Frieda Cox – Her generosity and community service lives on.
This gathering honours the tradition begun by the much loved Frieda, and sustaining this special occasion in her memory means a great deal to the group
David HazellLions Member
The Lady's enjoy a cream tea
Twice each month, members of the WI in Highworth serve a two course lunch at either The Goldfinger or The Council Rooms for an ever growing number of people who would otherwise be alone. When the initiative began in December 2018, it welcomed around 20 guests; since then, attendance has more than doubled - a clear sign of just how highly valued this service has become.
One regular guest was the late Frieda Cox, a wonderfully generous lady who chose to raise funds on her birthday rather than receive gifts. She donated the proceeds to her favourite charities and also supported a lunch club that now meets annually in a beautiful garden, made possible by the kindness of Sue and Ken Hooper.
In previous years, additional funding for this event has come from local businesses. This year, it was supported by a generous £100 grant from the Highworth and District Lions, allowing the tradition to continue. Thirty guests attended and enjoyed a delightful afternoon and delicious cream tea in that very garden. The day brought perfect weather - no storms, pleasantly warm without being oppressive - so everyone could relax and take in the surroundings.
This gathering honours the tradition begun by the much loved Frieda, and sustaining this special occasion in her memory means a great deal to the group - especially those with limited mobility, who so rarely get to enjoy an outing in such lovely surroundings. Every guest left full of gratitude and praise.
It was a truly heartwarming and memorable day - all made possible by the support we received from Highworth Lions
Frieda Cox (1925 to 2025). Frieda spent many years contributing as an esteemed community leader and volunteer. She served from 1969 for nearly 29 years as a member of the Highworth and District Lions Club, taking on numerous roles including President and Lions District Peace Poster Officer. In the 1985 Queen’s Honours List, she was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) while serving with the St John Ambulance Service, in recognition of exceptional service in first aid and community service - qualities she continued to demonstrate throughout her life. In 2001, she was named Highworth Citizen of the Year in recognition of her local goodwill and volunteerism.
