Meet the Swallowtails
Swallowtail WI was founded in 2015 by Claire, Vicki, Szara and Roisin. They hatched a plan to set up a new WI over pizza and ice cream. They wanted to create a group that brought together local women; women who wanted to make friends, learn new things and new skills and eat cake. So that's what we did.
Some years later, the committee has changed from the original four pioneers and we've moved venue from one end of Sprowston to the other. The Swallowtails are a lovely bunch of ladies from different walks of life. Some of us can bake, some of us love to craft and some of us prefer to stay far away from anything handmade, at least with our own hands. We can all talk! None of us are what you might consider "traditional" WI members. We all share one thing in common though, we love to get together, relax and have a good time. Everybody is really friendly and welcoming and we'd love you to join us.
Some years later, the committee has changed from the original four pioneers and we've moved venue from one end of Sprowston to the other. The Swallowtails are a lovely bunch of ladies from different walks of life. Some of us can bake, some of us love to craft and some of us prefer to stay far away from anything handmade, at least with our own hands. We can all talk! None of us are what you might consider "traditional" WI members. We all share one thing in common though, we love to get together, relax and have a good time. Everybody is really friendly and welcoming and we'd love you to join us.
Meet the Committee
Hi, I'm Vicki, Swallowtail's President and a founder member. I work part-time and use my spare time to look after my family as well as baking lots.
Hello, I’m Kirsty, Swallowtail WI Secretary. I wasn’t going to join the WI. My mother-in-law told me I should, but I was worried it would be too stuffy or serious and might not be the place for me. But then my best friend moved abroad and I realised you don’t meet new friends sitting at home on the sofa or surfing the internet. You’ve got to put yourself out there. So I joined. And I’ve found a group of friendly, funny, interesting, warm ladies, whose cake baking skills are epic and where I frequently learn something new. Swallowtail WI has inspired me to volunteer with a hedgehog rescue centre, support our local domestic abuse victim charity, and learn how to ice cakes a bit better.
Hi, I’m Gillian, I joined Swallowtail WI when my daughter paid for my membership as a Mother's Day gift. I joined the committee and subsequently became Treasurer in 2022. I have lived in various countries around the world and settled in Norwich nearly 20 years ago. My hobbies are mainly in the area of making/crafting.
Hi, I'm Kate, a founder member. I work part-time and use my spare time to keep fit. I moved to Norwich just as Swallowtails started and have met many new friends through the WI. I enjoy cycling and keeping fit. I'm not so good at baking and crafts but I love hedgehogs and enjoy a good natter at the meetings.
Hello, I’m Rosemary. I am retired from a career in HR and lecturing. I enjoy knitting, dressmaking and embroidery. WI gives me friendship, knowledge and almost endless opportunities to do something new.
Hi I'm Julie I can't bake, knit, sew or crochet but I'm really good at chatting. I joined the WI to try new things and hopefully learn something new along the way too. I enjoy reading, walking and anything to do with animals and nature.
Hello, I’m Marguerite. I joined Swallowtail WI within two weeks of moving to Norfolk as I wanted to meet new people as soon as I could after moving house. I am enjoying getting to know both the county and the lovely ladies of the WI.
I enjoy crochet, baking, swimming, reading and hanging out with my enthusiastic and delinquent spaniel.
Hello I'm Jackie and I have been retired for two years but a WI member since 2012.
I enjoy patchwork/crafting, gardening, walking and yoga. The WI has given me many opportunities to try new things and make many new friends.