BY JACKIE MACKENZIE
Kyleakin Scottish Women’s Institute on Skye has celebrated a remarkable milestone.
Founded in 1926, the local SWI marked its 100th anniversary in Kyleakin Hall last Wednesday afternoon with a centenary exhibition and a social gathering.
Members enjoyed a sumptuous spread prepared by local caterer Rhona Coogan, a special cake baked by institute member and expert cake maker Barbara Haigh and bubbly for a toast. The exhibition featured crafting and handiwork and members were able to relive key moments in the group’s history through memorabilia and old photographs which were on display.
Margaret Govier, president of Kyleakin SWI and who has been a member for 24 years, said: “We still have the old minute books going back to 1926, all handwritten in those days. During the WW2 years members of the institute were knitting socks to be sent out in parcels to local lads, and were also involved in raising money to help build the old hall in Kyleakin.
“There used to be seven or eight SWIs on Skye but we’re the only one left now. However, we have a very active membership of 24 and hopefully the institute will carry on.”
The ladies meet on the first Wednesday of each month in Kyleakin Hall and new members are always welcome.