Introducing the Chester Grosvenor NWR group…
Chester Grosvenor NWR group was formed after the original Chester South group grew too popular and accommodating members in our homes – even using the stairs to sit on – became a problem. Chester South was subsequently split into two groups, Eaton and Grosvenor in, we think, 1979.
We meet every fortnight, in the evening, and have recently started a programme of daytime outings. Our evening meetings cover topics as varied as universal suffrage – the right to vote for all adults; Room 101: What would you banish into Room 101 – what object, or person, really annoys you; Naughty but Nice, Underwear from 1840 to the present day; ‘The colour purple’, wear purple and bring interesting things or facts along; Art critic night: Choose a painting and research/review it for the meeting. One of our favourite evenings is to choose a letter from the alphabet, for example the letter A, and then we each select something beginning with this letter to talk about – the range of topics is astonishing! Theatre visits are also an annual treat.
Our daytime outings include walks, museums, art exhibitions, National Trust properties and anything else that has caught our interest.
These are some of our members’ experiences of NWR:
“I joined NWR 25 years ago when my youngest child started school as I wanted some ‘me’ time after all those early years at home. I had been urged to join by a friend and although I already knew a few people locally, I have met so many more on joining and since. I find it a good way to keep in touch and see people without having to arrange too much! And I have learned a lot (e.g. the saxophone was invented in Belgium, where incest is still legal …). Most of our meetings are within walking distance so a relaxing evening with friends and a glass (or two) of wine is very possible.” Penny White.
“I first joined in Culcheth after I had my first baby in 1972, to meet other people and talk about topics other than small children. Not that I said much then, but NWR did give me confidence gradually to join in!” Chris Westcott.
“We arrived in Chester in 1979 with a 20 month old toddler and two week old baby. Apart from my husband I knew nobody but we hadn’t been in the house for long before a knock on the door resulted in the introduction to NWR. I am eternally grateful to Christine for making contact – we remain close friends and NWR has played a big part, both directly and indirectly, in establishing Chester as our home.” Mary Pole.
“I’ve really enjoyed being a member of Chester Grosvenor NWR. As a relatively new member, having only moved to the area three years ago, I was fortunate to be introduced via a friend of a friend and immediately found myself part of a group of lively women. I have made new friends and feel that membership has eased me into feeling part of the local community. I have found the range of activities and discussions stimulating and fun. I like the way the group is always thinking of new things to do, explore and talk about.” Julie Savory.
Some of our members have been in NWR for over 40 years and we are pleased to say that we continue to welcome new members to the group. Do get in touch if you would like to find out more.