The Hereford Soroptimists celebrate their first anniversary this year. The first year for the Hereford branch of Soroptimist SI has been exceptionally busy raising funds for a variety of charities. The last event was held at Trinity Church, Whitecross, when the Phoenix Choir from Glasgow performed with the Hereford Male Voice Choir. The concert was a great success and raised nearly £800, a portion of which will go to Close House to support vulnerable young people.

The first anniversary of Soroptimists SI was celebrated by an afternoon tea at Hellens House, Much Marcle, where members were given a tour of this popular tourist attraction set in the heart of the most beautiful English countryside.

Many members from other branches in the West Midlands attended the event where everybody wore hats, making it a very special and colourful event.

The president, Stephanie Jones, has a full programme planned with some very interesting speakers for her term of office. “We may be a young group but we are active and meet monthly at the Green Dragon and I am pleased that the first year has gone so well,” she said.

Coun Marcelle Lloyd-Hayes, president elect, discovered that one member had run a marathon in the morning and driven many miles to join in the afternoon celebrations”.

The sisterhood of Soroptimsts is growing in size, and offers women the opportunity to serve the local community as well as supporting women in need of education and healthcare worldwide.