Real life experiences from the past & present and visions for the future.
This is the theme of an event on Saturday 28th April at the Abergavenny Community Centre writes Katrina Gass.
The event will raise the question “What has been women’s pivotal role as farmers & food producers over a century in Monmouthshire – in the Land Army, agricultural organisations and community networks?”
The answer will be given by a stimulating line-up of women who will share their experience; women in their eighties and nineties talking about their lives on farms in rural Monmouthshire, the historic role of the ‘Usk Agricultural College’ in training future farmers, the input of women into agricultural associations, shows, clubs and unions, the experience of women working in agriculture today rearing stock and growing fruit and vegetables.
In addition local researchers will talk about the Women’s Land Army in the county. A panel session will look at contemporary issues relating to sustainable food production and consumption, considering women’s crucial role within this system. The panel will include women with community based experience as well as Sue Pritchard, Director of the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission who also runs an organic livestock farm in Monmouthshire and Pam Mason a public health nutritionist and co-author of a book on sustainable diets. Pam is also a member of the Abergavenny Just Food Group, which stimulates debate on food justice, health and the environment.
A day about agriculture would not be complete without some quality eating so Elaine Blanchard, chef at Abergavenny Community Centre, will be offering a ‘Grown in Monmouthshire Lunch’ and the day will conclude with a WI Tea made by Ab-Fab Women’s Institute Branch.
Crucial details: Saturday 28th April 2018 9:45am – 4:30pm at Abergavenny Community Centre Merthyr Road NP7 5BY
It is essential to register in advance contact katrinagass@yahoo.co.uk or 01873 855760. Pay on the day £8 (includes Lunch and Tea)
The Day is organised in conjunction with the award winning “Monmouthshire Women Making Change” Exhibition at the Abergavenny Museum showing until 7th May.
Katrina Gass
