Lochrutton SWI recently marked a significant milestone by celebrating their 100th anniversary with a special event at the Galloway Arms Hotel in Crocketford. The occasion was graced by the presence of members of Lochrutton SWI along with esteemed guests including Scottish National President, Mary Burney, Stewartry Federation President Lesley Malcolmson, and representatives from neighbouring SWI branches in Crocketford and Shawhead.
The celebration began with President Linda McTurk extending a warm welcome to all attendees before introducing the distinguished guests. A highlight of the evening was when Mary Burney and Mairi Douglas, one of the oldest members, were invited to cut the anniversary cake. The significance of SWI’s formation post-WW1, during the Suffragette movement, was highlighted by Linda, illustrating the importance of providing rural women with their own support network.
The speeches emphasised the enduring relevance of the SWI in today’s society, with a focus on knowledge sharing, community building, and fostering friendships. The modernisation of the association was underscored, encouraging members to explore new activities such as dragon boat racing and bucket drumming while still cherishing traditional crafts. A special poem by Lindsay Greene and musical performances by Anita Gilmour and Joy added to the celebratory atmosphere.
The evening also featured a surprise raffle offering Gardenwise vouchers and floral decorations to the delight of the attendees. Jan Renwick expressed gratitude to the guests, organisers, and contributors on behalf of Lochrutton members, Crocketford, and Shawhead representatives. The hard work of Linda McTurk was acknowledged with flowers, and the event concluded with a round of applause, symbolising a century of dedication and camaraderie within Lochrutton SWI.
As Lochrutton SWI commemorated a century of empowering women and fostering a sense of community, the event served as a testament to the enduring values and spirit of the organisation. The evening of celebration and reflection highlighted the rich history and ongoing legacy of Lochrutton SWI, paving the way for another hundred years of camaraderie and empowerment among its members.