Tiverton Soroptimist Club celebrates 60 years of empowering women

Members and partners of the Soroptimist International Club of Tiverton have celebrated their 60th charter anniversary.

The event commemorated the club's establishment and honoured the achievements of its founding members.

"Existing Soroptimist members and partners from the South West and Channel gathered at Tiverton Golf Club to celebrate our 60th Soroptimist Charter anniversary," said Daphne Dowsing, Tiverton Soroptimist club president. "We are delighted to have been in existence this long."

The Tiverton Soroptimist Club, founded in 1964, was led by notable local women, including its first president, Mayoress Mrs. Irene Dunsford, and vice-president, Miss Lenorah C. Brown, matron of Tiverton Hospital. These women and their fellow founding members laid the groundwork for the club’s mission of empowerment, advocacy, and community building.

Daphne emphasised the impact of these pioneering women, saying, "Their commitment and drive have shaped the vibrant fabric of our club. Their legacy inspires us to continue making a positive impact in the lives of women and girls in our community."

The celebration included plans to meet at the golf club with past members for a cream tea to share memories and discuss past events, as well as national and international Soroptimist conferences. The event featured memorabilia from the club’s history, highlighting its long-standing dedication to community service and women's empowerment.