Thank you to all our past speakers.
2026 Speakers
August 2026
James Ellson
It Was Worth the Wait!
It was certainly worth the wait! Adverse weather conditions in January meant we had to cancel and rearrange our planned talk by author James Ellson, but fortunately he was able to join us in August.
James spent 15 years in the police service, beginning his career in London before moving to Moss Side in Manchester. Following his retirement from the police, he turned his attention to writing, with his debut novel, The Trail, published in 2020. Since then, he has gone on to write five books in his popular DCI Castle series.
James proved to be a fascinating and entertaining speaker, sharing insights from both his policing career and his life as an author. Members thoroughly enjoyed his talk and we very much hope it won’t be too long before he returns to visit us again.
July 2026
Jane Antrobus
From ASBO Child to Top Cop and Beyond
We were delighted to welcome Jane Antrobus, a former senior police officer and now a civil celebrant, who entertained us with a fascinating and often amusing account of her remarkable career, aptly entitled “From ASBO Child to Top Cop and Beyond.”
Jane began her story by admitting that she was a very naughty and mischievous child! After working for the local authority and later the Co-op in Oldham, she joined Greater Manchester Police, embarking on a career that would span 30 years. In 2010 she retired as the first-ever female Detective Chief Superintendent in Greater Manchester Police, a remarkable achievement.
June 2026
Susan Holden
At our June meeting, we welcomed Susan Holden, a solicitor, who gave us an entertaining and fascinating insight into her career in law.
Susan left school at 16 and began her legal career in the Legal Department of the local authority, studying part-time at college to become a Legal Executive. Her determination and commitment eventually saw her qualify as a solicitor at the age of 50.
During her career, Susan worked on the sale of council properties to a private company, sharing some interesting experiences from her time in local government.
She also gave us an amusing insight into some of the more unusual and famous legal cases that have made the headlines. These included the long-running debate over whether a Jaffa Cake is a cake or a biscuit, Cadbury’s use of the colour purple, the distinctive shape of the Coca-Cola bottle, and whether royalties are payable when “Happy Birthday” is sung in public.
Susan’s talk provided an entertaining look at the fascinating and sometimes surprising world of law.
May 2026
Brian Topping
At our May meeting, we were delighted to welcome back former Customs Officer Brian Topping, who returned to share more fascinating insights into his experiences in “A World of Mules and Minders.”
Brian brought along examples of Customs uniforms and explained the important role played by Customs Officers, including how, in certain circumstances, their powers can be greater than those of the police.
He also gave us an insight into the ever-changing world of drug smuggling, which has become a truly global problem. We heard how specially trained dogs are now used to check luggage and help detect illegal substances when passengers arrive at their destination.
Brian’s fascinating talk provided plenty of interesting information and gave us a greater understanding of the challenges faced by Customs Officers in tackling international smuggling.
Charity Donation 2025
Oldham Mountain Rescue Team was our chosen charity for 2025, and at our May meeting we were delighted to present a cheque for £2,000 to three members of the team, including their President, Peter Hyde, and Dr Andy Taylor.
The donation was raised through our Christmas Wreath and Decorations Stall, cake sales and a variety of fundraising activities organised throughout the year.
Oldham Mountain Rescue Team is entirely volunteer-run and relies on donations to continue its vital work. We are pleased that our contribution will help provide essential equipment for new volunteers as they begin their training and service with the team.
April 2026
Katie Keeley
Katie Keeley, daughter of member Rebecca, captivated the audience with an inspiring glimpse into her life as a mountaineer. Drawing on her experiences in China, Patagonia, the USA, and Kyrgyzstan, she shared stories that transported everyone to the heart of some of the world’s most challenging terrains.
Her talk focused particularly on a five-week expedition in Kyrgyzstan, where she and a team from Sheffield scaled multiple peaks, facing both physical and mental challenges along the way. Through a dynamic slideshow and video clips, Katie brought the climbs to life, highlighting the technical skills, resilience, and teamwork required to conquer such demanding landscapes. Attendees were left both awed and motivated by her adventurous spirit and dedication.
Our Annual Meeting was also held on the same eventing and we are delighted that Ella and Alison have been re-elected as Joint Presidents.
March 2026
Inspirational Women
At the meeting on 4th March, members enjoyed a relaxed and thoughtful social evening to mark International Women’s Day. Reflecting the National Federation of Women’s Institutes theme for the year, “Give to Gain,” the group celebrated the inspirational women who had shaped their lives.
Members were invited to reflect on women who had motivated, encouraged or influenced them. These included teachers, mentors, friends, family members, authors, filmmakers and public figures. In small table discussions, members shared why these women had inspired them, how their influence had shaped their lives, and whether they had been able to pass on that inspiration to others. The discussions also considered ways that Saddleworth WI might support and inspire women within the local community.
Afterwards, those who wished spoke briefly to the wider group. Members were also invited to write down one or two words that captured the essence of the woman they had chosen. These were displayed together, creating a collective tribute to the many women who inspire members’ lives.
The evening proved to be a meaningful and uplifting opportunity for shared stories, reflection and appreciation.
February 2026
Helen Hadfield – Sound Healing Practitioner
Helen Hadfield delivered a session focused on sound healing and relaxation. She had previously given 30 members a successful Sunday relaxation event in November.
Helen has an extensive background, having worked as a counsellor, holistic therapist, Reiki practitioner, and Zumba instructor, alongside running her sound relaxation business. During her talk, she highlighted the importance of mental wellbeing and noted that people can experience up to 780,000 thoughts per day. She encouraged practising meditation, even for short periods, as a simple way to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The session concluded with Helen guiding attendees through a sound relaxation exercise, which was well received and enjoyed by all present.
10 year member Brenda Boston received her certificate and gift from President Ella Weatherhead.
2025 Speakers
November 2025
Oldham Mountain Rescue Team (Speaker: President Peter Hyde)
Peter Hyde presented on the work of the Oldham Mountain Rescue Team, opening with a video that highlighted the wide range of skilled activities the team undertakes. The team works closely with the Fire Service, Police, and Ambulance services.
Peter shared notable experiences from his career, including involvement in the Lockerbie disaster and Dr. Andy Taylor’s contribution to identifying the bomber. The team frequently assists in locating missing persons; one such operation even led to a lunch with The Queen.
Oldham Mountain Rescue has 50 active members, with around 12 typically needed for callouts. They collaborate with neighbouring rescue teams such as Bury and Glossop and use SARCALL, a multi-agency platform for managing search and rescue incidents.
The organisation is 90% funded by public donations, with an additional £50,000 from proceeds of crime funds. They benefit from VAT exemption and Gift Aid eligibility. Annual running costs total £45,000, including £15,000 in rent. The team currently has one search dog, with access to up to five more when needed.
Peter expressed how pleased the team is to be chosen as the organisation’s charity of the year.
October 2025
A Life of Inclusion, The George House Trust
Our speakers — Paul Fairweather, Anita Binns, and Agetha Phiri — each shared powerful and deeply personal stories about their journeys since being diagnosed with HIV. Speaking with honesty and eloquence, they helped us understand not only the medical facts but also the human realities of living with the condition today.
They explained the many ways HIV can be contracted, highlighting a surprising statistic: around 50% of new cases now occur among older heterosexual men and women. Thanks to routine HIV testing in A&E departments across Greater Manchester, many symptomless cases are being identified early. Pregnant women are also routinely screened, helping ensure early treatment and prevention.
While modern medication has transformed HIV into a manageable condition — controlled with just one tablet a day — the speakers reminded us that stigma and discrimination remain major challenges. These social barriers can have a profound impact on mental health and quality of life.
Paul, Anita, and Agetha also spoke warmly of the George House Trust, whose support has been life-changing for many living with HIV. The Trust not only provides practical help and emotional support but also plays a vital role in education and awareness, working with schools and community groups to challenge misconceptions and foster understanding.
Their stories were moving, informative, and inspiring — a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how much compassion and awareness still matter.
10 year members – we gave out another 3 gifts, there are still 5 people to go!
September 2025 – Anniversary Celebrations
September was a month of milestones! We gathered to mark not one, but three special anniversaries: the 17th anniversary of Saddleworth WI’s re-forming, the National WI’s impressive 110th year, and the Lancashire Federation’s 105th.
No celebration would be complete without a toast (or two!) and, of course, a delicious selection of cakes baked by our talented members. A special moment of the evening was presenting gifts to those who have been loyal members for 10 years—what a wonderful achievement.
Instead of our usual speaker, the room buzzed with excitement as we held a lively “Horse Race” that got everyone involved. Laughter, cheering, and a little friendly competition made it an unforgettable highlight. Caroline Kiss was the overall winner of the Race Night. Proceeds from the race went to this year’s chosen charity, the Oldham Mountain Rescue Team. It was a joyful evening full of fun, friendship, and community spirit—exactly what WI is all about, and everyone went home with a rosette!
August 2025
Jackie Madden – “Forever Angels” Charity
For the past 17 years, Jackie has dedicated herself to Forever Angels, a life-changing charity based in Tanzania. The organisation cares for orphaned and abandoned babies, offering hope where it’s needed most.
In Tanzania, the reality is stark: 20 women die every day in childbirth, often due to complications from malaria and HIV. Multiple births are common, and many families simply cannot cope. Forever Angels steps in with two powerful projects:
Project 1: Emergency Baby Care
With love, nutrition, and vital medical support, the team provides round-the-clock care for the most vulnerable. Wherever possible, babies are reunited with their families. Over the years, 491 children have been cared for, with 221 reunited with family and 165 placed into loving adoptive homes.
Project 2: Family Empowerment
Prevention is just as important as rescue. This project works directly with families, giving them the tools and support they need to provide safe, nurturing homes. By strengthening families, Forever Angels is breaking the cycle of poverty and abandonment.
Jackie’s message is simple but powerful:
“Saving babies is investing in the future.”
July 2025
Brian Groom – Fascinating Women of Manchester
Journalist and Saddleworth resident Brian Groom spoke about his book Made in Manchester, a people’s history of the city. He highlighted 20 remarkable women, from 1st-century Celtic queen Cartimandua to modern icons like Victoria Wood and Diane Modahl. Their legacies include Manchester’s landmark buildings, advances in education, property rights, and the suffragette-led fight for the vote. Brian also offered signed copies of his book for sale.
June 2025
John Piekos on Uncovering Modern Slavery
Retired Chief Inspector John Piekos shared his harrowing experiences uncovering modern slavery, particularly the trafficking of young girls and boys. He spoke of the lasting trauma suffered by victims and the resistance he faced from authorities—especially in exposing abuse within Children’s Homes. Now leading the charity Safe and Free, he urges support to help survivors. While welcoming the recent Oldham enquiry, he called for a full National Enquiry.
Learn more or donate at safeandfree.co.uk.
May 2025
Sue Ashworth, a former nurse of 30 years, shared the inspiring story behind Hog Manor, the hedgehog sanctuary she founded in 2019. What began in a garden shed has grown into a fully equipped hospital—with plans for a new outdoor enclosure.
With hedgehog numbers plummeting from 30 million to just 1 million over the past 50 years, Sue’s work is more vital than ever. As humans, we’re their biggest threat—but also their best hope.
Sue encouraged us to help by letting parts of our gardens go wild, offering water and kitten biscuits, and taking daytime-straying or injured hedgehogs to a rescue centre. Hog Manor, located on Delph Lane, welcomes visitors and continues to be a sanctuary in every sense of the word.
April 2025
Our member Marie Newell and her colleague Katie Heywood from Crompton House, both Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Co-ordinators, gave an interesting presentation on Unmasking Autism and Understanding the Female Perspective. They tested our current understanding about autism in women and girls and helped us become aware of the strategies adopted by them to fit in. It was enlightening to see from videos how much happier they can be after deciding to be open about their different perspectives.
March 2025
Our Annual Meeting when the new committee was elected, headed by joint presidents Ella Weatherhead and Alison Blake. Following this our member Hilary Boon gave us a quiz to test our brain cells. Hilary’s Zoom quizzes during lockdown were legendary and this one maintained her reputation.
February 2025
Playwright Martin Roche gave us a fascinating perspective of his work and how he develops his ideas for plays. He also gave a except from his monologue “Ancient and Modern”.
January 2025
Unfortunately our meeting needed to be cancelled due to bad weather and concern for the safety of our members. Speaker Brian Groom has been rescheduled to later in the year.
2024 Speakers
✨ Saddleworth WI Meeting Speakers Roundup: 2024 ✨
🎄 December 2024 – Christmas Social
🎤 November 2024 – SWI Member Ruth Trickett talked about her trip to India “Travelling leaves you speechless and turns you into a storyteller.” Joint Presidents Ella and Alison elected to serve until the Annual Meeting in March 2025.
🎭 October 2024 – Paul Firth, a retired primary school teacher, spoke about “Life on and off the Stage” and led the singing of two songs from musicals.
📅 September 2024 – Nina Gilligan, actor, writer, and comedian, and the daughter of a SWI member, talked about her journey to become a stand-up comedian. Also, 10-year anniversary gifts were given to two members, followed by an anniversary cake.
🩺 August 2024 – Dr. Helena Thornton, a former forensic medical physician, talked about her role in establishing the St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), the first of its kind in the UK, following one in Perth Australia.
🚐 July 2024 – Siobhan Daniels spoke about life after 60 as a pro-age campaigner. Known as the “Caravan lady,” she sold all her possessions and bought “Dora the Explorer,” a van in which she now lives.
🌍 June 2024 – Tony Redmond OBE, the founder of UK-Med, spoke about the work of this humanitarian medical aid charity based in Manchester.
👮 May 2024 – Superintendent Judith Holmes talked about her career in the police and how the force has changed in its treatment of its female workforce over the past 30 years.
🐱 April 2024 – Faye Kennerley, Manager of Oldham Cats Animal Rescue, shared insights about the rescue’s work.
🎤 March 2024 – Annual Meeting followed by Quizmaster Paul Norfolk. The quiz was won by the “Delph Donkeys.”
👗 February 2024 – Jeff Longmore “Life in the Theatre in a Frock” talked about his career and at the same time transformed into Dame Trott.
🚌 January 2024 – Pam Wharton, Groups & Tours Manager for Ellen Smith’s Coach Tours from Rochdale, explained the history of the company and the tours they can offer to groups.
2023 Speakers
✨ Saddleworth WI Meeting Speakers Roundup: 2023 ✨
✈️ November 2023 – Behind the Scenes at Heathrow
Speaker: Brian Topping, a former customs officer at Heathrow, shared riveting stories from his time at the UK’s busiest airport.
🍛 October 2023 – Nipple Innovation Project
Speaker: Lucy Thompson, founder of the UK’s first mastectomy tattoo charity, talked about her journey and the charity’s efforts.
👩🏫 August 2023 – A Member’s Life in Teaching
Speaker: Alison Blake, who shared her unscripted, heartfelt account of her career in Essex schools, including work with young offenders.
🌱 July 2023 – Dovestone Conservation
Speakers: John Bird (RSPB) & Dave Speller (United Utilities) shared their efforts in restoring Dovestone’s habitats.
⚖️ June 2023 – Mock Courtroom Drama
Led by two Manchester JPs, members participated in a courtroom role-play, sparking lively discussions.
🧀 May 2023 – Chutneys & Celebrations
Speaker: Melanie Latham, who demonstrated chutney-making followed by a tasting with cheese and biscuits.
🏛️ April 2023 – Manchester Museum Reimagined
Speaker: Dean Whiteside introduced the newly reopened Manchester Museum with exciting new galleries.
February 2023 – Magistrates in the Community
Hillary Clayton JP and Nick Sheardown JP spoke about their role, duties, eligibility, and training, Including the prominence of female magistrates, particularly in family courts.
🧑⚖️ January 2023 – Francis House Children’s Hospice
Speaker: Reverend David Ireland, CEO of Francis House, shared the hospice’s journey from a converted convent to its current state-of-the-art facility.
2022 Highlights
November – Rebecca O’Donnell & Team (O’Donnell Solicitors)
Spoke on wills, power of attorney, wealth protection, and more. Ended with a fun, informative quiz.
October – Father Sumner
Encouraged embracing cultural and religious diversity, shared interfaith choir experiences and collaborations.
September – Babs Bray
Shared decluttering tips from her book The A–Z of Declutter. Included a fun quiz and a video about her daughter’s charity.
August – Baerbel Grayson
Shared vivid stories from growing up in divided Berlin and teaching German in Oldham, mixing insight with humour.
July – Sarah Kelly (GMP Press Officer)
Shared insider perspectives on the Shipman Investigation.
Sarah Higgins (Pelvic Health Physiotherapist) followed with an expert talk on menopause and pelvic health.
June – Platinum Jubilee Party!
A themed evening of fun, quizzes, games, best-dressed competitions, and singing.
May – Misba Khan (Polar Explorer)
Recounted her inspiring North Pole expedition. A film of her journey is anticipated.
April – Brogan Crowley (Olympian)
Offered an inspiring glimpse into her journey to Team GB and the Beijing 2022 Olympics.
February – Mick Sheehan & Liam Mallinson (Home Instead)
Talked compassionately about understanding and supporting people with dementia.
January – Sarah Slater (Hampton Court Palace)
Zoom talk: “Secrets, Scandal and Salacious Gossip of the Royal Court 1660–1830.” Engaging and fun!
2021 Highlights – many events via Zoom
November – Ann King (Herbal Medicine)
Spoke on the folklore and uses of herbs. Members received samples.
(Stepped in for Penny Dean, who tested positive for Covid.)
October – Phaedra Patrick (Author)
Shared her publishing journey and read from The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper.
September – Debbie Abrahams MP
Discussed the challenges and successes of being a woman MP.
August – Hybrid Format:
Zoom: Jane Barnes gave a virtual farm tour and passionate dairy talk.
In-person: Anne Bromley & Turner (Guide Dogs) shared emotional and informative stories.
July – Hayley Scott (Forensics)
Ex-CSI shared crime case stories and demoed fingerprint activities.
June – Stephen Wells (Butlin’s Story)
From Redcoat to showbiz exec—entertaining and nostalgic.
May – Penny Simmonds (Reflexology)
Taught hand reflexology with practice videos and charts.
April – Liza Jones
Delved into the history of underwear—humorous and nostalgic.
February – Chris Duffin (Prison Governor)
Told gripping stories from her book Jail Tales.
January – Sam Durrani (Stuntman)
Gave an insider’s view of life as a professional stuntman.
2020 – 2019 Snapshots
2020 (via Zoom)
Lynn Barrow: Watercolour card-making.
David Allen: Victorian etiquette.
Frances Carlaw: The science and story of pearls.
Andrew Nelson: Women in Art.
Misba Khan: North Pole expedition (first talk).
Sally Mabey: Quiz show contestant tales.
Alison Marsden: Smart gardening tips.
Beth Butcher: Intro to British Sign Language.
2020 – 2019 In person speakers
Judith Barker (TV Actor), Michelle Nye (Chocolatier), Robert Ellams (Magician), Glenn Clarke (Oldham Foodbank), Transport for Greater Manchester, Blood Bikes, Saddleworth Cookery School, Team Kenya, Nurturing Nature, Edwina Currie (MP), Carol Talbot (Author), Suzanne Thorpe (Cake Artist), PC Lee Cullen (GMP), Sara Rowbotham (NHS Whistleblower).