The weather has turned cold, the decorations are going up and we seem to have bought or baked enough food for the whole street – Christmas is coming! Salford Angels WI festivities are in full swing and we’re loving all the tinsel and sparkle.

Last week, The Angels enjoyed a performance of Irving Berlins’ White Christmas at the Lowry theatre, starring Steven Houghton, Ken Kercheval, Wendi Peters and Claire Sweeney. This multi-million pound production is certainly impressive with its lavish and colourful set design, big dance numbers and beautiful costumes. The show features popular songs from the Bing Crosby film, such as Sisters, Blue Skies and of course White Christmas, which the audience are given the opportunity to sing along to. The Angels very much enjoyed the show. There are plenty of laughs and a nice, festive surprise for the audience at the end. White Christmas will definitely get you in the Christmas mood.

Sunday brought a bright, cold day and wreath making at Garden Needs at the beautiful Kersal Dale. We went foraging for holly, ivy and other foliage to make our own wreaths. Karen and Emma went through the instructions and soon there were wonderful creations of all types and sizes which now look great on our doors! Then inside for warming mulled wine, homemade soup and a good Christmas singalong.

We’re also excited about our charity Christmas Tree in the Lowry Outlet Mall. There are some fantastic trees which will be sold off to raise much needed funds for Francis House Hospice who help children with life limiting conditions and their families.

Our next general meeting will be on the 20th December and we are looking forward to learning how to make ‘alternative’ Christmas table decorations and hear all about the full programme for next year – we’ll need Christmas for a rest!