Burleydam Women's Institute

The beginning of a New Year for Burleydam W I saw members meeting together for a very successful Annual Dinner at the Combermere Arms. The President, Rosemary, welcomed 13 members and presented the trophy for the most points obtained in the monthly competitions, which was won by Caroline.

February came in with a chill blast of caution from our speakers, Charlotte and Rebecca, who came from West Mercia Police’s Cyber Security Team. They gave us so much information and advice, firstly about what our passwords should be like. No personal details on them, random words joined together, with some upper case, a number or two, and possibly a punctuation mark thrown in!

Next, most systems have antivirus built into them, it is your first line of defence, so we should keep it up to date. Another tip the team suggested was to always update our software when it is offered, that way it keeps us safe. Unless you know where it has come from, think twice before clicking on to attachments, and what personal information you are sharing on social media.

Members found the information and advice really helpful and asked lots of questions, although others, not so computer savvy, felt it went a bit over their heads! However, what ever your skills in this department , it is something that is happening in the world and we need to know as much about how to keep ourselves, and our personal information safe from criminals who are always on the lookout for those people who don’t.

Charlotte and Rebecca were thanked by Karen. In the business there was information from County and Matinal about forthcoming events including the Quiz night at Faddiley, also the Spring Malbank Group meeting in May. Following the loss of our speaker for July, who had double-booked, it was decided to do the Guided Tour of Nantwich , which was cancelled last year due to the weather, and followed by a meal at the Red Cow.

The next meeting is on March 3rd at 7.30pm in the Community Meeting Room when Judy Hunt will speak about how she came from ‘Vet to Vicar’.

Visitors and new members always welcome.