The ladies at the Offords Women's Institute have celebrated 105 years of group's existence in the villages.

The Offords Women's Institute was formed on November 28, 1919 and members decided to celebrate with a party. 

They wanted to engage the wider village residents to share the great achievement so the talented knitters from the Hobby Group started work some months ago on pillar box toppers, one for each village. 

Recommended Reading: Hunts farmer's views on inheritance tax relief cap 

The Offord Cluny post box display consists of a 1919 woman surrounded by pots of jam, cakes and books while the Offord Darcy pillar box displays a modern woman with her knitting surrounded by jam, books and cake.

Postbox toppers were made for both villages.Postbox toppers were made for both villages. (Image: Helen Bosworth)

"The party was held on our meeting night on November 12 and proceedings opened with everyone singing of Jerusalem," said Helen Bosworth.

"A delicious cold buffet with wine was provided and everyone enjoyed the spread, not once but twice for some.

" We were entertained by a singer (father and husband of two members) who sang Elvis numbers and  who was, of course, dressed appropriately."

 Members were all asked to put on their hats and parade around the hall to display them to the party guests.

The winning hat was worn by Gill Apthorpe who had created a flower garden on hers by knitting and crocheting.

Another Member, Sue Dorrington, had made and iced a wonderful cake which Jenny, the president, then cut ceremonially. 

"This is what the WI is all about really – bringing fun, fellowship, education, sharing skills and enjoyment for women everywhere," explained Helen.

"For The Offords WI group to survive for 105 years in our small villages is a fabulous achievement, so we think we must be doing something right. Long may we continue to attract new members to sustain our future in The Offords."

The group meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in Offord Village Hall.  Contact Jenny Murby on: 01480 811474 for further details, or find our programme of events at: www.offordvillagehall.org.uk.