All tools and materials are supplied.
Tea and Coffee will be provided.

Members Only: £35.00
Closing Date: Monday 3 November 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

HISTORY TALK: THE WOMEN WHO BUILT BRISTOL - VOLUME THREEWednesday 29 October 20252.00pm to 3.30pmCleeve Village Hall, Ma...
16/07/2025

HISTORY TALK: THE WOMEN WHO BUILT BRISTOL - VOLUME THREE

Wednesday 29 October 2025
2.00pm to 3.30pm
Cleeve Village Hall, Main Road, Cleeve, Bristol, BS49 4PF (A370)

Jane Duffus returns by popular demand to give her talk based on The Women who built Bristol - Volume Three.
Jane has worked in journalism/publishing for more than 25 years, whether on bestselling news stand magazines or as the author of six books about social history, including 'The Women who built Bristol'. Jane's latest book was published in March 2025, so all new details for us to hear about.
In addition, to doing all her own research and writing, Jane works as an editor for other writers, has contributed chapters to other people's books, and is a popular public speaker.
For more information visit: www.janduffus.com

Tea and Coffee will be provided.

Members: £12.00
Non-Members: £14.00
Closing Date: Monday 22 September 2025
Please apply through your WI Secretary

Address

WI House 11 Station Road
Bristol
BS312BH

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 3pm
Tuesday 10am - 3pm
Wednesday 10am - 3pm
Thursday 10am - 3pm

Telephone

0117 9864782

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Avon Federation of WIs posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Featured

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram