MEMBERS of the Women’s Institute from the Forest were among 55 branches celebrating the centenary of the county federation at an exhibition in Gloucester Cathedral.

Mitcheldean WI joined other Gloucestershire Federation branches to mark the 100th anniversary celebrations in Gloucester Cathedral with “a stunning display” entitled ‘What my WI means to me’.

Designed by branch vice-president Anita Miles, members contributed items to depict the village’s links with the Forest and events they had enjoyed during the year.

President Sandra Newman said: “Our members contributed everything from shoes to prosecco.

“We wanted to show the diverse range of things our fun-loving ladies enjoy throughout the year.

“The lovely comments we received from visitors to the cathedral made us very proud of our achievements as a group of ladies living in a Forest village who may never have met if it wasn’t for the WI.”

The display was then transported to Mitcheldean Library where a cheque, raised from selling refreshments and cakes at the village’s annual folk festival, was presented to the library, who were the group’s chosen charity of the year.

Previous beneficiaries have include the Severn Area Rescue Association, the Forest Voluntary Action Forum and The Hope Trust.

Founded in 1919, the Gloucestershire Federation of WIs currently have more than 5,000 members in 139 branches, stretching from the Cotswolds to the Forest of Dean.

Mitcheldean WI meetings are held on the last Wednesday of every month at 7.30pm at Mitcheldean Community Centre.

Everyone is welcome.

For more information about the branch, contact [email protected]