The SWRI platform party at the opening ceremony.
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South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan gave an address and officially opened the Scottish Women's Rural Institute's National Handcrafts and Housewives Conference in the Concert Hall in Troon that was attended by 360 delegates.
With over 22,000 members the conference was attended by delegates from across Scotland.
Speaking about the event Provost Sloan said: "The Scottish Women's Rural Institute brings together women who are all united by the same commitment to rural life.
"Established in 1917 during the First World War, the organisation is still going strong and has members of all ages who are joined by a common interest in rural pursuits. It is a modern focused organisation that has moved with the times and that is why it continues to grow and prosper.
"The contribution that members make to their local communities is outstanding and I thank each member for the way in which they give up their free time to help others.
"This was the first time that the National Handcrafts and Housewives Conference has been held in South Ayrshire, but I am sure it will not be the last. Delegates were able to see for themselves the great venues and facilities that we have to offer conferences. I know that the conference was a great success and I can assure the SWRI members of a warm South Ayrshire welcome when they return."
Marion Davidson, National Chairman of the Scottish Women's Rural Institutes, said: "I am delighted that the Handcrafts and Housewives Conference has taken place in Troon. South Ayrshire is a particularly scenic and picturesque area of Scotland and our members who had travelled from all parts of Scotland, including Orkney and Shetland thoroughly enjoyed the friendly welcome, the hospitality and the variety of facilities on offer throughout the area.
"South Ayrshire Council and Ayrshire Federation of SWRI have to be congratulated on the excellent assistance with the organisation of this conference and we hope to return sometime in the future."
The conference concentrated on the SWRI's work and interest in crafts, cookery, food, floral art and gardening – all pastimes that are once again very fashionable.
An exhibition was held in the Walker Hall in Troon to showcase the talents of the members. The theme for the conference and exhibition was 'Listen. Learn and Laugh'.
Further information can be obtained about the SWRI by logging on to
www.swri.org.uk/.