The SWRI (Scottish Women's Rural Institute) - Lochwinnoch
History The SWRI (Scottish Women's Rural Institute) was created 75 years ago to provide social interaction for farming women who lived in sparsely populated rural areas. Nowadays the SWRi has moved with the times and now provides networking for women of all walks of life in many rural areas. The philosophy of the organisation includes the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts in the fields of handicrafts and home cooking, as well as the dissemination of innovation in these areas. Also important is the provision of information on other topics of interest to today's woman.
Lochwinnoch SWRI has been in existence for 49 years and provides the local area with the facilities associated with the national philosophy. New members and guests are always welcome at any of the events.
There is a meeting on the third Wednesday of every month from September to April (not December) in the McKillop Hall. There is always an interesting speaker or event going on, perhaps a demonstration or display of crafts or home cooking. So far this year we have had a wide variety of topics including a speaker from the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, photographs of Scotland, interior design and a craft session.
There is also a craft workshop for members every fourth Wednesday of the month. This year so far we have had several pottery workshops and produced some unique pottery pigs and vases, and there was also a feltmaking session.
Forthcoming events in the McKillop Institute 7.30pm
- Wednesday 20th February 2002 Natural Therapy
- Wednesday 20th March 2002 Paint Effects
- Wednesday 17th April 2002 Beetle Drive and Games (members only)
SWRI Renfrewshire Federation Show - Looking to the Future.
There will be a display of handicrafts and home baking in Johnstone Town Hall on Wednesday 20th March 2002 from 3pm to 7.30pm and Thursday 21st March 2002 from 10am to 6pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and have a look.
For more information contact Gill Bell tel. 01505 842730 email Gill_Bell@btinternet.com