I’ve lived in Auchterhouse since 1981 and often heard about ‘The Rural’ but I thought that was for the more mature ladies of the community!
Around 15 years ago I was at our village Burns Supper which is organised by the SWI and saw older ladies struggling to serve and that was the moment I decided it was time to step up to the plate if I wanted these traditions to continue. And how wrong could I have been about the age criteria. We now have a ‘rural’ with members from their 20s to their 90s. We all get along famously and everyone can learn something from other members. Our ‘rural’ has grown in numbers year on year and we are now one of the larger Institutes in Angus and very strong. A varied and fun programme that appeals to all ages and a warm welcome – that to me is the future of our organisation. We also have a strong record in taking part in local and even national competitions within the organisation but it’s always the taking part which is the most important aspect and if we do well so much the better!
Before long I found myself on the committee and served terms as Secretary and Treasurer before taking on the role of President. I joined the Angus Federation executive committee as I became Ruralympics convener.
I was honoured to serve as Angus Federation President from 2018-20 and have taken on the role of Interim Treasurer until a permanent Treasurer can be found. I was also selected to sit on the National education and International committee in 2020 for a 3 year period.
If I can help to maintain Fun, Friendship and Service as core to our Executive committee I would be pleased to do so.