COME AND JOIN US: Barnard Castle WI secretary Sheila Jones brews up for Christine Thistlethwaite, left, and Ann Gill.
COME AND JOIN US: Barnard Castle WI secretary Sheila Jones brews up for Christine Thistlethwaite, left, and Ann Gill.

THE ladies of Barnard Castle WI are hoping prospective new members will join them for a cuppa – and help raise money for a good cause.

The Barney branch is hosting Coffee for County on Saturday, February 9, from 10am to noon at Barnard Castle Methodist Church Hall.

Money raised will help cover the running costs of the Durham County Federation of Women's Institutes.

In addition to tea, coffee and biscuits, there will be homemade cakes baked by the members for sale.

Branch secretary Sheila Jones said the coffee morning was a chance to find out more about the branch and also linked in with the WI’s ongoing campaign to try to alleviate loneliness.

“This is an opportunity for people to come and enjoy a cup of coffee and find people to talk to and share with.

“It is also a chance to find out more what the WI offers to people in Barnard Castle, make new friends and get involved in various activities.”

Barnard Castle boasted a WI branch for a number of years before it lapsed. However, it was resurrected five years ago and now boasts about 25 members.

Meetings are held at the Guide Hut, in Birch Road, on the fourth Monday of the month except February and a varied line-up of guests and speakers has been arranged for the coming year. In March, upper dale minister Revd Alison Wallbank will present Stories from Stoles.

Other activities pencilled in for the coming months include a visit by members of the Castle Players and a fudge making session with Loopy Lisa, from Evenwood.

In August, members will be exploring the town's yards and alleyways with Peter Singer, followed by a fish and chips supper.

Anyone interested in learning more about Barnard castle WI can contact Mrs Jones on 01325 733228 or acting president Naila Laundy on 07999 957898.