By Isle of Wight Observer
Six members of Freshwater Bay WI (FBWI) have enjoyed a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace.
The women were invited because of their WI efforts, in particular the work of the FBWI Baguettes, who have made nearly 1,000 specially- adapted cushions for mastectomy patients on the Island, drainage bag covers, twiddlemuffs for dementia sufferers, fidget toys, and toilet bags for emergency hospital admissions.
The Baguettes were set up by Sandra Thearle and Peri Ryan eight years ago.
Sandra now runs a virtual cottage industry supporting dozens of WI members who produce items for St Mary’s Hospital.
All the items are carefully made for when patients are at their most vulnerable, and the WI has received many letters of thanks over the years.
On the day, the sun shone, Beefeaters marched, and the bands played, all in 40 acres of grounds not usually seen by the public.
FBWI enjoyed exploring the gardens and especially the delicious tea. The garden party was attended by the King and Queen, the Princess Royal, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Duchess of Gloucester.
