Celebratory tea party marks 100 years of WI

On Wednesday September 16, more than 60 members of the West Chiltington Branch of the Womens’ Institute celebrated the 100th birthday of the W.I with their own ‘Buckingham Palace’ tea party.

There was a truly great atmosphere as members arrived, all beautifully dressed in their finery, to start the celebration off with a reception of ‘bubbly’.

Once together in the Hall decked with the special Centenary individually made bunting, they opened the 100th birthday party with a splendid rendering of ‘Jerusalem’ before they all sat down together to celebrate the occasion.

On beautifully floral decorated tables, there was awaiting an amazing array of delicious finger sandwiches of smoked salmon, ham, egg, etc, etc closely followed by cream and jam scones, as well as Victoria cream sponges, meringues, specially decorated cup cakes, and very many other goodies. The ultimate arrival was the 100th birthday cake.

Following the raffle draw, members were able to browse through all the archives and photographs on display, dating back very many years up to present day, before reluctantly the celebrations came to an end.

Report and pictures contributed by Pat Beard.